In this episode of Morreale and Hitch, your hosts welcome Obie Spanic, a former football player with deep roots in Hamilton and a journey through college football at Weber State. The conversation explores their shared history, the dynamics of growing up in Hamilton, and the challenges faced during their college years, including recruitment and the unique experiences of playing in Utah. They also discuss the evolution of high school football and the transition to professional leagues, highlighting the changes in recruitment practices over the years. You'll hear Obie Spanic reflect on his football journey from Ottawa to Hamilton, sharing insights about his career, the dynamics of team camaraderie, and the pride of playing for his hometown. He also discusses the challenges and transitions after football, including his current work at Dofasco and maintaining connections with former teammates.

Takeaways

• Obie Spanic shares his connection with Rob Hitchcock from high school and college.
• The group discusses their experiences at Weber State and the Canadian football scene.
• Growing up in Hamilton provided a diverse and supportive community for the speakers.
• High school football at Cathedral High School was a powerhouse, with a strong winning record.
• Obie reflects on being a late bloomer in football due to weight restrictions in youth leagues.
• The conversation touches on the financial struggles of college football programs.
• Obie shares his journey to being drafted by the Ottawa Rough Riders.
• The importance of perseverance and self-belief in pursuing sports careers is emphasized. Obie played two years in Ottawa before moving to Hamilton.
• He won a Grey Cup but was on IR during that season.
• The fine line in football can determine game outcomes.
• Obie has transitioned into a career at DeFasco after football.
• He still holds a real estate license and does occasional deals.
• Friendships formed in football are lifelong and meaningful.
• The pride of playing for your hometown team is unmatched.
• Hamilton produced a significant amount of football talent in the past.
• The camaraderie among teammates creates lasting memories.
• Obie enjoys watching games with his family and friends.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Guest Introduction

02:49 - Friendship Origins and College Connections

05:58 - Life in Ogden, Utah

12:00 - Growing Up in Hamilton

17:57 - CFL Aspirations

21:12 - From Ottawa to Hamilton

30:07 - Life After Football: Career Transitions and Reflections

36:23 - The Brotherhood: Team Dynamics and Lasting Friendships

42:15 - Legacy of a Hamiltonian: Pride in Hometown Achievements

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The Ticats Audio Network provides Hamilton Tiger-Cats fans with the most comprehensive, entertaining and informative news and information about their favourite football team. Featuring Steve Milton, Mike Daly, Bubba O’Neil, Courtney Stephen, Simoni Lawrence, Mike Morreale, Rob Hitchcock, Brian Simmons, Louie Butko, Ticats players, coaches and front office personnel, other Canadian Football League experts and many more. Regular shows include Ticats Today, Ticats This Week, Tiger-Cats Game Day, Tiger-Cats Pregame, Tiger-Cats At The Half, Tiger-Cats Postgame, Speaking With The Enemy, Morreale & Hitch, CFL This Week, and so much more. Ticats Audio Network content can be found on the Tiger-Cats YouTube channel, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, at listen.ticats.ca and anywhere else you find podcasts. Please follow, like, leave a review wherever you find our content, and follow the Hamilton Tiger-Cats social media channels to keep up to date with all Ticats Audio Network content.
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