‘Great role model:’ Notre Dame High School anticipating Ogbongbemiga getting NFL call
Posted Apr 29, 2021 2:03 pm.
Last Updated Apr 29, 2021 2:12 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
CALGARY (660 NEWS) — Remember the name Amen Ogbongbemiga.
You’re likely going to hear it called at this year’s NFL draft, which kicks off Thursday night.
Born in Nigeria, Ogbongbemiga moved to Calgary with his family in 2011. He enrolled at Notre Dame High School and the rest, as they say, is history.
“Really quiet and really loved football,” coach and homeroom teacher David Diluzio recalled. “He just had a knack for the game. In Grade 10, he played junior and was a very, very good player. He really took a love to training and working out and had an unbelievable season in Grade 11. He picked up things really quickly as a linebacker and an excellent teammate and team guy.
“Physically, he really developed between Grade 11 and 12.”
LISTEN: 660’s Sandra Prusina talks to Notre Dame head coach David Diluzio about Ogbongbemiga
Together, Ogbongbemiga and Diluzio were part of a 37-game win streak.
And in his final year at Notre Dame, Ogbongbemiga recorded 110 total tackles — earning a first-team all-district nod and was named team MVP.
Diluzio’s phone was ringing off the hook with interest from south of the border, and playing in the NCAA was always a goal for Ogbongbemiga.
“That was a big dream of his,” Diluzio explained. “It was like a waterfall. One team would call, and then another team would call. They were really interested in him.”
He ended up at Oklahoma State University, playing along with fellow Albertan Chuba Hubbard to suit up in the Big 12 Conference. In January, Ogbongbemiga declared for the 2021 NFL draft.
And even if Ogbongbemiga decided not to pursue football, his time at Notre Dame makes his former coach smile.
“Teachers would still remember him as being an outstanding student and really kind,” Diluzio said. “All of the success he’s getting is fantastic.
“He certainly made us look like good coaches from all he’s accomplished. He’s the type of kid that’s just a pleasure and an honour to work with. We’re really excited for this weekend.
“It paves the path for other Canadians and other athletes in Calgary that if you follow your dreams and you do the right things, that you’ll also have a chance to be successful. He’s a great role model for everyone.”
