Okanagan Sun head coach Shane Beatty has secured what he considers a major piece of his 2014 defense as linebacker Michael Desjarlais has committed to the Sun.

The 19 year old Desjarlais is a graduate of Miller High School in Regina but more recently was a key member of the University of Saskatchewan linebacker core last season.

Shane Beatty made no secret of his excitement in securing the services of Desjarlais;

“He’s a real high motor kid, real aggressive and a vicious tackler. He’s experienced so will bring some leadership to the group through his play at Sam. He’s a quiet young man so he’s not going to be vocal in the locker room but everyone will know he’s on the field, he’s going to make plays.”

Desjarlais brought major credentials to the U of S after being named the Regina High School Defensive Player of the Year in his senior season and didn’t disappoint once entering the university ranks. He was named the University of Saskatchewan athlete of the week for his efforts in last season’s 28-5 win over the UBC T-Birds.

The 6’1, 212 pounder on his decision to wear Sun colors this season;

“I’m looking forward to it. When I decided to leave university I knew I wasn’t going to stay in Regina. Coach (Shane Beatty) is an easy guy to believe in. I like what he says, what he wants to do and he really wanted me. I like Kelowna, it’s a beautiful city. I know the team has been successful too so that’s good.”

An honors student in high school, Desjarlais credits football with making him care about his studies in high school. He says he plans on pursuing business but is unsure at this point if he will attend Okanagan College through the Sun scholarship program or concentrate strictly on football for the season.

“It (football) was why I cared about, got interested in school when I was younger. You had to maintain grades to play. It made me a better person, made me who I am.

“I want to pursue business, we will see if I go to school this fall or wait until after the season. I have some time to make that decision yet.”

The move to strong side linebacker will mean a slight position switch for Desjarlais who played defensive end and middle linebacker in high school before concentrating on middle linebacker at the U of S.

It’s not something he is concerned about however.

“No, I’ll play anywhere. If that’s where the coach needs me I’m happy there. It’s about what makes the team better.”

Desjarlais and his new teammates will be on the Sun field for spring camp May 30.