Bateman Football Scores National Recognition with $3,000 Grant
Robert Bateman Secondary’s football program is celebrating a big win off the field after Grade 11 student Caleb Mills’ highlight-reel catch was named the NFL Canada Way to Play High School Play of the Week.
The one-handed grab, which has already been viewed more than one million times on social media, earned Bateman Football a $3,000 equipment grant from Football Canada. TSN also featured the play, calling it Odell Beckham-esque, and giving Bateman students and coaches a moment in the national spotlight.
Despite the attention, Caleb remains grounded.
“I didn’t think it was that crazy — I just tried to stick my hand out and catch it,” he said, when asked about the play.
That humble attitude is exactly what stands out to his coach, and father, David Mills.
“Big plays like that are momentum builders and football is a game of momentum. Anytime you get a play like that, you get the crowd going and the team going. It makes everyone’s confidence levels rise,” said Mills. “Life is expensive right now and football is no exception. So to get some money like that to help purchase a few helmets is great. Some of the things it could go to include uniforms, shoulder pads, helmets and everything.”
For Caleb, it’s not about the viral numbers or the highlight packages; it’s about the game itself.
“It’s kind of cool that we got it on video, that it got some recognition, and that I got to be on TSN,” he shared. “And we get a little bit of money for our program, so that’s always good.”
The recognition reflects not only Caleb’s athleticism but also his passion for football and his dedication to his team. With the support of Football Canada, Bateman Football will be able to invest in new equipment and continue to grow a program where student-athletes can shine, both on the field and in character.
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