By Katie Starr
Norfolk News

Home is never far from Shane Bergman’s mind, even when the offensive lineman for the Calgary Stampeders is playing on football fields far from Norfolk.

Last week, Bergman’s hometown officially congratulated him at council for his Grey Cup victory this past November.

“We would like to recognize your instrumental role in winning the 102nd Grey Cup,” Mayor Charlie Luke said after presenting Bergman with a certificate of achievement. “Teeterville and all of Norfolk County are very proud of you and we are honoured to share this triumph with you and the community.”

Added Coun. Mike Columbus: “Through dedication and perseverance Shane Bergman has grown to become one of Norfolk’s notables, and his contributions to the team game of football serves as an inspiration to all our youth.”

Bergman grew up playing a variety of sports, excelling at the shot put in particular, but it was clear from the moment he picked up a pigskin that football was in his future.

“I knew he was good, he had the size and speed that are God-given gifts, but he also really, really wanted it,” said Bergman’s father, Mike.

“He had the chance to go pro, but a lot of people have that chance and what sets Shane apart is just how hard he works. He hurt a lot, he had a lot of injuries, but he never gave up.”

Bergman helped the Waterford Wolves win their first Haldimand-Norfolk Bowl before going to Western University, where a series of injuries kept him from playing more than one season. He was selected 48th overall by the Calgary Stampeders in the sixth round of the 2013 CFL draft. After a season on the practice roster, he stepped up to a starting role after a teammate’s injury.

The Stampeders beat the Hamilton Tiger-Cats 20-16 to win the Grey Cup this past fall.

“It’s been an incredible ride,” Bergman said, reflecting on his football career to date. “It’s hit me again being here tonight and receiving this honour from the county.”

The Grey Cup will be making its Norfolk appearance in Teeterville April 11, and Bergman himself will start spring training in May. For now, the 6’7 lineman is keeping busy with off-season training four to five times a week, helping his father on the farm and planning a wedding to fiancée and fellow Waterford alum Brianne Littlewood in Delhi next March.

“I’ve got two more years with Calgary and then we’ll see where life takes me,” Bergman said.

“I never thought one day I’d win the Grey Cup, but it was always a shot I knew I’d go for, and I’d like to go for it again.”