It’s a name fans are going to want to learn – literally.

Luther Hakunavanhu.

(For those playing along at home, it’s pronounced huh-KOO-nuh-VAWN-oo)

The Stampeders fifth-round draft choice in 2021 has been making quite the impression at his first CFL training camp.

Even catching the eye of quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell.

“First of all, he’s a big receiver,” noted Mitchell. “He’s one of those guys that just jumps off the page. He can move, he can go up and get the ball, he looks impressive to me.”

Even head coach Dave Dickenson noticed some “nice plays and some nice catches” from Hakunavanhu throughout camp.

“I know there’s a lot of people that see a lot of potential in me,” said the rookie receiver. “What I can focus on right now is being better than the last play and going forward from there; one day at a time.”

For Hakunavanhu, he’s been focusing particularly on the mental aspect of his game.

“Once I get comfortable and know what I’m doing, everything else comes naturally for me,” he said. “I end up running better routes and feeling more confident. So it’s just getting into that playbook and knowing the small details. (Then) letting the athletic side of me take over.”

The 6-foot-4 wideout from York University recorded 69 receptions for 951 yards and six touchdowns during his three seasons with the Lions.

Although his numbers led all York receivers, he still had higher aspirations.

“After the season I had in 2019, I was expecting a lot more from myself, so that really was my drive,” explained Hakunavanhu.

“When COVID hit, I just (started) training through that, trying to be a better version of myself.”

In his efforts to improve his game, Hakunavanhu has capitalized on taking guidance from the veterans surrounding him.

“All the guys that have been here before: Richie (Sindani), Bo (Levi Mitchell), KJ (Kamar Jorden), Hergy (Mayala),” said Hakunavanhu. “I’m asking anyone I can questions … What I can change, what they saw that I could fix and certain ways to run routes. They’ve been through this before.”

Richie Sindani, in particular, has been keen to guide his ‘mini me’.

“I’m trying to mentor him right now, I think he has the same upbringing into the system right now that I do, he has the same body type if you look at his arms and legs,” Sindani explained. “He’s catching the ball well, he’s running good routes, he’s really asking questions, and he’s trying to stay on top of stuff… Right now, Luther looks like he’s doing the right things to make that next step from York to (the Stampeders).”

Another key staple in Hakunavanhu’s success at camp has been his pre-established relationship with fellow York alum Colton Hunchak.

“Having someone like Colton here has definitely helped,” Hakunavanhu said. “We’ve (played) together, and having him be available to answer my questions helps out a lot.”

Although he hails from that city in the northern part of Alberta, he’s eager to don the red and white for the Stamps in their 75th anniversary season.

“I’m definitely ready,” he chuckled, “(I’m) more than grateful for the opportunity, and definitely ready to represent Calgary.”