Vernon-raised B.C. Lions linebacker emerging as a starter

KAMLOOPS — The B.C. Lions have kicked off training camp ahead of their 69th season in the Canadian Football League (CFL). With the team looking primarily the same from last season, one local linebacker is looking to lead the defence to a grey cup title.

Entering his third CFL season, Ben Hladik is starting to flourish as a full-time linebacker for the Lions. The 24-year-old got a small taste of action in the 2022 season, picking off two passes and a forced fumble as a result.

“It really prepared me coming into this season,” Hladik tells CFJC Today. “We know the defence and know the ins and outs of it so I just have to go out there and play fast and do what I do best and play linebacker.”

Hillside Stadium is where the Lions training camp is held — a familiar place for the 2021 draft pick. He grew up in Vernon and played multiple high school playoff games here in Kamloops. “We used to not have a turf field in Vernon so all the games so we’d play all the schools here in high school. I played a lot of football out here.”

As the 6″4 linebacker continues to take stride, his work ethic is not going unnoticed by his coach and teammates.

“Hard worker, good guy,” said Head Coach and Co-GM Rick Campbell. “The type of guy you would want on your football team and I think he’s gonna continue to grow as he gets more experience.”

“I could tell you a lot about Ben,” said defensive back TJ Lee. “He’s an emerging player on this team and we just can’t wait to bring out more plays and watch his career unfold.”

Hladik will look to help the team on their quest for a seventh Grey Cup title when their regular season kicks off June 8 against the Calgary Stampeders.