By Jadon Frank

Gradyn Childerhose has had an incredible impact on the Briercrest College basketball team during his four year tenure.

He had an immediate impact upon joining the team at the beginning of the 2008-09 season, ranking second on the team in points per game as a rookie, and hasn’t looked back since. He has consistently improved in every statistical category each season, quietly going about his business to become a complete player on both sides of the court. With six games left in the season, Childerhose currently sits third all-time in the ACAC for blocks in a career with 40, is on pace to rank in the top 15 in career rebounds, and currently is ninth in career scoring with 1270 points and has the potential to crack the top five in ACAC career scoring. Gradyn Childerhose will surely end his career as one the greatest athletes to don Briercrest blue and gold.

This growth as a team player is evidenced by the progression of the program during his tenure beginning with a 1-19 record his rookie season, followed by 3-17, 9-10 and a 13-1 record. The team now ranks first in Canadian Colleges Athletic Association.

The Outlook, SK native’s original decision to come to Briercrest was a simple one.

 “I attended Caronport High School and already loved the community here, so when I was recruited by Briercrest the decision was easy,” Childerhose explained.

After being named an ACAC First Team All-Star in the 2010-11 season the 6’ 6” forward transferred to the University of Regina to compete in Canadian Interuniversity Sport, but decided to return to Briercrest for his fifth and final year of eligibility. Head coach Rod Adrian couldn’t be happier with the decision.

“Gradyn Childerhose has been a welcome return to Briercrest on and off the court, after a year at U of R,” the second year coach said. “Of course, on the court is the most noticeable as he leads the ACAC in scoring average, and is in the top five in field goal percentage, rebounds, and blocks.  He’s making a huge impact on our team and his sure hands and ability to make big plays in the game has contributed to our team’s success.  Off the court his competitive drive is balanced with his great sense of humour as he always has a twinkle in his eye and a funny thing to say.” 

Childerhose recognizes special qualities of this year’s basketball team.

“We have lots of experienced players and our team has an incredible desire to work hard and get better every day,” Childerhose explained. “My biggest strength is my experience and I bring leadership to the team through hard work.”

Coach Adrian agrees.

“One of the things that I appreciate about him the most is his work ethic,” Adrian said. “Gradyn is constantly working on his skills, whether it’s a new move, refining an old one, or helping his teammates improve, he has taken his role as captain seriously and is making himself and others better.  I’m so thankful that he has chosen to end his career as a Clipper and Gradyn is making it a memorable one.”

Childerhose’s father has had the greatest impact on his life.

“My Dad, who has exemplified integrity, honesty, and hard work no matter what, has had the greatest impact on my life,” Childerhose said. “I hope to live up to that someday.”

Childerhose would like to own his own business someday and says that if money wasn’t an option he would be a food critic. He cites Jeremiah 29:11 as being the verse that has had the greatest impact on his life.

“At a time in my life where there are many opportunities as well as uncertainties, I can find peace knowing that God has a plan for me,” Childerhose explained.

For now he is simply focusing on finishing this year strong.

“My goals for this season are to graduate with my BA Humanities and earn a CCAA national title.”