Two senior defensive backs from Bert Church High School are taking the next step in their football careers, signing with British Columbia teams in the Canadian Junior Football League (CJFL)—a 19-team national league known for developing athletes for university and professional levels.
Keagan Barendregt has committed to the Vancouver Island (V.I.) Raiders in Nanaimo, while Keilan Thompson will suit up for the Okanagan Sun in Kelowna. Both teams compete in the B.C. Football Conference, one of three divisions in the CJFL.
Barendregt earned Bert Church’s Defensive Backfield Award in 2023 and was also nominated for Most Valuable Player. He showcased his skills on a larger stage at the 2023 U.S. Army Bowl in Texas and attracted interest from programs in both Canada and the United States.
“Not only have the Raiders been a successful program through the years, but the team and coaches feel like one big family,” said Barendregt. “I feel I can have a big impact and ultimately help the team become champions and open doors for my future.”
Thompson was named Defensive Player of the Year for the Chargers in 2023–24 and was honored with a Rocky View Schools All-Star Award for the 2024–25 season. He was also selected to compete in the 2024 Indigenous Bowl in Soboba, California—an event showcasing top Grade 12 Indigenous players from across North America.
After interest from both U.S. college and junior teams, Thompson chose the reigning B.C. conference champions, the Okanagan Sun.
“I’m very thankful for Sun coach Travis Miller,” Thompson said. “He’s offered me a great opportunity to pursue football at the next level with a fantastic organization. I’m looking forward to being part of the rich history and culture of the Okanagan Sun.”
A proud member of the Okanagan Indian Band, Thompson plans to study engineering at the University of British Columbia Okanagan while playing for the Sun.
Chargers co-head coach Steve Larsen praised both players, calling them “aggressive playmakers” who “play both the run and pass with speed, intensity, and maximum contact.”
“They will excel at the next level,” Larsen added.
Barendregt and Thompson join a growing list of Bert Church alumni in the CJFL. Five others are currently on rosters:
- Aedan Thompson, defensive end (team to be announced)
- Parker McKillop, linebacker, Kamloops Broncos
- Caleb Van Sluys, safety/defensive back, Calgary Colts
- Charlie Wiersma, kicker/punter/wide receiver, Westshore Rebels
“We are proud of the program we have built at Bert Church,” said Larsen. “Every year we have student-athletes recruited for the next level—not only because of their talent but because of their integrity, grit, and perseverance.”
Barendregt and Thompson are set to begin their rookie CJFL seasons on July 19.
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