Bombers Rookie Dante Daniels Turns Childhood Struggles into CFL Dream

Dante Daniels was a sensitive kid who cried easily. His foster family would tease him when he cried.
Now, Daniels is a 272-pound rookie tight end who loves the physicality of football. It helps him deal with his tough childhood.
Daniels said, 'I take my aggression out in football. I'm not afraid to hit someone or protect my teammates. I'll do anything to help my team.'
Daniels had to grow up fast as the third oldest of six children. He had to take care of his younger siblings.
His mother struggled with addiction, and his father left when Daniels was seven. Daniels became the man of the house and even collected cans for food.
After his mother moved, Daniels was homeless and had to sleep on friends' couches. Then, Jen and Joel Fillion took him in and became his guardians.
The Bombers drafted Daniels with the 10th overall pick. This was special for him after all his struggles.
Daniels said, 'I'm grateful to Joel and Jen for helping me. I couldn't have done it without them.'
Coach Mike O'Shea said that players like Daniels inspire the team with their stories of overcoming obstacles.
O'Shea said, 'Hearing about players' struggles can be uplifting and give us more energy.'
The Bombers traded picks to get Daniels. They were very excited to have him on the team.
The team's general manager, Kyle Walters, was so excited that he made a viral video. Daniels is a unique player, standing 6'5" and weighing over 270 pounds.
Daniels said, 'The video made me feel wanted. I want to prove myself and help the team.'
Daniels started his first pro football camp in cold weather. The camp will end on Friday, and the main training camp starts on Sunday.
Coach O'Shea said, 'We drafted Daniels because we saw his potential. Now, we want to see him perform in training camp.'
Quarterback Zach Collaros said that Daniels will help the team's offense, especially with formations.
In the past, the Bombers used a lineman as a blocker in heavy sets. But with Daniels, they can use a true tight end.
Daniels can block and catch passes, which will cause problems for the defense.
Collaros said, 'Having a player like Daniels who can block and catch passes is a big advantage.'
The defense will have to defend the run first, which can create opportunities for the offense.
Daniels likes Winnipeg and is happy to call it his new football home. His life outside football is also going well.
He has reconnected with his biological father, and his family is proud of him. He's not in close contact with his mother, but hopes to have a relationship in the future.
Daniels is married, and his wife will visit him soon. He wants to follow in the footsteps of fellow Windsor native Theo Johnson, who mentors foster children.
Daniels said, 'I want to make the most of my opportunity and help others.'
Just the facts, please.
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