By Andrew Shepherd

Regina high school has been pumping out celebrities for years

Feb 4, 2015 | 4:39 PM

For some reason, the majority of the celebrities and professional athletes from Regina all went to the same high school.

Seattle Seahawks punter Jon Ryan, former Roughrider and Indianapolis Colts offensive lineman Ben Heenan, Toronto Maple Leafs forward Tyler Bozak and Canadian rock star Colin James all attended Sheldon-Williams Collegiate.

Could there be something in the water?

“Who knows, we have tonnes of talented people musically and athletically – constantly,” said student Sam Houston.

He’s not sure if it’s a coincidence or if there is something the school has been doing right all these years.

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The school is home to 540 students and they say the small size helps teachers and coaches get to know the students and it allows for more one-on-one time.

Students believe Sheldon-Williams has the best athletics and arts program in Regina and explain there is virtually no barrier between them, unlike the stereotypical “sports jock” versus “music geek” attitude. In fact, the two programs are relatively intertwined. 

“You can be everything in this school. You go from the musical to the football team,” said Allie Somers.

There’s a real sense of optimism and inspiration flowing through the halls those celebrities once walked. Students said they inspire each other with success, sparking a friendly competition that makes everyone better at what they do.

“It’s a good feeling. There’s a sense of pride here at Sheldon when we talk about things like that because we’re all going through the same things that (the celebrities) did,” said Joe Kelsey.

Those celebrities now seem more human to students after learning they were once in the same class rooms

“I guess if they could do it, I guess anyone could do it,” said Sutton Richards.

That’s already happening in her family. Her brother is Addison Richards, a receiver with the Regina Rams. He has been named a Canada West all-star and is expected to be picked in the top rounds of the CFL draft.

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