Meet Nolan Ulm
A Division 1 Receiver From Eastern Washington Eagles Football Team
My name is Nolan Ulm, and I am a current Division 1 receiver on the Eastern Washington Eagles Football Team. I’m proud to represent my team, but even prouder of where I come from. Growing up in Kelowna, playing in BC High school Football, I want to bring my expertise and passion to my home turf, and support young Canadian Athletes and show that I am living proof that you can reach your goals regardless of background or circumstances.
Being raised by a single mother, I wasn’t handed any opportunity – it was earned. Despite me not being highlight talented, or recruited, it was my drive, discipline and dedication to the game that got me to where I am, eventually landing multiple D1 offers. I am proud to be the only athlete to have grown up and graduated in Kelowna, and starting as a Division 1 Player.
Expanding on My Connections and Learning
During my time at Eastern Washington University, I had the incredible opportunity to connect with some of the best coaches and trainers in the field of athletics. These connections have not only enriched my knowledge and skills but have also opened doors for me to bring these tools back to Canada.
A Gifted Strength and Conditioning Coach
One of the most significant blessings of my time at Eastern Washington was the chance to work with former NFL punter TJ Conley as my Strength and Conditioning coach. Under his guidance, I learned extensively about the principles of leadership and how they apply to the field of sports. His expertise in the field of sports training has been invaluable to me.
The Three Levels of Leadership
Another significant influence on my learning experience at Eastern Washington was Mike Nilson, Head of Strength and Conditioning at Gonzaga University. Mike’s insights into leadership and how it drives success in sports have been instrumental in propelling Gonzaga into a national powerhouse in college basketball. I had the opportunity to learn his three levels of leadership, which have been extremely beneficial in my personal and professional growth.
A Coach Who Mentored Me to Success
Pat Mccann, my receiver coach for the first two years, has played an essential role in my athletic journey. He is now the Offensive Coordinator at Fresno State University and is connected with some of the best receiver coaches in the world, such as Charlie Collins, Drew Lieberman, and Keith Williams. His mentorship and guidance have helped me develop as a player and become the athlete I am today.
Providing Opportunities for Canadian Kids
The connections and experiences I have had while at Eastern Washington University have been invaluable. They have given me a unique perspective on leadership, sports training, and mentorship, which I look forward to bringing back to Canada. The lessons I have learned from TJ Conley, Mike Nilson, and Pat Mccann will stay with me throughout my athletic career and beyond, and why I want to share it with young Canadian Athletes. Together, we can pave a brighter path for a successful future.
Jerod Zaleski: The Mentor Who Shaped My Division 1 Football Dream
Looking back on my journey, one name stands out among the rest: Jerod Zaleski. This incredible mentor took me under his wing when I was just a weak-minded, insecure freshman in high school. Over the years, he transformed me into a confident and disciplined athlete, ready to take on the challenges of Division 1 football.
From the very beginning, Jerod believed in my potential. He invested countless hours in my training, guiding me from a meager 245-pound clean to an impressive 305-pound clean by the time I was 18. But Jerod’s teachings transcended the weight room. He imprinted the importance of being committed, not just interested, in achieving my goals. He showed me what it meant to set ambitious goals and relentlessly pursue them. As the old saying goes, “When the student is ready, the teacher appears.” And Jerod was the teacher I desperately needed.
At this upcoming camp, Jerod will be present to share the invaluable lessons he taught me—lessons that instilled in me an ironclad self-discipline. But my story is more than just a tale of mentorship and hard work. It’s also a testament to the power of perseverance and the indomitable spirit of a young mother who refused to give up on her child.
My Mother: The Hero Who “Made It Happen”
My mother was only 18 when she had me. She faced immense challenges: such as being told to terminate her pregnancy, while my father struggled with substance abuse. Despite it all, she packed up our belongings and moved us to Kelowna when I was 3 years old. We lived in low-income housing, with a car that barely started on cold mornings. My mother worked three jobs, determined to create a better life for us. And she succeeded. My mother is my hero, an embodiment of perseverance and grit. Her unwavering commitment to our family is why all proceeds from the camp will go towards charities like Mama’s for Mamas and Karis Society. These organizations provide young mothers with the resources they need to succeed, just like my mother did.
So many people helped us when we were struggling, and now it’s my turn to give back. After all, the true leaders in this world are the mothers who never give up on their children. I would not be where I am today if it weren’t for the grace of others and the unyielding determination of my mother.
