2017 Vincent Massey Viking Hall of Fame class
Todd Forbes Player 1998-1999
Todd Forbes played linebacker for the Vikings during the 1998 and 1999 seasons. Todd was a formidable football player and was part of the fierce Viking linebacker corps that led Massey to its first RMFL Championship in 1999. Todd always practiced as hard as he played and his work ethic was second to none. Todd’s teammates knew they could count on him; it was very clear how much he cared for his teammates because he played with so much heart and determination. Todd was a quiet player that let his actions on the field speak for him. Todd’s leadership was instrumental in turning a bunch of inexperienced football players who never played the game during the 1998 season into Massey’s first powerhouse team of 1999. These formative years of the Viking program required players like Todd who instantly bought into the traditions and philosophy of our program. Todd was the very first recipient of the Doug Steeves “All Heart” award the highest honor the team presents. Todd to this day exemplifies Viking football as he lives his life as a man of true character. Todd currently is working as a carpenter and lives in Brandon with his wife Rhonda and two girls Lorissa and Teagan.
TJ Simpson - Player 2005-2008
Quite simply TJ Simpson was one of the most dominate football players to ever graduate from our football program. TJ started at linebacker on the Varsity team when he was in grade 9, a rare accomplishment. TJ could single headedly take over a game by himself, as middle linebacker TJ ruled the defensive side with absolute power wreaking havoc on opposing offensives. TJ’s incredible instincts and knowledge of the game always put him in a position to make a play. TJ also showed tremendous resiliency in his grade 10 year when he injured his ankle in the first game and then returned for the final three games of the season. TJ was a tremendous teammate that drew the best out of the team, he led both on and off the field as a Viking team captain. TJ received the Viking rookie of the year award in 2005; the most outstanding defensive player in 2006 and 2007 and the MVP award in his graduating year. In 2008, Tj helped lead his team to the RMFL 12 man league championship. TJ had many football accomplishments outside of his Viking career including being a member of the Manitoba Provincial team in 2007, 2008 and 2009. He continued his playing days as a member of the Windsor Lancers and Westman Wolverines. TJ currently lives in Brandon and works as a Financial Analyst for the City of Brandon. TJ is still actively involved with football as a volunteer for the WYFA and Defensive Coordinator for the Major Wolverines.
Gavin Young - Player 1999 - 2002 Coach 2003-Present
Gavin was initially reluctant to play football and it was his mother that actually convinced Gavin to give it a try. Gavin quickly asserted himself on the football field and thrived early on at the linebacker position showing tremendous grit and tenacity. Gavin made his greatest impact in 2001 when he switched to the offensive side of the ball to play full back. Gavin did all of the thankless jobs required in order for the team to be successful. He was an excellent blocker and had tremendous hands coming out of the backfield. Gavin was also responsible for being the personally bodyguard of quarterback Tim Feasby and Gavin was integral in leading the team that year to a perfect 10-0 record. Gavin’s efforts that year led the coaches to create a new award to honor Gavin’s selfless efforts and he was awarded the first ever “True Grit” award. Gavin’s outgoing and friendly attitude was appreciated by his teammates as he always made the mood light and enjoyable.
The Brandon football community is thankful that Gavin’s mom convinced him to play because since then he has given so much back to the sport of football in Brandon. Gavin has coached and is currently coaching for many different programs including: Vincent Massey Vikings (Currently) , Westman Youth Football League (currently), BYFA Wolverines program (currently) Westman U-16 provincial team, and he was a member of the coaching staff that captured the 6 Nations Cup national championship. Gavin was honored for his commitment to coaching in 2012 when he was named the Manitoba Aboriginal coach of the year. Gavin currently works at Vincent Massey High School as the Home School Liaison and you can often find him at Sushi Hut in his spare time.
The Brandon football community is thankful that Gavin’s mom convinced him to play because since then he has given so much back to the sport of football in Brandon. Gavin has coached and is currently coaching for many different programs including: Vincent Massey Vikings (Currently) , Westman Youth Football League (currently), BYFA Wolverines program (currently) Westman U-16 provincial team, and he was a member of the coaching staff that captured the 6 Nations Cup national championship. Gavin was honored for his commitment to coaching in 2012 when he was named the Manitoba Aboriginal coach of the year. Gavin currently works at Vincent Massey High School as the Home School Liaison and you can often find him at Sushi Hut in his spare time.