It was an experience of a lifetime for Humboldt's Connor Guillet.

The former HCI Mohawk suited up for Team Canada on January 31 as the Under-19 team battled the United States in the International Bowl.

"I was pretty surprised and shocked," Guillet said on his initial reaction to being chosen. "I didn't really know how to react to it at first. It was pretty good news."

Pretty good news, indeed, for the current Saskatoon Hilltops defensive end.

The team arrived in Arlington, Texas, a week prior to the game to practice and get acclimated to the Deep South.

"That was probably my favourite part of the trip, learning new things from the coaches, practicing with different players," he noted. "You're going up against these big o-linemen from Ontario and Quebec. It was a pretty good experience."

Connor Guillet (66) along with other members of the Saskatoon Hilltops.

Part of the brief training regiment for the Canadians was adjusting to American rules, which includes four downs, a smaller ball and smaller field.

The one-yard restricted zone on the line of scrimmage in Canada is nuked down south, which Guillet felt was beneficial as a defensive end.

"I definitely enjoyed it a lot more. I found it as more of an advantage because you can engage with the offensive linemen a lot quicker and make a move to get to the quarterback."

Of the many awestruck moments throughout the week was gameday itself.

The International Bowl Series is held inside the historic AT&T Stadium, home of the NFL's Dallas Cowboys.

"Being in one of the largest stadiums in North America and getting to play in there was just an experience alone," Guillet exclaimed. "They have that big jumbotron at centre field and seeing yourself up on it is a crazy experience."

When originally built, the videoboard was the largest of it's kind, spanning a massive 175 feet.

Although the game ended in a 33-0 win for the Americans, Guillet was thankful for the experience.

"Huge thanks to the HCI Mohawks, Mr. Gardiner, Mr. Popoff, everyone at HCI for the backing and sponsorship. It definitely went a long way."

Guillet will enter his third season with the Hilltops this year on the strength of back-to-back national titles.

"I'm feeling pretty good. I'm really looking forward to it. I got a jump on the season here, being able to play football in January, so can't complain about that. Definitely looking forward to it."

The Hilltops begin winter workouts Sunday.

-

To hear more from Guillet, click below.