Cory Mantyka
Athlete (2022)
Football
As a defensive lineman in college, Cory Mantyka had quarterback on his breath.
Then he switched to the other side of the line to play pro. His job: Light ’em up. Keep his offence smoking.
Educated to be a nurse, Mantyka played football for 22 years. He won a provincial high school title with the Saskatoon Bishop James Mahoney Saints. He was in the Prairie Football Conference final in both of his seasons with the Saskatoon Hilltops, winning a league title and finishing second in the Canadian junior championship. He was all conference, all district in two of his three seasons with the University of Jamestown Jimmies in North Dakota.
Early in his CFL career, Mantyka’s quick feet were tapping. The B.C. Lions had him playing special teams, defensive end, and on the offensive line.
He settled in on the Lions’ O-line after his second season. In 9 of his 13 years with B.C., Mantyka was a timber at tackle. He kept his quarterback standing. He cleared the way for his running backs.
Mantyka was in the division final with B.C. five times. In 2004 he was named a West Division all-star, he played in the Grey Cup twice, winning the championship in 1994 and 2000.
Since retiring from the CFL Mantyka has been involved in football as a minor league coach.