The BC Lions have spent training camp in Kamloops converting local product Jacob Bond from a linebacker to a fullback.

“It was a little bit of a shock,” said Bond when the Lions came to him on the transition.

“I’ve played linebacker my whole life, besides a little bit of receiver in high school.”

Bond saw action on Lions special teams in his rookie season.  The 23 year-old South Kam graduate says the move to the other side of the ball is going well.

“As a fullback in the CFL you’re a bit of hybrid – can do a bit of everything. The playbook is pretty crazy.  I’ve been a defensive guy my whole life so switching over is a challenge. I’ve got good coaches and good vets in the room to help me out. It’s coming along pretty good.”

Head Coach Buck Pierce was one of the voices behind the move this season.

“First of all, (fullbacks) are hard to find,” said the Lions offensive play caller.

“You watch the way that he moves and the way he runs (it’s a fit).  The move from defense to offense is not an easy one. He’s always studying and was open to doing it.”

Bond isn’t alone in the fullbacks room.  Fellow Kamloops product Colton Meikle is also learning the position.

“It’s nice, we get to spend a little bit more time together. We both help each other out and that makes it nice,” claimed Bond.

Both are expected to see action in Saturday’s pre-season opener in Langford against the Edmonton Elks.  The Lions then return next week for the final few days of camp in Kamloops.