Two-time U Sports All-Canadian Josh Rietveld signs with Potsdam Royals

Graphic: Wilfrid Laurier

Canadian offensive lineman Josh Rietveld has signed with the Potsdam Royals of the German Football League (GFL).

The six-foot-three, 323-pound blocker was a two-time OUA all-star and two-time second-team U Sports All-Canadian at guard with the Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks. He played 44 games over five seasons with the team, helping them win the Yates Cup in 2024.

“I’m very grateful for my time at Laurier. From practices to winning a championship, it helped shape me into the player and man I have become,” said Rietveld in a statement.

“I want to thank all of the coaches and teammates who played a role in my development. I’m very excited for this next chapter and Laurier will always have a special place in my heart.”

The native of Brantford, Ont. went unselected in the 2025 CFL Draft. He attended the CFL Invitational Combine in Waterloo, Ont. that year, recording 26 reps of 225 pounds on the bench press, a 5.90-second forty-yard dash, 8.78-second three-cone drill, 5.32-second short shuttle, 21.5-inch vertical jump, and seven-foot, three-inch broad jump.

“We are very proud of Josh and excited that he gets to continue his football journey in Germany,” said Laurier head coach Todd Galloway. “They are getting an incredible offensive lineman, but more importantly, an incredible human being. I think he will make an immediate impact both on the field and in the community.”

The Royals have won three-straight German Bowl championships, posting a 34-2 record over that time. The team will start its 12-week regular-season on May 9 against the Berlin Rebels.