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  • Calgary Stampeders Sign Veteran DL Cedric Wilcots II and One Other Player

    Calgary Stampeders Sign Veteran DL Cedric Wilcots II and One Other Player

    The Calgary Stampeders have signed two players ahead of the 2025 season, American defensive lineman Cedric Wilcots II and offensive lineman Khadere Kounta. Both bring something different to the table that can help address some of the team’s needs after a tough 2024.

    Cedric Wilcots II: A Veteran Presence on Defense

    Cedric Wilcots II, a 6’3, 249 lbs defensive lineman from Dallas, Texas, comes to the Stampeders from the Houston Roughnecks in the UFL. He didn’t see any regular season action with the Roughnecks but his CFL experience speaks for itself.

    Wilcots started his pro career with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in 2022, playing 10 games and recording 4 defensive tackles, 1 sack and 1 forced fumble. He was then traded to the Hamilton Tiger-Cats for defensive back Alden Darby Jr. He dressed for 4 games with the Ticats but didn’t register any stats.

    Collegiately, Wilcots made a name for himself at New Mexico State where he played 47 games in his career. His best season was 109 total tackles, 30 tackles for loss, 19.5 sacks, 4 pass knockdowns and 4 forced fumbles. He was a first-team All-Sun Belt Conference as a redshirt sophomore showing he can disrupt offenses and make plays in big moments.

    At 27 years old, Wilcots brings veteran leadership and versatility to the Stampeders defensive line. His CFL experience should allow him to step in right away.

    Khadere Kounta: Strengthening the Offensive Line

    Khadere Kounta joins Wilcots. 6’5 305 lbs OL from Brooklyn, NY. Kounta was at UCLA in 2023 where he dressed for 10 games in a depth role. Before UCLA he was at Old Dominion University where he was a starter.

    At Old Dominion, he played 33 games, 27 starts. Most of those starts were at left tackle. He’s big and athletic and will be a big help to the Stampeders OL which will need to protect the quarterback and open up running lanes in 2025.

    Why These Signings Matter for the Stampeders?

    After finishing 5-12-1 and missing the playoffs for the first time since 2004, the Stampeders are looking to rebound in 2025. Missing the postseason was a wake up call, and these signings show the team is ready to rebuild and compete.

    Wilcots brings depth and playmaking ability to the defensive line, and Kounta brings size and experience to an offensive line that struggled last year. Together, they are a step towards stabilizing two key positions on the roster.

    2025 Season Ahead

    The Stampeders open the 2025 season at home against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats on Saturday, June 7, at 7:00 p.m. EDT. Fans will want to see how Wilcots and Kounta fit in and if these moves can turn the team around.

  • Roughriders Secure Star Lineman Ferland with Two-Year Extension

    Roughriders Secure Star Lineman Ferland with Two-Year Extension

    The Saskatchewan Roughriders have just secured a major piece of their future. Logan Ferland—the Canadian offensive lineman who’s been a rock for that unit—has signed a two-year contract extension. That deal puts him in Regina through the 2027 season. For fans of the team, that’s a big win. It means they get to keep a cornerstone of their offense for years to come.

    Why Logan Ferland Is a Game-Changer for the Roughriders?

    Standing at six-foot-four and weighing 310 pounds, Ferland is a force to be reckoned with. Last season, he earned his place as a CFL all-star and won the West Division’s Outstanding Offensive Lineman award. He was the one who helped steady the ship when injuries forced 12 different players into the rotation.

    Ferland played in all 18 regular-season games and both playoff contests. That kind of durability and reliability is hard to find. He can play multiple positions—right guard, right tackle and center—making him an incredibly valuable asset to the team. That versatility has been a game-changer for the Roughriders.

    How Ferland Elevated the Roughriders’ Offense?

    Ferland’s leadership and skill were the constants that kept Saskatchewan’s line together. Despite the shuffling along the offensive line, that stability paid off. The Roughriders allowed just 35 sacks—the fewest of any playoff-bound team. That protection allowed Ferland’s offense to really take off.

    At the top of the West Division playoff teams in points scored was Saskatchewan—with 453 points. That’s a testament to the offense Ferland helped create. They scored 45 offensive touchdowns-45!-with 27 of those coming through the air. That kind of production is a direct result of Ferland’s ability to both protect the quarterback and open up the field.

    That’s reflected in the team’s passer efficiency rating of 98.1-the highest among playoff contenders in the division. Ferland’s efforts were the driving force behind that high-powered offense.

    A Homegrown Hero Stays Home

    For Ferland, Saskatchewan is home. From Melfort, Sask. he’s a hometown hero who has delivered on the field. By signing him to an extension the Riders are investing in a player who is both talented and loyal.

    “Logan is a big piece of our O-line and a leader in our locker room,” said Roughriders GM Randy Ambrosie. “He’s irreplaceable. We’re glad to have him for 2027.”

  • Will Ed Hervey’s Superstar Talk Harm the Edmonton Elks? Darian Durant Thinks So

    Will Ed Hervey’s Superstar Talk Harm the Edmonton Elks? Darian Durant Thinks So

    Saskatchewan Roughriders legend Darian Durant has chimed in on the comments made by Edmonton Elks’ general manager Ed Hervey about the lack of superstar players in the CFL. While Durant agrees with Hervey, he thinks the comments were out of line and will have repercussions for the Elks.

    Hervey’s “No Superstar” Claim Causes Backlash

    Ed Hervey’s claim the CFL has no superstar players got hammered by fans and former players. On The Jason Gregor Show , Hervey explained what he means by superstar.

    “A superstar for me was Muhammad Ali and Michael Jordan, that’s all. That’s really it. Guys that are known globally,” he said.

    He later clarified his comments, saying he’s proud of the league and its players.

    “I don’t think our league doesn’t have good players. I think our league has great players. I think we have players who play at a high level and that’s why I’m very proud of this league,” Hervey said.

    But the damage may have already been done, especially for a team like the Edmonton Elks trying to rebuild and attract top talent.

    Durant’s Take: Why Hervey’s Words Matter

    As a former CFL quarterback with over 10 years of experience, Darian Durant knows the ins and outs of Hervey’s argument. He agrees the league hasn’t seen a generational player since legends like Anthony Calvillo or Ricky Ray. But Durant still didn’t like Hervey’s comments.

    “You don’t want to step on the league that gives you your paycheque. I don’t like it — it was nasty,” Durant told The SportsCage.

    Durant said such comments can make players hesitant to sign or re-sign with the Elks.

    What Hervey’s Comments Mean for the Elks

    Lack of Organizational Support

    For players entering free agency or considering the Elks, Hervey’s comments might be a red flag. Durant explained how these comments make players question if they’ll have the support they need to succeed in Edmonton.

    “It’s hard for guys who are entering that organization to really feel like you have the support and backing of the top guys,” Durant said.

    “When you say that, it definitely makes guys think twice about wanting to stay or wanting to start their career in that place.”

    Perception of Value

    Durant also pointed out how Hervey’s comments could impact contract talks. Players looking for top dollar might not want to join a team with a GM who downplays the talent in the league.

    “As an athlete, let’s say you’re in your 4th, 5th year in the league, now you’re entering a situation where it’s time to get paid — really get paid — and you want to get paid like the top guys. Think about the Edmonton Elks and Ed Hervey, what he said,” Durant asked.

    “Are you going to be like: ‘Should I even go there where a GM says that?’ Do you even want to have a guy like that as your boss?”

    Loyalty and Confidence in Players

    Durant said even if a team is bad, the leadership should show confidence and loyalty to their players. By saying the league is weak, Hervey is alienating current and future players.

    “You could have the worst team in the world but you’re supposed to go out in the media and say how good you are and say how you believe in your players,” Durant said.

    “If a GM says that, as an athlete, you think twice about it.”

    The Bigger Picture: CFL’s Image and Future

    Hervey’s comments were probably meant to be realistic but they exposed a bigger problem: the CFL can’t seem to make its stars household names. Durant’s rant is a reminder that public opinion matters – not just for individual teams but for the league itself.

    For the Edmonton Elks, rebuilding trust with players and fans will take more than words. It will take actions that show they believe in the team and respect the league’s athletes.

  • Ed Hervey Drops Bombshell: ‘I Don’t Know Any Superstar Players in the CFL’

    Ed Hervey Drops Bombshell: ‘I Don’t Know Any Superstar Players in the CFL’

    Edmonton Elks general manager Ed Hervey didn’t sugarcoat his response to Geno Lewis’ public comments about being ignored during free agency.

    “I’m not going to go on a rant; I’ll answer you as quick as I can,” Hervey said. “I spoke to his agent, that was it. I was focused on the guys we wanted in Edmonton. That’s it.”

    Hervey said Lewis plays for another team now and should be happy where he landed. “To me, if I were in his shoes, I’d move on. That’s what I’ve done,” he added.

    “I Don’t Know Any Superstar Players in the CFL”

    Hervey’s comments took a weird turn when he said there’s no superstar players in the CFL.

    “I don’t know any superstar players in the CFL,” he said. “If guys feel they’re a superstar, great. But I’m not into guys’ feelings about themselves. That’s not where I go.”

    This came after Lewis said he considers himself a “superstar player in the league.” The three-time all-star was disappointed in Hervey’s lack of communication, calling it “not smart” for an organization to just ignore him so publicly.

    Why Hervey Moved On Without Lewis?

    Hervey said the Elks had other priorities in free agency. He said the team decided to use their cap space from Lewis’ release towards other positions, to strengthen the roster in areas they felt were more important.

    “The players we wanted, we have. That’s really it,” Hervey said. “We’re a team that wanted to go in a different direction. We had pressing needs elsewhere.”

    He also said he’s happy with the current roster, “Looking at who we brought in, there’s not a player on our list that we’d want to move on from.”

    Geno Lewis’ Reaction to Hervey’s Comments

    Lewis, now with the Ottawa Redblacks, said he was surprised by Hervey’s comments. The 31-year-old receiver signed a two-year deal worth $223,000 for 2025 – a $97,000 pay cut from his previous deal with Edmonton.“Not smart of him not to even talk to me,” Lewis said. “But I’m happy here. They wanted me and I’m ready to go.”

  • Blue Bombers Yet to Discuss Contract Extension with Zach Collaros

    Blue Bombers Yet to Discuss Contract Extension with Zach Collaros

    According to Blue Bombers GM Kyle Walters, there’s been no talk of extending Zach Collaros’ contract. The franchise quarterback signed a 3 year deal in October 2022 that runs until the end of the 2025 season. The $600,000 a year deal was worth $1.8 million in total.

    That was just before Collaros led the Bombers to another great season and won his second consecutive MOP. Now 36, Collaros has been the key to the Bombers’ success, leading the team to five straight Grey Cup appearances and two championships in 2019 and 2021.

    “We don’t do too many extensions before the season,” Walters said. “We’ll deal with all that stuff post-season, as we normally do.”

    It’s clear the Blue Bombers are sticking to their script when it comes to the cap. For now fans will just have to wait until after the 2025 season to see if Collaros gets an extension or if this is his last ride with the team.

    Collaros’ Stellar Career with the Blue Bombers

    He’s 35, but Collaros is still delivering. In 2024 he started all 18 regular season games and both playoff games for Winnipeg. His 4,336 passing yards were second in the CFL and he completed 70.1% of his passes, 17 TDs to 15 INTs.

    Even with all the on-field success, Collaros has admitted to thinking about retirement. But he hasn’t put a timeline on it.

    “I can’t speak for Zach as to how long he wants to play,” Walters said. “I know he loves football, loves to compete and generally guys like that just want to keep playing until they can’t play anymore.”

    For now, Collaros seems focused on one last big hurrah: winning a Grey Cup on home turf. Winnipeg will host the Grey Cup on November 16 and Collaros will be right in the middle of it.

    Why No Extension Talks Yet?

    General manager Kyle Walters says the Blue Bombers don’t do contract extensions during the season because of salary cap reasons.

    “That’s generally the way we do… with the cap and the way things are, we don’t do too many extensions leading into the season,” Walters said. “We’ll deal with all that sort of stuff post season, as we normally do.”

    This isn’t new for the Blue Bombers. In January 2022, Collaros became the CFL’s highest paid player after signing a one year extension for $550,000. Two months after winning the 2019 Grey Cup, he signed a two year deal that kept him in Winnipeg through 2021.

    Collaros’ Future: Retirement or Another Run?

    At 36 years old, Collaros is getting close to the end of his playing days. He hasn’t put a retirement date on it but he has started thinking about life after football.

    “I can’t speak for Zach on how long he wants to keep playing,” Walters said. “I know he loves football, loves to compete, and generally guys like that just want to keep playing and playing until they’re told they can’t play anymore.”

    Collaros is focused on 2025 for now, and leading the Blue Bombers to a Grey Cup on home turf. Winnipeg will host the Grey Cup on Sunday, November 16, 2025 so that’s extra motivation for the veteran QB.

    What’s Next for Collaros and the Blue Bombers?

    If Walters is right, Collaros’ future with the Blue Bombers won’t be decided until after 2025. For now the team is focused on the upcoming season and making another deep run.

    Collaros’ legacy in Winnipeg is already locked in, but another Grey Cup would solidify him as one of the all-time greats. Whether this is the end or the start of something new remains to be seen.

  • CFL News: Dakota Prukop Joins Calgary Stampeders as Coach

    CFL News: Dakota Prukop Joins Calgary Stampeders as Coach

    The Calgary Stampeders have announced the hiring of Dakota Prukop as their new quarterbacks coach. Prukop, who just retired after a 7 year playing career in the CFL, takes over the role previously held by Beau Baldwin, the former Eastern Washington head coach. This is a big new chapter for Prukop, who brings playing experience and a deep understanding of the game to the coaching role.

    A Seamless Transition to Coaching

    Prukop’s path to the Stampeders coaching staff was a natural one after his impressive CFL career. He played for the Toronto Argonauts, Winnipeg Blue Bombers and Edmonton Elks, showing off his skills as a passer and as a rusher. He was a leader on the field and that leadership quality will serve him well in this coaching role.

    Interestingly, Prukop’s connection to the Stampeders dates back to 2021 when he attended their training camp. Although it was a short stay, it made a lasting impression.

    “We only had a short time together when Dakota was at our camp but he impressed me with his work ethic and knowledge of the game,” said Dave Dickenson, Stampeders GM and head coach. “I know he’ll be great in our QB room and we look forward to seeing him develop in this new role.”

    For Prukop, it’s a new chapter.

    “My family and I are excited to start this new chapter with the Stampeders,” Prukop said. “Looking forward to working with Dave, Pat DelMonaco and the entire Stamps organization. Many of the CFL’s best coaches have learned here and I feel lucky to have this opportunity.”

    Prukop’s Player to Coach Journey

    Dakota Prukop’s football career has been pretty cool. After a great college career and a successful stint in the CFL, he’s making the transition to the sidelines.

    CFL Highlights

    In his 7 seasons in the CFL, Prukop played in 67 regular season games. In 2024, his final year as a player, he led the Edmonton Elks with 9 rushing touchdowns, showing he was a dual threat. He was a valuable asset to every team he played for because he could contribute through the air and on the ground.

    College Highlights

    Before the CFL, Prukop had a great college career. After 3 great years at Montana State where he completed 387 of 607 passes for 5,584 yards, 46 touchdowns and 16 interceptions, he transferred to Oregon for his senior season in 2016. At Oregon he completed 94 of 143 passes for 1,214 yards, 8 touchdowns and 2 interceptions and added 171 rushing yards and 2 scores.

    Prukop’s college career earned him 2nd team All-Big Sky Conference in 2015 and 3rd team in 2014. He’ll bring his experience and leadership to the sidelines as a coach.

    Why the Stampeders chose Prukop

    Stamps are committed to developing young talent within the organization. Having seen his work ethic and football IQ up close during training camp, they think Prukop can help their QBs.

    “Dakota’s knowledge of the game and ability to connect with players makes him a great fit for this role,” Dickenson said. “He can relate to our QuarterBacks and help them get better.”

    FAQs About Dakota Prukop’s Hiring

    Who is Dakota Prukop?

    Dakota Prukop is a former CFL quarterback who played 7 seasons with the Toronto Argonauts, Winnipeg Blue Bombers and Edmonton Elks. He’s now the quarterbacks coach with the Calgary Stampeders.

    Why did the Stampeders hire Dakota Prukop?

    The Stampeders liked Prukop’s work ethic, football knowledge and leadership during his short time with the team in 2021 training camp.

    Which CFL teams did Prukop play for?

    Prukop played for the Toronto Argonauts, Winnipeg Blue Bombers and Edmonton Elks in the CFL.

    What are some of Prukop’s accolades?

    In 2024, Prukop led the Edmonton Elks with 9 rushing touchdowns. In college he played at Montana State and Oregon and was an All-Big Sky Conference selection and a dual threat.

  • Team Saskatchewan Rocks Roughriders Gloves at the Brier: Fans Love It!

    Team Saskatchewan Rocks Roughriders Gloves at the Brier: Fans Love It!

    The 2025 Brier in Kelowna, B.C. has brought a surprise crossover between curling and Canadian football. Two members of Mike McEwen’s Saskatchewan-based rink—Kevin Marsh (second) and his twin brother Dan (lead)—are wearing Saskatchewan Roughriders gloves on the ice. This is huge and has the CFL fans in a tizzy.

    How It All Started: From Mosaic Stadium to the Ice

    The Marsh brothers’ love for Roughriders gloves started last year at the Brier in Regina. While touring Mosaic Stadium they stumbled upon the team’s equipment area and saw the gloves used by the CFL players.

    “We saw them there (in the equipment area) and we were like, ‘These would work really well for sweeping,’” Kevin Marsh told. “They work really well in terms of getting a good grip on the broom handle.”

    Gordy Gilroy, the Saskatchewan Roughriders’ equipment manager, hooked them up with more pairs for this year. They are a perfect fit for curling, sticky and grippy for sweeping.

    Why Roughriders Gloves Work for Curling?

    Curling Canada doesn’t have any rules on gloves so players can use what they want. Many curlers go bare handed or less sticky gloves but the Marsh boys swear by the Roughriders receiver gloves.

    “For me, it’s about maximizing grip strength on the broom,” Kevin explained. “You don’t want the hand moving around on the broom because the whole idea of sweeping is getting the maximum pressure down to be the most effective sweeper.”

    Other curlers use receiver gloves but the Marsh brothers are one of the few who proudly wear gloves branded to a specific CFL team. Their choice is not just practical but also Saskatchewan pride.

    Saskatchewan Pride: Born and Raised Riders Fans

    While Kevin Marsh isn’t a diehard CFL fan, being a Roughriders fan is in his blood since he was born and raised in Saskatchewan.

    “It’s hard not to follow the Riders,” Marsh said. “I know they’ve been struggling a bit lately—they haven’t won the Grey Cup in a long time—but we’re definitely following along when they’re playing well.”

    Despite their loyalty to the green and white, converting skip Mike McEwen to a Roughriders fan is still a work in progress.

    “This is his second year playing out of Sask so we’re really trying to convert him to be more of a Sask guy,” Marsh joked. “He says he’s getting used to the green colour now but I think he’s still a Bombers fan unfortunately. We’ll have to keep working on that.”

    From Football Dreams to Curling Glory

    The Marsh twins never played organized football growing up but they weren’t total strangers to the sport. Their high school coach once tried to recruit them but at “maybe 100 pounds soaking wet” they opted for less physical activities like curling instead.

    They’re not the only Brier participants with football backgrounds. Three players at this year’s tournament have gridiron experience:

    • Ben Hebert and Marc Kennedy , both curling under Brad Jacobs out of Alberta, played quarterback in the CJFL for the Regina Thunder and Edmonton Wildcats, respectively.
    • Catlin Schneider , formerly part of McEwen’s rink and now playing third for Reid Carruthers, was a U Sports receiver for the Regina Rams, recording 38 career catches for 373 yards and one touchdown.

    Team Saskatchewan’s Hot Start

    McEwen’s team is 4-0 at the 2025 Brier and sitting top of Pool B. They have PEI, Nova Scotia, Ontario and Quebec so far and are in great position to grab one of the three playoff spots.

    “We knew it was gonna be tough to top last year when we were the home team in Regina,” said Marsh. “The fans were really behind us and we had a great week there, but Kelowna is doing a great job this year too.”

    With so many Saskatchewan fans in Kelowna to cheer on the team, the atmosphere has been great. Add in the weather and it’s no wonder Team Saskatchewan is on fire.

  • Wynton McManis Sets New Standard for CFL Linebackers

    Wynton McManis Sets New Standard for CFL Linebackers

    Wynton McManis, aka “Mr. Great Business,” has done it again. The Toronto Argonauts star has signed a one-year deal worth $231,500 making him the highest paid linebacker in the CFL for the third straight year. This move locks him in as a defensive leader and raises the bar for future negotiations across the league.

    How McManis Became the Highest Paid Linebacker?

    McManis and his agent Christina Phillips played his contract extension right before the CFL free agent window opened. With multiple teams lining up to pursue him, the Argos had to up the offer.

    “In a lot of ways I play the game to help raise the bar,” McManis said. “I think a lot of linebackers in this league deserve a payday. You could say we control the field, we’re all over the place, we’re like the quarterback on the other side of the ball.”

    Why Linebackers Deserve More

    McManis thinks linebackers bring so much to the game, they’re the heartbeat of the defence.

    “A lot of guys in this league are worth big paydays and pushing that market,” he said. “Knowing what we bring to the league as far as fan bases and excitement to the game, expanding the trajectory of where we want the league to go and how we want to value our players.”

    A three-time Grey Cup champion and two-time CFL all-star, McManis has proven himself on the field. His leadership and play have been the key to Toronto’s success recently, including their Grey Cup win over the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the 111th Grey Cup.

    Leadership Beyond the Numbers

    With the Argonauts as defending champions heading into the 2025 season, McManis knows the pressure is on. He says it’s all about focus and raising the bar.

    “You know what it takes to be great, what it takes to get the job done and achieve your goal—continue that, and it’ll never stop,” McManis said. “Once you’ve achieved it, you understand that it takes that, and now it takes even more.”

    Despite losing defensive linemen like Ralph Holley, Folarin Orimolade, Jake Ceresna and Robbie Smith to other teams, McManis isn’t worried.

    “I’m not nervous. I’m not scared a bit, honestly,” he said. “We’ve got some young guys. Jordan Williams is still here. Fresh legs, big body, great mobility, knows the game and wants to get better.”

    Williams showed promise in his rookie season with 12 tackles and 2 sacks in 9 games, while Derek Parrish had 21 tackles and 6 sacks in 2024. Veteran signings like Bryan Cox Jr., Anthony Lanier, Celestin Haba and DeMarcus Christmas add to the defensive line.

    Mentorship and Team Unity

    McManis loves mentoring younger players and building a culture of growth within the team.

    “It’s going to take everybody,” he said. “Guys coming in with the attitude I want to learn and I want to get better, I think that’s the biggest thing. I’m not going to hold back anything.”

    He added, “Anything I have to teach, anything I have to give or say, I give that. Now it’s up to you to receive it. Year in and year out we’ve had guys come in that are willing to learn. It’s my job to make sure that keeps happening and we’ll do great.”

  • CFL Mentorship Program Helps Castillo Plan for Life Beyond the Gridiron

    CFL Mentorship Program Helps Castillo Plan for Life Beyond the Gridiron

    Winnipeg Blue Bombers kicker Sergio Castillo is used to being in the spotlight, but this week he was on the other side of the camera. As part of the CFL Mentorship Program, Castillo and other players visited TSN headquarters in Toronto and met with broadcasting stars like Kate Beirness and Rod Smith. For Castillo, it was a dose of inspiration and excitement as he moves towards life after football.

    What is the CFL Mentorship Program?

    The CFL Mentorship Program, now in its 4th year, is a partnership between the CFL and the CFLPA. It provides players with professional development opportunities and a behind the scenes look at the business of football. This year’s participants were Castillo, Theo Grant (Montreal Alouettes), Jovan Santos-Knox (Ottawa Redblacks), Micah Teitz (Calgary Stampeders), and retired players Charlie Power and Elliott Brown.

    The program includes workshops, networking and hands on experience, such as assisting with the CFL Invitational Combine. It’s designed to help players transition into post football careers.

    Castillo’s Starstruck Moment at TSN

    For Castillo, the highlight of the program was TSN, where he met Kate Beirness and Rod Smith.

    “I got to meet Kate, which I was starstruck,” Castillo said. “And then I met Rod Smith as well. They were amazing. They answered all our questions.”

    Castillo, who is working on his Master’s in sports management, is looking at broadcasting, social media or partnerships after football. He’s a natural for roles that keep him close to the game.

    Theo Grant’s Two Passions: Football and Engineering

    While Castillo is nearing the end of his career, Theo Grant, 24, offensive lineman for the Montreal Alouettes, is just getting started. But Grant is already planning for the future.

    A biomechanical engineer by trade, Grant works for Spring Loaded Technology, a company that designs knee braces. He sees the mentorship program as a way to explore how his engineering background can intersect with sports administration and player safety.

    “It gives me an opportunity to see where there might be an overlap in my biomechanical and engineering background and the world of sport and administration,” Grant said.

    Why the Mentorship Program Matters?

    Football careers are short and players need to prepare for life after the game. The CFL Mentorship Program helps athletes like Castillo and Grant explore new career paths, build connections and get skills.

    “Football is a young man’s game,” Castillo said. “At some point or another we’re gonna be told, ‘Hey you’re not playing anymore.’ So I think the fact that they’re doing this, it’s cool. It’s opening other doors.”

  • Queen’s University Welcomes Ottawa Redblacks for 2025 Training Camp

    Queen’s University Welcomes Ottawa Redblacks for 2025 Training Camp

    For the first time in franchise history the Ottawa Redblacks will hold their training camp outside of the nation’s capital. Instead of setting up shop in Ottawa they are partnering with Queen’s University to hold their entire 2025 training camp in Kingston, Ontario. Here’s everything you need to know about the move and what it means for the team and the fans.

    Why Kingston for Training Camp?

    It wasn’t an easy decision. According to sources, multiple factors went into the decision. One of them was other CFL teams have successfully had camp outside their home cities and generate buzz and grow their fan base. By bringing the Redblacks to Kingston, we hope to introduce the team to a new audience and get Kingston residents to travel to TD Place during the regular season.

    Kingston is a Football Town

    Kingston is already a football city, with strong programs at the minor, high school and U Sports levels. Home to the Queen’s Golden Gaels, the city has great facilities and accommodations for players and staff. Richardson Stadium, renovated in 2016 and the new Lang Pavilion provide top notch amenities, meeting rooms, hydrotherapy facilities and more.

    And it’s close to Ottawa, only a 2 hour drive, so it’s an ideal location. We can travel easy and still get a fresh environment to prepare for the season.

    What Fans Can Expect in Kingston?

    The Redblacks’ training camp will kick off on May 11 and run through the preseason. The team will only return to TD Place for their final preseason game against the Montreal Alouettes on Friday, May 30 . This means all practices leading up to the game will take place in Kingston, giving local fans a unique opportunity to see their favorite players up close.

    Facilities at Queen’s University

    Queen’s University offers top-notch facilities that rival those found in professional sports settings. Richardson Stadium provides a spacious and modern venue for on-field activities, while the Lang Pavilion ensures players and staff have access to everything they need for recovery and strategy sessions. These resources make Kingston a perfect fit for hosting a professional training camp.

    New Way to Engage R-Nation

    One of the goals of this is to grow R-Nation by engaging fans that may not normally get to CFL games. Kingston has a passionate sports community and we can introduce the team to new fans and build relationships.

    Boost for Local Football

    Hosting training camp in Kingston also highlights the city’s football culture. Local youth and high school players may get to attend practices, meet players or even participate in events organized by the team. Maybe we’ll develop the next generation of football talent in the region.

    When will Ottawa Fans see the Team at Home?

    For Ottawa fans that can’t get to Kingston, the first chance to see the team at home will be Sunday, June 1 when Bob Dyce’s team has its first regular season practice at TD Place. Until then, Kingston will be the temporary home for the team as we prepare for the 2025 season.