Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Cherk On In The Huddle
Pats Select Poletin
Regina, Saskatchewan – They had to wait most of the day, but with the 59th pick of the 2009 CHL Import Draft, the Regina Pats are proud to select left winger, Michal Poletin from HC Slavia Praha of the U-20 Czech Extraliga.
In 2008-09 Poletin picked up 18 goals and 16 assists in 46 games. He was also the captain of the Czech U-18 team at the World Championships this past spring in Fargo, North Dakota.
Michal Poletin
Born June 9th, 1991
6’3” 210 Lbs.,
Shoots: Left
2008-09
HC Slavia Praha 46gp 18g 16a 34pts
Team Czech (U-18 WC) 6gp 1g 2a 3pts 2pim -2+/-
NHL Draft: Eligible 2010
Most scouting reports have Poletin pegged more as a North American style player who has the skills to be an asset on specialty teams. He doesn’t shy away from the corners, possesses a huge shot and is excellent in front of the net.
Catch In The Huddle Tonight
Get the latest on the Roughriders' hiring of Brendan Taman tonight at 7:00pm on In The Huddle LIVE province-wide on all Access affiliates.
We'll roll the tape from today's media scrum with Taman along with Rider President Jim Hopson. Our in-studio analyst will be former Rider defensive lineman Ron Cherkas.
Also, now's your chance to begin playing for real in the Bennett Dunlop Ford CFL Predictions contest. Sign up for free right now at http://www.inthehuddle.ca/ and start making your picks against the pro's!
The winner of the contest will win a $9,000 hot tub courtesy Coast Spas.
See you tonight!
Also, now's your chance to begin playing for real in the Bennett Dunlop Ford CFL Predictions contest. Sign up for free right now at http://www.inthehuddle.ca/ and start making your picks against the pro's!
The winner of the contest will win a $9,000 hot tub courtesy Coast Spas.
See you tonight!
Leave It To Beaver
RIDERS NAME BRENDAN TAMAN DIRECTOR OF FOOTBALL ADMINISTRATION
Saskatchewan Roughrider President/CEO Jim Hopson is very pleased to announce Brendan Taman has been named the team's Director of Football Administration.
"We are thrilled about bringing Brendan back to Saskatchewan," stated Hopson. "When the search started to replace Tony Playter in our football operations department, Brendan's name was at the very top of the list. Brendan brings a tremendous amount of experience to the organization and will be a huge asset to Eric Tillman and Ken Miller in our football operations department."
Taman joins the Riders after spending ten years with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, the last five seasons as the team's General Manager. He spent the 1997 and 1998 seasons as the Director of Player Personnel with the B.C. Lions. Before that, he spent four seasons (1993-1996) as Assistant Director of Player Personnel with the Roughriders. From 1989-1992, Taman was Operations Manager for Football with the Ottawa Rough Riders.
"I am very excited to be back in Saskatchewan working with such a first-class organization," stated Taman. "Eric and I have been friends for a long time and we have always wanted to work together. When this opportunity arose it was too good to pass up. Working alongside Eric, Ken Miller and the rest of the football operations department will be a great experience."
Saskatchewan Roughrider President/CEO Jim Hopson is very pleased to announce Brendan Taman has been named the team's Director of Football Administration.
"We are thrilled about bringing Brendan back to Saskatchewan," stated Hopson. "When the search started to replace Tony Playter in our football operations department, Brendan's name was at the very top of the list. Brendan brings a tremendous amount of experience to the organization and will be a huge asset to Eric Tillman and Ken Miller in our football operations department."
Taman joins the Riders after spending ten years with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, the last five seasons as the team's General Manager. He spent the 1997 and 1998 seasons as the Director of Player Personnel with the B.C. Lions. Before that, he spent four seasons (1993-1996) as Assistant Director of Player Personnel with the Roughriders. From 1989-1992, Taman was Operations Manager for Football with the Ottawa Rough Riders.
"I am very excited to be back in Saskatchewan working with such a first-class organization," stated Taman. "Eric and I have been friends for a long time and we have always wanted to work together. When this opportunity arose it was too good to pass up. Working alongside Eric, Ken Miller and the rest of the football operations department will be a great experience."
O'Day Previews Friday's Game
Get used to plenty more photos like this one thanks to my splashy new red Blackberry Curve courtesy Shea Paisley and the folks at Prairie Mobile Communications. I wanted a phone that took pictures and they hooked me up. Visit their website by clicking on the banner above...
Rider team captain and veteran centre Jeremy O'Day guested with us on Sportsline last night on CKRM. Jeremy shrugged off the Debbie Downers and the Negative Nelsons in the Rider Nation and said there's reason to be optimistic heading into the 2009 season:
"I feel real good about our team. I feel real confident about the personnel right off the bat. With the additions like Clermont and the new receivers and the training camp that RB Hugh Charles had shows we have another dimension in the running game. Adding Bobby Harris at left tackle and having guys like Best and Parenteau step up on the O-line gives us all reason to be optimistic."
"On defense, coach Richie Hall had a defense here for a number of years but now we're going to have a different style of defense. I don't think you should judge our team by the preseason. If I was a D-coordinator why would I tip my hand in preseason games? I'd keep other teams guessing and that's what coach Etcheverry's going to do. There will be a ton of different looks."
"If I could predict how we'd do, I wouldn't be sitting here right now but we feel confident and we feel good. It's our first game, we're fired up for the home opener and we need to get off to a good start and get that first win. Preseason is one thing but regular season is a whole new ball game."
The Riders open the season Friday night at 7:00 at home against the B.C. Lions on TSN and the CKRM Rider Radio Network. Jeremy was asked if the Lions are the Riders' top rival:
"It has to be B.C., just because of our history over the past five, six years. Just look at the games we've had and how important they were. It was always western finals or semifinals. They were always physical, scrappy games. We look forward to playing them and they look forward to playing us. They're always good games."
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Don't let me hear anymore belly-aching about how great Mosaic Stadium is for Rider games in the summer if we DON'T sellout Friday's contest. The club is still a ways away from selling out and it has them concerned.
"We want to get the game soldout and I'm sure we will," Rider President Jim Hopson said on Sportsline last night. "We're just under 2-thousand tickets left as of Monday morning and that's not a lot. In the old days it would've been several thousand but I think it's important we give our team that big time Rider support."
"It's B.C., it's Friday night, it's supposed to be a great night (24 degrees and sunny). Sometimes I get afraid that with our success people think it's automatically soldout but we're not. It'll be a great game to come and see."
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B.C. Lions radio colour analyst Guillio Caravatta was on Sportsline last night too, and he's pumped about the game.
"I love the fact we're opening a new season and for me personally, I'm really excited that we're coming to Regina because I love the atmosphere and I love the fans," Guillio told CKRM's The Hedgehog Chad Jeremy.
"The theme of this off-season for the Lions has definitely been change. Wally Buono has overhauled his whole team including eight starters. There's big shoes to fill. Most importantly look at DE Cam Wake and RB Stefan Logan. Those are big losses and Jason Clermont's in that sentence. They feel they've filled those holes, but it's all been preseason and practice and until you play in a game, I'll hold judgment. This is a big game for Wally Buono."
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The 3rd annual Draft A Rider event took place Monday night at Mosaic Stadium, where 19 players were selected by 19 sponsors for the season.
The sponsors will receive brand exposure via the SaskTel MaxTron when their player is featured on the screen.
Here is a list of the draft picks:
1st overall - Press Box Sports Bar - Jason Clermont
(Clermont poses with Press Box Manager Trevor Secundiak after going #1 overall)
2nd overall - M&M Meat Shops - Andy Fantuz
3rd overall - Young's Equipment - Weston Dressler
4th overall - CTV (via trade with Global Regina at 6th) - Luca Congi
5th overall - Queensbury Convention Centre - Wes Cates
6th overall - Global Regina - Darian Durant
7th overall - Pasta Prima - Scott Schultz
8th overall - Dash Tours - Chris Szarka
9th overall - Moose Jaw Refinery - Stevie Baggs
10th overall - Investors Group - Chris Getzlaf
11th overall - MicroAge - Eddie Davis
12th overall - South Country Equipment - Stu Foord
13th overall - hbi Office Plus - Lance Frazier
14th overall - All Weather Windows - Renauld Williams
15th overall - RCE Computers - Omarr Morgan
16th overall - Beverage International Distributors - Sean Lucas
17th overall - Mr. Electric - John Chick
18th overall - Canex ATM Provider - Marcus Adams
19th overall - Sunset Bay Arctic Spas - Steven Jyles
Monday, June 29, 2009
SPORTSLINE TONIGHT
2,000 tickets remain for the Riders' regular season opener this Friday night against the B.C. Lions and tonight on Sportsline on 620 CKRM, www.620ckrm.com, we'll be joined by Roughrider President and CEO Jim Hopson to discuss it.
Also on the show will be Rider team captain Jeremy O'Day, and B.C. Lions broadcaster Guillio Caravatta....
RP
Also on the show will be Rider team captain Jeremy O'Day, and B.C. Lions broadcaster Guillio Caravatta....
RP
Preston To Hurricanes
It appears former Calgary Flames assistant coach Rich Preston will be announced as head coach & GM of the WHL's Lethbridge Hurricanes tomorrow afternoon.
The 57-year old Reginan served as head coach of the Pats from 1995-97.
Lightning-Senators Info
Regina, SK - Evraz Place is pleased to once again welcome the National Hockey League back to Regina for a pre-season game between the Tampa Bay Lightning and Ottawa Senators on Monday, September 21st, 2009. Game time will be 7:00 p.m.
The last time an NHL game was played in Regina was almost two decades ago on September 28, 1990, when the Winnipeg Jets defeated the St. Louis Blues 7-6 at the Brandt Centre - which was then called the Agridome.
"The Tampa Bay Lightning are excited about the opportunity to play an exhibition game in Regina - one of Canada's true hockey communities" said Executive Vice - President and General Manager Brian Lawton. "Our players love playing in Canada"
The Lightning feature a mix of young and veteran talent, including 2009 second overall pick Victor Hedman along with first round pick Carter Ashton from Saskatoon and 2008 first overall pick Steven Stamkos, 1998 first overall pick Vincent Lecavalier, and 2004 Hart Trophy winner Martin St. Louis. The Senators counter with a strong lineup Daniel Alfredsson, Jason Spezza, and Dany Heatlley along with ninth overall pick Jared Cowan of Allan, Saskatchewan. Final rosters are subject to change and will be finalized on September 21st.
Regina Pats season ticket holders and 2010 IIHF World Junior Championship package holders will have the first opportunity to purchase tickets prior to the Friday, July 3rd general public on-sale. Ticket prices are $79.50 to $109.50 plus applicable service charges and are available through all Ticketmaster outlets, on-line at Ticketmaster.ca, by calling 543-7800 or 1-800-970-7328.
The last time an NHL game was played in Regina was almost two decades ago on September 28, 1990, when the Winnipeg Jets defeated the St. Louis Blues 7-6 at the Brandt Centre - which was then called the Agridome.
"The Tampa Bay Lightning are excited about the opportunity to play an exhibition game in Regina - one of Canada's true hockey communities" said Executive Vice - President and General Manager Brian Lawton. "Our players love playing in Canada"
The Lightning feature a mix of young and veteran talent, including 2009 second overall pick Victor Hedman along with first round pick Carter Ashton from Saskatoon and 2008 first overall pick Steven Stamkos, 1998 first overall pick Vincent Lecavalier, and 2004 Hart Trophy winner Martin St. Louis. The Senators counter with a strong lineup Daniel Alfredsson, Jason Spezza, and Dany Heatlley along with ninth overall pick Jared Cowan of Allan, Saskatchewan. Final rosters are subject to change and will be finalized on September 21st.
Regina Pats season ticket holders and 2010 IIHF World Junior Championship package holders will have the first opportunity to purchase tickets prior to the Friday, July 3rd general public on-sale. Ticket prices are $79.50 to $109.50 plus applicable service charges and are available through all Ticketmaster outlets, on-line at Ticketmaster.ca, by calling 543-7800 or 1-800-970-7328.
ROD PHILLIPS RETURNS AS VOICE OF THE OILERS
Legendary voice of the Edmonton Oilers Rod Phillips returns for his 37th consecutive year in the Oilers Radio play-by-play booth.
Rod has called them all, beginning with the first six Oilers seasons in the WHA and then 30 straight years in the NHL. He has called Stanley Cups, record moments, playoff runs, goals, gaffs and fights since the Oilers were first formed – all the greatest Edmonton Oilers moments.
He's created some of the most unique new words in the English language during hectic moments or big fights and has never been shy about his view of a call that didn't make sense.
"I honestly thought I might call it a day after last season," said Rod when announcing his return to the 630 CHED broadcast booth on The Link at edmontonoilers.com this morning. "In fact, I had my seat cushion under my arm and was headed for the hockey sunset but as usual a few weeks off have rejuvenated me and in fact right about now I can't wait for it all to begin again."
Inducted to the Hockey Hall of Fame in the Broadcaster category in 2003, Rod has called over 3400 Oilers games and will surpass 3500 games this season.
Rod has called them all, beginning with the first six Oilers seasons in the WHA and then 30 straight years in the NHL. He has called Stanley Cups, record moments, playoff runs, goals, gaffs and fights since the Oilers were first formed – all the greatest Edmonton Oilers moments.
He's created some of the most unique new words in the English language during hectic moments or big fights and has never been shy about his view of a call that didn't make sense.
"I honestly thought I might call it a day after last season," said Rod when announcing his return to the 630 CHED broadcast booth on The Link at edmontonoilers.com this morning. "In fact, I had my seat cushion under my arm and was headed for the hockey sunset but as usual a few weeks off have rejuvenated me and in fact right about now I can't wait for it all to begin again."
Inducted to the Hockey Hall of Fame in the Broadcaster category in 2003, Rod has called over 3400 Oilers games and will surpass 3500 games this season.
The Monday Morning Goalie
But what a great weekend! The Riders giving their troops Saturday and Sunday off gets a thumbs-up from all involved.
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"Where's the buzz? Where's the hype?" asked my longtime friend Carlo Giambattista at the Italian Star Deli as he made us some of his famous sandwiches last week.
The ponytailed Italiano was talking about what should be a collective frenzy across Saskatchewan in anticipation of the brand new season. So where is it?
I suppose that's a good question by Carlo. As evidenced by several of the comments from blog readers and word on the street over the past while, it doesn't sound like the Rider Nation holds out a ton of hope for 2009.
My question is, why? I'll wait until the games actually MEAN something before I pass judgment.
The fact we didn't sellout the preseason game last week could mean the hype is somewhat tempered. But we should applaud the fact we drew 29,107 fans on a Tuesday night.
Consider this; the Riders soldout preseason games in 2007 and 2008 when capacity was 28,800.
We outdrew that!
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We need to get a controversy going to sell tickets.
Roy?
I'm out of practice. Maybe later in the summer.......
Besides nobody's going to throw $6 beers anyways.
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Some think that cutting Casey McGahee on the basis of his ONE fumble on a punt return against Calgary may have been a little too harsh.
Hey like Head & Shoulders says, you never get a second chance to make a first impression.
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The highlight of the past week for me was the lady named Helga who called into CKRM's Coaches Show Wednesday night saying she's fed up with Rider fans "relieving themselves" in her backyard after games.
She's lived across the street from Mosaic Stadium/Taylor Field for 43 years yet has never had to put up with this problem until the past couple of seasons.
Helga warned she'll be out in the backyard with a camera this Friday night and if anybody stops to "shake the dew off their lily", she's going to take photos and send them to the Leader Post.
So guys, big sister is watching. And her name is Helga.
Actually Helga, send those photos here!:
sportsline@620ckrm.com
We could have some fun with those.....
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Congratulations to the organizers of last week's Sticks On Rose charity road hockey and golf tournament. $60,000 were raised in two days.
It was exciting to see all the young kids go nuts over all the NHL players who were on hand.
I heard a rumour from one of the organizers that NEXT year, Sidney Crosby may be in Regina for the event.
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The Vancouver Giants are close to naming a new broadcaster and it could be Morley Scott.
The longtime, and former, Edmonton Oilers colour commentator interviewed for the position last week with Giants owner Ron Toigo.
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Thank you to the Dumba family; Al, Cindy & Cassie for their wonderful hospitality yesterday, and to my brother Lee and family for last night at the waterslides! Much appreciated.
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The University of Regina Rams will never be the same.
Marketing Director Scott MacAuley resigned last week to take a position with pharmaceutical giant Pfizer.
Might "the Horns" take a look at Mitchell Blair for the job?
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Speaking of the Rams, is coach Frank McCrystal REALLY happy he lost Tamon George and Nick Hutchins to the Riders when the team announced its roster on Thursday?
Publically he's smiling that two more of his players made the pro's but privately he's got to be gritting his teeth.
And I'm still not sure what it means that P/K Perry Scarcelli of the Rams is on the Rider practice roster. Although he has a year left of CIS so if he stays on the Riders' PR, he can't go back.
Have I spoken with Frank? No.
But I'd draw the comparison to the Edmonton Oilers snatching Jordan Eberle or the L.A. Kings pillaging Colten Teubert this fall from the Regina Pats.
Would the Pats be happy? Not on your life.
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I'm sorry but if I'm going to watch MLB, I'd prefer it to be the Yankees.
THERE, I said it.
I'm afraid they're much more exciting and interesting than the Blue Jays.
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Melville blasted the Regina Red Sox 19-9 at Currie Field on Sunday.
Tonight the Red Sox are home to the Moose Jaw Miller Express at 7:00.
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If you missed This Week In Baseball on the weekend, I feel bad for you.
They profiled Hall of Fame Milwaukee Brewers broadcaster Bob Uecker who's celebrating over 50 years in the majors.
"Uke" had 843 plate appearances during his non-descript major league career but oddly enough, no triples.
Although, he's had his share of triples in the odd watering hole. Read his book "Catcher In The Wry" sometime.
It's a can't-put-downer.
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Nobody notices these things, but I do.
In video clips of Gary Bettman during this weekend's Draft, the NHL Commissioner had to pull the antennae out to speak on his 1998-era cel phone.
No BlackBerry for Bettman.
A silent slap in the face to Jim Balsillie perhaps?
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Not for one second did I think the hiring of Brent Sutter as coach of the Flames was suspect, but it didn't take long for the term "nepotism" to be thrown around.
Consider this; Darryl Sutter will never have to fire his little brother.
If this move fails, ALL the Sutters will be gone from Calgary. But I think most Flames fans support the hiring.
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Many have asked where we're at for sales of the book "Green Magic - Canada's Team Wins The 2007 Grey Cup."
Well, we're 800 book sales away from best-seller status.
Get into the Rider Store this Friday and get yours if you haven't already!
Hopefully it'll bring back the warm and fuzzy feelings of the 2007 Rider championship season.
That was the idea of the book anyways.
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Take my advice and don't go to the movie The Hangover twice.
We did that on Saturday, and it doesn't have the same effect the second time around. Basically, we sat through an hour and 45 minutes just to see the credits again (which is the best part).
Apparently the show isn't for everyone either. There were three little old ladies sitting in front of us, but they got up and left 15 minutes or so in.
Really, what movie did they think they were going to see?
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Boooooooo to the documentary on the TV channel Star on the weekend, chronicling the Top 25 sex scandals of all time.
Pam and Tommy Lee at #1? I DON'T THINK SO!
Bill and Monica are a slam dunk for that "honour".
Pam and Tommy happens every second weekend.
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I shake my head at these elaborate high school graduation ceremonies.
Limousines? $2,000 gowns? All the bells and whistles?
To me, if you don't pass grade 12 you should have your tail kicked.
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I wish I'd had a TV camera in front of the doors at the kids' school when the doors flew open at 3:30pm last Wednesday.
The little kids ran out the doors yelling, screaming and jumping like the place was on fire.....
SUMMER'S HERE!!!!!!!!!!!!!
What a great feeling. And it'll be over before we know it..
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Question: Why do people text me an hour before kickoff asking for tickets to a Rider game?
Where do you think I am at that time? On the practice field swilling Pilsner with a pocket full of tickets to give away?
It doesn't matter now anyways. I'm only allotted a pair of tickets per game and they're all spoken for for the rest of the season..
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So long Starbucks! It was nice knowin' ya.
There's a new coffee shop in town called NO COAST COFFEE HOUSE in the stripmall at the corner of Dewdney and McCarthy.
What a great place this is! Locally-owned, no lineups, leather sofas and arm chairs and three internet stations. Perfect!
And there's a Petro Canada that just opened for business right there too. That area of the city was crying for a gas station.
Well done!
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They're well into construction of the new Super Walmart at Harbour Landing south of the Regina Airport.
My construction friends tell me this thing's going to be a monster!
Think of the Walmart in Minot, only possibly bigger. There's rumours of a new theatre and a LOWE'S going in there too.
But I have to start a movement now to get the Mayor to construct a pedway over the now bustling intersection of Lewvan Drive and Gordon Road.
The kids are talking about riding their bikes over there and I don't want them to get smucked.
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Is there anything more disturbing on TV right now than that Slap Chop commercial? It's that hand-held food processor/blender/grader.
"You're gonna love my nuts!" says the weirdo pitch-man.
What has this world come to?
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Here's a heart-warming email from Regina Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation fundraiser, and Notre Dame Hounds Midget AAA manager Randy Durovick:
"On a side note I attended the JDF AGM in Toronto last week and at the awards Banquet the Regina Chapter won best Chapter for all of Canada. This was based on performance, revenues, expenses and overall profitability."
"Not sure if I had mentioned last year at this same event the Regina Chapter won the Board of Directors Excellence Award for outstanding work and dedication
to finding a cure of Type 1 Diabetes."
"This is a direct reflection of our many walkers, volunteers and corporate sponsors. Who says small town Sask. can't compete with the big dogs like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary?"
The Riders' John Chick has been Superman to the JDRF cause.
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That's all for now....
HAVE A GREAT WEEK!
RP
Sunday, June 28, 2009
No Harrell Yet
The Sportsnet report that record-breaking Texas Tech quarterback Graham Harrell is on his way to Saskatchewan is a bit premature.
Harrell is currently working out with his brother Clark in Abilene, Texas and plans to exhaust all NFL opportunities before heading north. Supposedly Rider GM Eric Tillman has been in regular contact with Harrell and his agent since the NFL draft transpired in late April.
Graham attended the Cleveland Browns mini camp in May, but, at this point, he is still unsigned in the NFL.
Today the Riders are enjoying the second of two days off.
Friday they open the season against the B.C. Lions and Mike Beamish of the Vancouver Sun reports LB Reggie Hunt could be in a B.C. uniform by then.
The Reaper was released by Montreal on Thursday.
Harrell is currently working out with his brother Clark in Abilene, Texas and plans to exhaust all NFL opportunities before heading north. Supposedly Rider GM Eric Tillman has been in regular contact with Harrell and his agent since the NFL draft transpired in late April.
Graham attended the Cleveland Browns mini camp in May, but, at this point, he is still unsigned in the NFL.
Today the Riders are enjoying the second of two days off.
Friday they open the season against the B.C. Lions and Mike Beamish of the Vancouver Sun reports LB Reggie Hunt could be in a B.C. uniform by then.
The Reaper was released by Montreal on Thursday.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
31 WHL PLAYERS SELECTED IN 2009 NHL ENTRY DRAFT
FIVE WHL PLAYERS WERE SELECTED IN FIRST ROUND
Calgary, AB – Vancouver Giants centerman Evander Kane became the first of five WHL players selected in the first round of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft when the Atlanta Thrashers used the 4th overall selection to pick the 17-year-old Vancouver, B.C. product this evening at the Bell Centre in Montreal.
Calgary, AB – Vancouver Giants centerman Evander Kane became the first of five WHL players selected in the first round of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft when the Atlanta Thrashers used the 4th overall selection to pick the 17-year-old Vancouver, B.C. product this evening at the Bell Centre in Montreal.
In total, 31 WHL players were selected at the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.
1st Round
#4. Atlanta Thrashers – Evander Kane; Vancouver, B.C.; Vancouver Giants
#5. Los Angeles Kings – Brayden Schenn; Saskatoon, SK; Brandon Wheat Kings
#8. Dallas Stars – Scott Glennie; Winnipeg, MB; Brandon Wheat Kings
#9. Ottawa Senators – Jared Cowen; Saskatoon, SK; Spokane Chiefs
#29. Tampa Bay Lightning – Carter Ashton; Saskatoon, SK; Lethbridge Hurricanes
2nd Round
#32. Detroit Red Wings – Landon Ferraro; Trail, B.C.; Red Deer Rebels
#48. St. Louis Blues – Brett Ponich; Edmonton, AB; Portland Winterhawks
#49. Colorado Avalanche – Stefan Elliott; Vancouver, B.C.; Saskatoon Blades
3rd Round
#64. Colorado Avalanche – Tyson Barrie; Victoria, B.C.; Kelowna Rockets
#66. Buffalo Sabers – Brayden McNabb; Saskatoon, SK; Kootenay Ice
#74. Calgary Flames – Ryan Howse; Prince George, B.C.; Chilliwack Bruins
#81. Philadelphia Flyers – Adam Morrison; Edmonton, AB; Saskatoon Blades
#82. Edmonton Oilers – Cameron Abney; Aldergrove, B.C.; Everett Silvertips
#85. Washington Capitals – Cody Eakin; Winnipeg, MB; Swift Current Broncos
#86. Boston Bruins – Ryan Button; Edmonton, AB; Prince Albert Raiders
4th Round
#96. Los Angeles Kings – Linden Vey; Wakaw, SK; Medicine Hat Tigers
#103. Minnesota Wild – Kris Foucault; Calgary, AB; Calgary Hitmen
#105. Phoenix Coyotes – Justin Weller; Daysland, AB; Red Deer Rebels
#108. St. Louis Blues – Tyler Shattock; Vernon, B.C.; Kamloops Blazers
#119. Chicago Blackhawks – Byron Froese; Winkler, MB; Everett Silvertips
5th Round
#129. Dallas Stars – Thomas Vincour; Brno, CZE; Edmonton Oil Kings
6th Round
#155. Atlanta Thrashers – Jimmy Bubnick; Esterhazy, SK; Kamloops Blazers
#157. Phoenix Coyotes – Evan Bloodoff; Nelson, B.C.; Kelowna Rockets
#161. Minnesota Wild – Darcy Kuemper; Saskatoon, SK; Red Deer Rebels
#175. Washington Capitals – Garrett Mitchell; Regina, SK; Regina Pats
#179. Los Angeles Kings – Brandon Kozun; Calgary, AB; Calgary Hitmen
#180. Detroit Red Wings – Mitchell Callahan; Whittier, CA; Kelowna Rockets
7th Round
#185. Atlanta Thrashers – Levko Koper; Edmonton, AB; Spokane Chiefs
#189. San Jose Sharks – Marek Viedensky; Handlova, SK; Prince George Cougars
#201. Calgary Flames – Gaelan Patterson; La Ronge, SK; Saskatoon Blades
#208. Carolina Hurricanes – Tommi Kivisto; Vantaa, FIN; Red Deer Rebels
Capitals Pick Mitchell
The Washington Capitals drafted Regina Pats forward Garrett Mitchell in the 6th round, 175th overall, in today's National Hockey League Entry Draft.Congrats Mitchy!
Don't Buy Your Jersey Yet!
Rookie Rider receiver Johnny Quinn reports on Twitter he has changed his jersey number from 86 to 81.
I'm sure there are a lot of citizens of the Rider Nation ready to debut splashy new jerseys with their favourite "new" Riders' numbers on them for next Friday's season-opener but you'd better hold off until mid-week.
Who can forget the Rider staffer who snuck into the locker room last year to see what number Michael Bishop was wearing, so he could race out and be the first to get a replica?
Turns out Bishop wore that #11 for only a day before switching to #17. And our buddy C.P. was stuck with a jersey no one wanted!
Other players to change their numbers are Eric Morris (8), Bobby Harris (63) and Aaron Wagner (11).
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There are reports former Texas Tech Red Raider QB Graham Harrell is on his way up to Regina to join the Riders.
Apparently he's been talking daily to his friend, and rookie Rider receiver Eric "E-Mo" Morris since training camp began. We'll see what happens........
RP
Rider Sked
SATURDAY, JUNE 27TH
DAY OFF – NO MEDIA AVAILABILITY
SUNDAY, JUNE 28TH
DAY OFF – NO MEDIA AVAILABILITY
MONDAY, JUNE 29TH
11:00 am Riders practice
12:55 pm Rider players and coaches available to media
TUESDAY, JUNE 30TH
11:00 am Riders practice
1:00 pm Rider players and coaches available to media
WEDNESDAY, JULY 1ST
11:00 am Riders practice
12:45 pm Rider players and coaches available to media
THURSDAY, JULY 2ND
10:15 am Riders walk-thru
10:45 am Rider players and coaches available to media
11:15 am Coach Miller press conference
TBA B.C. Lions walk-thru and media availability
FRIDAY, JULY 3RD
7:00 pm SASKATCHEWAN ROUGHRIDERS vs B.C. LIONS
620 CKRM Rider Radio Network, TSN
SATURDAY, JULY 4TH
DAY OFF – NO MEDIA AVAILABILITY
DAY OFF – NO MEDIA AVAILABILITY
SUNDAY, JUNE 28TH
DAY OFF – NO MEDIA AVAILABILITY
MONDAY, JUNE 29TH
11:00 am Riders practice
12:55 pm Rider players and coaches available to media
TUESDAY, JUNE 30TH
11:00 am Riders practice
1:00 pm Rider players and coaches available to media
WEDNESDAY, JULY 1ST
11:00 am Riders practice
12:45 pm Rider players and coaches available to media
THURSDAY, JULY 2ND
10:15 am Riders walk-thru
10:45 am Rider players and coaches available to media
11:15 am Coach Miller press conference
TBA B.C. Lions walk-thru and media availability
FRIDAY, JULY 3RD
7:00 pm SASKATCHEWAN ROUGHRIDERS vs B.C. LIONS
620 CKRM Rider Radio Network, TSN
SATURDAY, JULY 4TH
DAY OFF – NO MEDIA AVAILABILITY
Friday, June 26, 2009
The Boys Are Back In Town!
We've got more scoops today than Baskin Robbins. We're taking a break from football this morning to tell you about the Shooting Stars Foundation's festivities in Regina this week. Yesterday was the golf tournament at the Royal Regina, last night was the "smoker" at the Press Box Sports Bar and today is the annual Sticks on Rose road hockey tournament in downtown Regina featuring a bevy of NHL stars.
I know "smoker" is an old-time term for a get-together, but what truly is the definition? Either way, it was a good time!
Shooting Stars is the charitable foundation established by Regina NHLers Mike Sillinger and Jamie Heward. In the above photo is Sillinger. Last night, he announced his retirement from the NHL to the assembled crowd at the Press Box.. Well, he said he's 99.9% sure of it anyways.....
There was a time there were more NHL referees from Regina than players. I'm not sure that's the case anymore. Anyways, above you see Mike Hasenfratz and in the background retired NHL ref Mick McGeough. Also on hand was Brad "Oscar" Meier.
In the Payne Stewart hat is Claude Wickenheiser of the famed Wickenheiser hockey clan from Regina. Claude, a philanthropist? He outbid the Press Box Sports Bar owners for an autographed Mike Sillinger Islanders jersey, shelling out $4,000. Claudio then donated the jersey BACK to the Press Box, and it was promptly raised to the rafters.
Colten Teubert. Of the L.A. Kings, or of the Regina Pats?
There were several current and ex-Pats in attendance including Jordan Eberle. So too was Josh Harding, and the Minnesota Wild goalie expects a trade in the near future. Perhaps even this weekend during the NHL Draft festivities in Montreal. The two front-runners for his services? The Edmonton Oilers and Colorado Avalanche.
Al Dumba or Serge Savard?
Melville Millionaires coach & GM Jamie Fiesel....
CFL website entrepreneur Jeff "E" Armstead checks his Blackberry for the latest from Hank. Jeff also owns and operates the charity website http://www.shootingstarsfoundation.ca/ . Jeff also owns and operates http://www.henryburris.com/ and last night when they broke the news of Hank's contract extension, it touched off a frenzy across the CFL regarding whether or not athletes need the media anymore?
Interesting debate.
Press Box waitress Brittney wants to see YOU at today's P.B. lunch buffet. Here's the menu:
Friday June 26th, Lunch Buffet:
Tossed and Caesar Salad
Battered Mushrooms
Chicken Fingers
Pan Fries
Potato Salad
Sautéed Cauliflower
Mediterranean Sautéed Vegetables
Rice and Peas with Saffron Chicken
Pizza Buffet
Pizza, Pepperoni and Mushroom, Ham and Pineapple, Veggie
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Hank Signs
The Calgary Stampeders and Henry Burris will announce at a 12:30 news conference tomorrow that the reigning Grey Cup MVP has signed a four year extension.
Check out www.henryburris.com
Check out www.henryburris.com
Thursday Photos
It's good to give you a look "Under The Helmet". Here are some of the photos from the media event today at Mosaic Stadium. In the photo above, the Riders #19 Eric Morris. You may remember he had 7 catches for over 90 yards with the Texas Tech Red Raiders in the Cottonbowl last year against Kent Austin's Ole Miss Runnin' Rebels.
The Twitter-man, rookie Rider receiver #86 Johnny Quinn after his interview with Warren Woods..
Darian Durant and the Scruffy one, Mitchell Blair...
Riders To The Max host Brittney Thies with Wes Cates.......
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Speaking of Rider TV shows, don't miss In The Huddle tonight at 7pm on Access!
2009-2010 Regina Pats Schedule
PRINT THIS OFF!!
Tentative and Subject to Change
Exhibition
Friday, Aug. 28th @ Edm. (Edm. Tourn.)
Saturday, Aug. 29th vs M.H. (Edm. Tourn.)
Sunday, Aug. 30th vs S.C. (Edm. Tourn.)
Friday, Sept. 4th @ Brandon
Wednesday, Sept. 9th vs. Brandon
Saturday, Sept. 12th vs. Saskatoon
Sunday, Sept. 13th @ Prince Albert
Regular Season
Friday, Sept. 18th @ Saskatoon
Saturday, Sept. 19th vs. Brandon
Wednesday, Sept. 23rd vs. Saskatoon
Friday, Sept. 25th vs. Moose Jaw
Sunday, Sept. 27th vs. Saskatoon (6pm)
Wednesday, Sept. 30th @ Prince Albert
OCTOBER
Friday, Oct. 2nd vs. Swift Current
Saturday, Oct. 3rd vs. Red Deer
Wednesday, Oct. 7th @ Moose Jaw
Friday, Oct. 9th vs. Calgary
Friday, Oct. 16th vs. Kamloops
Saturday, Oct. 17th vs. Lethbridge
Tuesday, Oct. 20th @ Prince Albert
Wednesday, Oct. 21st @ Saskatoon
Saturday, Oct. 24th @ Swift Current
Sunday, Oct. 25th vs. Swift Current (6pm)
Friday, Oct. 30th @ Prince Albert
NOVEMBER
Wednesday, Nov. 4th vs. Medicine Hat
Friday, Nov. 6th vs. Saskatoon
Sunday, Nov. 8th vs. Prince Albert (6pm)
Tuesday, Nov. 10th vs. Prince George
Friday, Nov. 13th vs. Moose Jaw
Saturday, Nov. 14th @ Moose Jaw
Sunday, Nov. 15th @ Brandon
Tuesday, Nov. 17th vs. Edmonton
Friday, Nov. 20th @ Kootenay
Saturday, Nov. 21st @ Tri-City
Tuesday, Nov. 24th @ Portland
Wednesday, Nov. 25th @ Seattle
Friday, Nov. 27th @ Everett
Saturday, Nov. 28th @ Spokane
DECEMBER
Saturday, Dec. 5th vs. Brandon
Sunday, Dec. 6th vs. Prince Albert (6pm)
Wednesday, Dec. 9th vs. Kelowna
Friday, Dec. 11th @ Medicine Hat
Saturday, Dec 12th @ Lethbridge
Tuesday, Dec. 15th @ Red Deer
Wednesday, Dec. 16th @ Edmonton
Friday, Dec. 18th @ Calgary
Sunday, Dec. 27nd @ Medicine Hat
Tuesday, Dec. 29th @ Calgary
Thursday, Dec. 31st @ Kootenay
JANUARY
Saturday, Jan. 2nd @ Lethbridge
Friday, Jan. 8th vs. Moose Jaw
Saturday, Jan 9th vs. Medicine Hat
Wednesday, Jan. 13th vs. Brandon
Friday, Jan. 15th vs. Edmonton
Saturday, Jan. 16th vs. Swift Current
Friday, Jan. 22nd vs. Swift Current
Saturday, Jan. 23rd @ Swift Current
Sunday, Jan. 24th vs. Kootenay
Friday, Jan. 29th vs. Moose Jaw
Saturday, Jan. 30th @ Moose Jaw
FEBRUARY
Tuesday, Feb. 2nd vs. Red Deer
Friday, Feb. 5th vs. Saskatoon
Saturday, Feb. 6th vs. Kootenay
Tuesday, Feb. 9th @ Brandon
Wednesday, Feb. 10th vs. Calgary
Friday, Feb. 12th @ Red Deer
Saturday, Feb. 13th @ Edmonton
Friday, Feb. 19th @ Brandon
Saturday, Feb. 20th vs. Chilliwack
Tuesday, Feb. 23rd @ Moose Jaw
Wednesday, Feb. 24th vs. Vancouver
Friday, Feb. 26th @ Swift Current
Saturday, Feb 27th @ Saskatoon
MARCH
Tuesday, March 2nd @ Swift Current
Friday, March 5th vs. Lethbridge
Saturday, Marsh 6th vs. Prince Albert
Wednesday, March 10th @ Saskatoon
Friday, March 12th vs. Brandon
Saturday, March 13th @ Brandon
**All home games are a 7pm start unless otherwise noted
Tentative and Subject to Change
Exhibition
Friday, Aug. 28th @ Edm. (Edm. Tourn.)
Saturday, Aug. 29th vs M.H. (Edm. Tourn.)
Sunday, Aug. 30th vs S.C. (Edm. Tourn.)
Friday, Sept. 4th @ Brandon
Wednesday, Sept. 9th vs. Brandon
Saturday, Sept. 12th vs. Saskatoon
Sunday, Sept. 13th @ Prince Albert
Regular Season
Friday, Sept. 18th @ Saskatoon
Saturday, Sept. 19th vs. Brandon
Wednesday, Sept. 23rd vs. Saskatoon
Friday, Sept. 25th vs. Moose Jaw
Sunday, Sept. 27th vs. Saskatoon (6pm)
Wednesday, Sept. 30th @ Prince Albert
OCTOBER
Friday, Oct. 2nd vs. Swift Current
Saturday, Oct. 3rd vs. Red Deer
Wednesday, Oct. 7th @ Moose Jaw
Friday, Oct. 9th vs. Calgary
Friday, Oct. 16th vs. Kamloops
Saturday, Oct. 17th vs. Lethbridge
Tuesday, Oct. 20th @ Prince Albert
Wednesday, Oct. 21st @ Saskatoon
Saturday, Oct. 24th @ Swift Current
Sunday, Oct. 25th vs. Swift Current (6pm)
Friday, Oct. 30th @ Prince Albert
NOVEMBER
Wednesday, Nov. 4th vs. Medicine Hat
Friday, Nov. 6th vs. Saskatoon
Sunday, Nov. 8th vs. Prince Albert (6pm)
Tuesday, Nov. 10th vs. Prince George
Friday, Nov. 13th vs. Moose Jaw
Saturday, Nov. 14th @ Moose Jaw
Sunday, Nov. 15th @ Brandon
Tuesday, Nov. 17th vs. Edmonton
Friday, Nov. 20th @ Kootenay
Saturday, Nov. 21st @ Tri-City
Tuesday, Nov. 24th @ Portland
Wednesday, Nov. 25th @ Seattle
Friday, Nov. 27th @ Everett
Saturday, Nov. 28th @ Spokane
DECEMBER
Saturday, Dec. 5th vs. Brandon
Sunday, Dec. 6th vs. Prince Albert (6pm)
Wednesday, Dec. 9th vs. Kelowna
Friday, Dec. 11th @ Medicine Hat
Saturday, Dec 12th @ Lethbridge
Tuesday, Dec. 15th @ Red Deer
Wednesday, Dec. 16th @ Edmonton
Friday, Dec. 18th @ Calgary
Sunday, Dec. 27nd @ Medicine Hat
Tuesday, Dec. 29th @ Calgary
Thursday, Dec. 31st @ Kootenay
JANUARY
Saturday, Jan. 2nd @ Lethbridge
Friday, Jan. 8th vs. Moose Jaw
Saturday, Jan 9th vs. Medicine Hat
Wednesday, Jan. 13th vs. Brandon
Friday, Jan. 15th vs. Edmonton
Saturday, Jan. 16th vs. Swift Current
Friday, Jan. 22nd vs. Swift Current
Saturday, Jan. 23rd @ Swift Current
Sunday, Jan. 24th vs. Kootenay
Friday, Jan. 29th vs. Moose Jaw
Saturday, Jan. 30th @ Moose Jaw
FEBRUARY
Tuesday, Feb. 2nd vs. Red Deer
Friday, Feb. 5th vs. Saskatoon
Saturday, Feb. 6th vs. Kootenay
Tuesday, Feb. 9th @ Brandon
Wednesday, Feb. 10th vs. Calgary
Friday, Feb. 12th @ Red Deer
Saturday, Feb. 13th @ Edmonton
Friday, Feb. 19th @ Brandon
Saturday, Feb. 20th vs. Chilliwack
Tuesday, Feb. 23rd @ Moose Jaw
Wednesday, Feb. 24th vs. Vancouver
Friday, Feb. 26th @ Swift Current
Saturday, Feb 27th @ Saskatoon
MARCH
Tuesday, March 2nd @ Swift Current
Friday, March 5th vs. Lethbridge
Saturday, Marsh 6th vs. Prince Albert
Wednesday, March 10th @ Saskatoon
Friday, March 12th vs. Brandon
Saturday, March 13th @ Brandon
**All home games are a 7pm start unless otherwise noted
Thursday Ken Miller Quotes
CFL notes below the quotes:
Q. How hard was cutdown day?
KM: The decisions were tough. Anytime you send men home it's a tough environment and we had to do several of those yesterday. But we got through it. They're all tough. It's one thing to take a player out of a game and sit him down and it's another to climb in a room and tell him he's going home. It's emotional for them and it's not a walk in the park for me.
Q. Where are you at in the kick return game?
KM: It's pretty obvious that our kick return game is pretty good. The thing that Morris and Quinn have shown is that they're going to catch the ball consistently and we had some great returns. Particularly with Morris, so we're going with consistency there.
Q. You've depleted the Regina Rams. Have you spoken with their coach Frank McCrystal?
KM: No but I think he's probably pretty happy.
Q. Can you assess why you kept the Rams' Tamon George and Nick Hutchins?
KM: Certainly they have talent and ability and the chance to be quality players. Hutchins is pretty close behind Chris Best on the depth chart and I think the way this is going to shake down, if he's not on the active roster he'll certainly be on the reserve.
But right now we could use a backup guard and that fits his scenario.
Q. Have you decided on a starting QB yet?
KM: I haven't had a chance to talk to them as funny as that may seem right now. Either they've been in meetings or I have but I want to sit down and talk with them and have that conversation before I talk with anyone else.
Q. You know who it is?
KM: I'm pretty well set!
Q. With the release of Juan Joseph, do you have a 4th QB coming in?
KM: No we don't. We have talked about other people but no one's scheduled to come in.
Q. What players were the best surprises in camp?
KM: #39 DB McKenzie, and then receivers Eric Morris and Johnny Quinn, and you can throw in Hutchins. Really the rookies who made our roster have all been really good.
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Montreal releases LB Reggie Hunt.
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Hamilton places RB Kenton Keith on the 9-game injured list.
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The Winnipeg Blue Bomber football club has released the following players:
DB - Patrick Body
WR – Terry Firr
OL – J-F Morin-Roberge
OL – Matt O’Meara
RB – Joe Smith
DB – Ronyell Whitaker
OL – Thaddeus Coleman
DB – Jasper Johnson
DB – Nick Kordic
DE – Montez Murphy
DE – Chase Ortiz
LB – Neil Ternovatsky
Q. How hard was cutdown day?
KM: The decisions were tough. Anytime you send men home it's a tough environment and we had to do several of those yesterday. But we got through it. They're all tough. It's one thing to take a player out of a game and sit him down and it's another to climb in a room and tell him he's going home. It's emotional for them and it's not a walk in the park for me.
Q. Where are you at in the kick return game?
KM: It's pretty obvious that our kick return game is pretty good. The thing that Morris and Quinn have shown is that they're going to catch the ball consistently and we had some great returns. Particularly with Morris, so we're going with consistency there.
Q. You've depleted the Regina Rams. Have you spoken with their coach Frank McCrystal?
KM: No but I think he's probably pretty happy.
Q. Can you assess why you kept the Rams' Tamon George and Nick Hutchins?
KM: Certainly they have talent and ability and the chance to be quality players. Hutchins is pretty close behind Chris Best on the depth chart and I think the way this is going to shake down, if he's not on the active roster he'll certainly be on the reserve.
But right now we could use a backup guard and that fits his scenario.
Q. Have you decided on a starting QB yet?
KM: I haven't had a chance to talk to them as funny as that may seem right now. Either they've been in meetings or I have but I want to sit down and talk with them and have that conversation before I talk with anyone else.
Q. You know who it is?
KM: I'm pretty well set!
Q. With the release of Juan Joseph, do you have a 4th QB coming in?
KM: No we don't. We have talked about other people but no one's scheduled to come in.
Q. What players were the best surprises in camp?
KM: #39 DB McKenzie, and then receivers Eric Morris and Johnny Quinn, and you can throw in Hutchins. Really the rookies who made our roster have all been really good.
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Montreal releases LB Reggie Hunt.
----
Hamilton places RB Kenton Keith on the 9-game injured list.
-----
The Winnipeg Blue Bomber football club has released the following players:
DB - Patrick Body
WR – Terry Firr
OL – J-F Morin-Roberge
OL – Matt O’Meara
RB – Joe Smith
DB – Ronyell Whitaker
OL – Thaddeus Coleman
DB – Jasper Johnson
DB – Nick Kordic
DE – Montez Murphy
DE – Chase Ortiz
LB – Neil Ternovatsky
STAMPS FINALIZE ROSTER
The Calgary Stampeders have made the following moves in order to finalize their roster for the opening of the 2009 Canadian Football League regular season.
RELEASED
Receiver Jackie Chambers*
Quarterback Matt D'Orazio*
Offensive lineman John Hashem
Defensive back Anthony Ivy*
Defensive lineman Julian Jenkins* Receiver John Kanaroski
Defensive lineman E.J. Kuale*
Defensive back Perry Kyles*
Receiver Vincent Marshall*
Fullback Scott McHenry
Running back Cedric Thompson*
PLACED ON PRACTICE ROSTER
Offensive lineman Michael Byrne* Offensive lineman Jon Gott
Linebacker Kelvin Morris*
Defensive back Quinton Meaders*
Offensive lineman Steve Myddelton
Defensive lineman Osie Ukwuoma
Running back Derek Watson*
PLACED ON INJURED LIST
Running back Jon Cornish
Receiver Jermaine Jackson*
Defensive lineman Tom Johnson*
Fullback Fernand Kashama
Offensive lineman Jeff Pilon
Offensive lineman Derek Armstrong
Linebacker Lemarcus Rowell*
Defensive back Brandon Smith*
RELEASED
Receiver Jackie Chambers*
Quarterback Matt D'Orazio*
Offensive lineman John Hashem
Defensive back Anthony Ivy*
Defensive lineman Julian Jenkins* Receiver John Kanaroski
Defensive lineman E.J. Kuale*
Defensive back Perry Kyles*
Receiver Vincent Marshall*
Fullback Scott McHenry
Running back Cedric Thompson*
PLACED ON PRACTICE ROSTER
Offensive lineman Michael Byrne* Offensive lineman Jon Gott
Linebacker Kelvin Morris*
Defensive back Quinton Meaders*
Offensive lineman Steve Myddelton
Defensive lineman Osie Ukwuoma
Running back Derek Watson*
PLACED ON INJURED LIST
Running back Jon Cornish
Receiver Jermaine Jackson*
Defensive lineman Tom Johnson*
Fullback Fernand Kashama
Offensive lineman Jeff Pilon
Offensive lineman Derek Armstrong
Linebacker Lemarcus Rowell*
Defensive back Brandon Smith*
RIDER TRANSACTIONS
The Roughriders have released the following players:
Non-Import DL Nuvraj Bassi
Import WR Todd Blythe
Non-Import K/P Jeff Bolen
Import WR Brandon Childress
Import RB Jason Geathers
Non-Import DB Sasha Glavic
Import QB Juan Joseph
Import WR Casey McGahee
Import LB Sam Olajabutu
Import DL David Patterson
Import LB Brandon Perkins
Non-Import OL Brad Peters
Import WR Byron Ross
Import DL Seante Williams
Import DB Jerron Wishom
The Roughriders have placed the following on the injured list:
Import RB Wes Cates
Non-Import DB Tamon George
Import DB Denatay Heard
Non-Import OL Gene Makowsky
Non-Import WR Adam Nicolson
Non-Import OL Jordan Rempel
Import WR Gerran Walker
The Roughriders have placed the following on the 9-game injured list:
Non-Import RB Neal Hughes
Non-Import WR David McKoy
Non-Import DB Leron Mitchell
Non-Import OL Wayne Smith
The Roughriders have placed the following on the Practice Roster:
Import DB Carlos Armour
Import RB Justin Beaver
Non-Import OL Dan Clark
Import DB Daniel Francis
Non-Import DB Joel Lipinski
Non-Import K/P Perri Scarcelli
Import DL Joe Sykes
Non-Import DB Konrad Wasiela
Non-Import DL Nuvraj Bassi
Import WR Todd Blythe
Non-Import K/P Jeff Bolen
Import WR Brandon Childress
Import RB Jason Geathers
Non-Import DB Sasha Glavic
Import QB Juan Joseph
Import WR Casey McGahee
Import LB Sam Olajabutu
Import DL David Patterson
Import LB Brandon Perkins
Non-Import OL Brad Peters
Import WR Byron Ross
Import DL Seante Williams
Import DB Jerron Wishom
The Roughriders have placed the following on the injured list:
Import RB Wes Cates
Non-Import DB Tamon George
Import DB Denatay Heard
Non-Import OL Gene Makowsky
Non-Import WR Adam Nicolson
Non-Import OL Jordan Rempel
Import WR Gerran Walker
The Roughriders have placed the following on the 9-game injured list:
Non-Import RB Neal Hughes
Non-Import WR David McKoy
Non-Import DB Leron Mitchell
Non-Import OL Wayne Smith
The Roughriders have placed the following on the Practice Roster:
Import DB Carlos Armour
Import RB Justin Beaver
Non-Import OL Dan Clark
Import DB Daniel Francis
Non-Import DB Joel Lipinski
Non-Import K/P Perri Scarcelli
Import DL Joe Sykes
Non-Import DB Konrad Wasiela
Rider Cuts? // Riders Unveil New Jerseys
The Leader Post reports the Riders have cut import rookie running back Jason Geathers and the club informed me Tuesday night they've released import DE Seante Williams.
All cuts have to be announced to the CFL office by 2:00pm Thursday. Apparently the Rider football ops staff met at Eric Tillman's residence Wednesday morning to finalize the roster.
----
Meanwhile in this "information age", word is spreading with regards who's actually MADE the squad. Rookie receiver Johnny Quinn reported on Twitter that he "MADE THE TEAM!"
Also Rider rookies from Regina OG Nick Hutchins and CB Tamon George have apparently avoided the axe and congrats to them. Now, they may have made the practice roster but not the 46-man roster. That remains to be seen.
Meanwhile Casey McGahee's punt return fumble against Calgary will be his last punt return attempt for the Green & White.....
Watch for the full list of cuts later on today.
----
The Roughriders unveiled their new retro jerseys Wednesday afternoon at a fashion show at Northgate Mall. You can view the photos here:
http://www.riderville.com/news/press_releases/3257/
Have a great day!
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Pats Fans Get First Dibs
Watch for details next week on ticket availability for the NHL preseason game this September 21 at the Regina Brandt Centre between the Ottawa Senators and Tampa Bay Lightning.
I've been told Regina Pats season ticket holders WILL get first rights to their tickets for the game.
You can purchase your Pats season tickets at the Pats office in the west end of the Brandt Centre, or my calling 522-PATS. Also, www.reginapats.com.
More details to come.....
Lions Cut Down
Lions release 11 entering 2009 regular season
(Vancouver) BC Lions GM and head coach Wally Buono trimmed his roster by 11 names this morning as the club nears the CFL-mandated roster of 46 active players and a seven-man practice roster. Among the players released were second-year defensive lineman Caesar Rayford and veteran defensive lineman Kyle Mitchell.
"These decisions are never easy, but I am confident that the team we are assembling will be very competitive and give our fans plenty to cheer about this season," said Buono.
Other players released include:
56 - Josh Bean (LB)
23 - Damian Sims (RB)
40 - David Mills (LS)
85 - Otis Amey (WR)
43 - Trestin George (DB)
66 - Darren Marquez (OL)
20 – Mike McEachern (S)
96 - Melik Brown (DL)
62 - Matt Morencie (OL)
The Lions travel to Regina on Friday, July 3rd to open the 2009 regular season versus the Saskatchewan Roughriders. The Leos open their 2009 home schedule against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats on Friday, July 10th at 7:30 pm.
(Vancouver) BC Lions GM and head coach Wally Buono trimmed his roster by 11 names this morning as the club nears the CFL-mandated roster of 46 active players and a seven-man practice roster. Among the players released were second-year defensive lineman Caesar Rayford and veteran defensive lineman Kyle Mitchell.
"These decisions are never easy, but I am confident that the team we are assembling will be very competitive and give our fans plenty to cheer about this season," said Buono.
Other players released include:
56 - Josh Bean (LB)
23 - Damian Sims (RB)
40 - David Mills (LS)
85 - Otis Amey (WR)
43 - Trestin George (DB)
66 - Darren Marquez (OL)
20 – Mike McEachern (S)
96 - Melik Brown (DL)
62 - Matt Morencie (OL)
The Lions travel to Regina on Friday, July 3rd to open the 2009 regular season versus the Saskatchewan Roughriders. The Leos open their 2009 home schedule against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats on Friday, July 10th at 7:30 pm.
Rider Highlights Courtesy CTV
THANKS TO CHRIS HODGES OF CTV REGINA FOR THIS!
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The Roughriders get the day off today with no media availability.
Talk about the game with us tonight on 620 CKRM's Belmont Tire Rider Coaches Show at 6:05pm MT live from the Press Box Sports Bar.
Until then, I'd like to hear your thoughts on the game in the Comments section..
Have a great day!
RP
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Stampeders 27 Roughriders 19
The Saskatchewan Roughriders hosted the defending Grey Cup champion Calgary Stampeders Tuesday night at Mosaic Stadium in Canadian Football League preseason action. The Riders went in with an 0-1 exhibition record while the Stamps were 1-0.
It was a beautiful, yet breezy, night for Canadian football The temperature was 24 degrees Celsius at game time, or 75 above Fahrenheit. There was a stiff northwest wind at 41, gusting to 54 kilometres an hour at the 7:08pm local time kickoff. The Stampeders wore their red road uniforms while the Riders were adorned in their home white jerseys.
The Riders won the coin toss and deferred to the second half. The Stampeders took the ball and the wind to open the game, defending the north endzone. An illegal kickoff allowed them to start at their 45-yard line.
But the drive was shortlived. Veteran Rider DB Eddie Davis picked off Henry Burris at the Rider 50-yard line for the first turnover of the night.
Rider quarterback Steven Jyles was 2-and-out on Saskatchewan's first drive.
The Stamps opened the scoring at 7:03 of the opening quarter on a 5-yard touchdown run by tailback Joffrey Reynolds. It was a nine play, 79-yard drive. 7-0 Calgary.
The Roughriders were unable to establish anything on offense in the first quarter, and after the opening 15 minutes they trailed by a touchdown. The Stamps had eight first downs to the Riders' one. Jyles was 2/5 passing for 25 yards. Burris was 11/15 for 127 yards in the first quarter.
Calgary opened the second with a 28-yard field goal from Sandro Deangelis to make it 10-0 for the visitors.
The Riders finally got on the board when rookie tailback Justin Beaver scored on a 2-yard run at 4:47 to cap a nine yard, 80-yard drive engineered by Rider quarterback Darian Durant to make it 10-7 Stamps.
Tense moments for Saskatchewan midway through the second quarter when 15-year veteran offensive lineman Gene Makowsky went out of the game with a leg injury. He was replaced by Regina Thunder lineman Dan Clark at left guard.
Riders forced a second Calgary turnover when Stevie Baggs forced a Henry Burris fumble at the Stamps' 34-yard line. One play later, Durant found Andy Fantuz for a 34-yard touchdown toss with 3:11 left in the half. 14-10 Saskatchewan.
The Stamps took the lead back with 0:32 left in the first half when he hit Jabari Arthur in the back of the endzone for a 4-yard touchdown reception. 17-14 Calgary at halftime.
Durant was charged with an interception with 0:04 left in the half as his pass to Weston Dressler was tipped into the hands of Calgary linebacker Dwaine Carpenter. The Stamps lined up a 36-yard field goal but Deangelis was wide right and Saskatchewan returner Casey McGahee brought it out of the end zone so the Stamps were unable to capitalize on the turnover.
At halftime, it was 17-14 Calgary.
"We did execute some defense and got some takeaways and scored some touchdowns so that's good. I didn't like that turnover at the end but both quarterbacks moved the ball a little bit," said Rider coach Ken Miller at halftime.
"We will see some changes in the second half on offense. The starters will play a series, then we'll put in the back-ups.
Dalton Bell started the opening drive of the second half at quarterback for Saskatchewan but was unable to generate much offense and Saskatchewan was forced to punt on its first possession.
Stevie Baggs forced another fumble with 9:16 left to go in the third quarter, punching the ball free from Calgary running back Derek Watson and returning it to the Calgary 52-yard line. Again however, the Riders were forced to punt. Luca Congi replaced Jamie Boreham as the punter and his first kicks travelled 51 and 54 yards.
Former Rider Drew Tate led the Stamps on a 104-yard drive which ended in a 10-yard field goal by Deangelis and the Stamps went up 20-14 with 1:17 left to play in the third quarter. They carried it over into the fourth.
The Riders got two points back when Calgary punter Burke Dales conceded a safety with 12:54 left in the game, making the score 20-16 for the Stamps.
Matt D'Orazio came on for the next Calgary drive. He and Tate are battling for the third spot on the Stampeder quarterback depth chart. He was unable to move the football on his first possession.
Saskatchewan made it a one point game when Luca Congi hit a 32-yard field goal with 4:25 left to play. The drive was engineered by Dalton Bell, covering six plays and 58 yards.
Exciting!
UNTIL Rider rookie Casey McGahee fumbled a punt return at the Rider five yard line and Stamps' defensive end Juwan Simpson scooped and scored from five yards out to make it 27-19 Calgary.
Rookie Rider quarterback Juan Joseph came in to finish the game with Saskatchewan down eight points. He was unable to rally the team to victory as the Stampeders and quarterback Matt D'Orazio rode to victory.
Game over. Calgary 27 Saskatchewan 19
"This means a lot because you always want to win," said the Riders' defensive game star Stevie Baggs after the game. "It's all serious business anytime you're in between these lines. But I'm optimistic about this team. We have a great nucleus here."
The outcome was sweet revenge for former Rider quarterback Drew Tate. He came in and led his team to its second straight preseason victory in his former stadium.
"All I remember was that first drive," Tate told CKRM Radio after the game. "We took one play at a time and we did that. I won't sleep well tonight because I missed the one pass in the endzone. But we're fitting in well."
"I'm very very blessed with the people around me in Calgary. Coach Cortez, Coach Dickenson, Coach Hufnagel. I couldn't be in a better place thatn Calgary.
For head coach Ken Miller, it allowed him to learn quite a bit about his Roughriders.
"We found out that we can move the football some and that we can get some takeaways and get some returns.
Miller talked about the unfortunate gaffe by McGahee which put the game out of reach.
"That's a catch he makes all the time but it was a tough break for him. He won't do it again."
Miller said there were several reasons to be optimistic about the game.
"I was pleased with Darian and really Steven too in the first quarter especially when the wind got up there. I was pleased with both of them."
"Our special teams are covering really well and our returns are better than I can remember. We didn't have a great chance for our star guys but that corner route to Andy Fantuz was special. And I was really impressed with Luca Congi tonight."
And Miller reported some bad news as well.
"There were bright spots but also some dark spots and that includes Gene Makowsky who's probably going to be out three weeks or so."
The Roughriders will make their final cuts this weekend, and then open the regular season Friday, July 3 at home against the B.C. Lions.
(Rod Pedersen is the Voice of the Riders on 620 CKRM Radio)
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Big Flames News
TSN.ca ALERT: The Flames name Brent Sutter head coach and add Ryan McGill, Dave Lowry and Jamie McLennan as assistant coaches.
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Question: Should I provide game updates on Twitter tonight? Just wondering if there's enough interest...
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Everett Silvertips Vice President / General Manager Doug Soetaert introduced Craig Hartsburg as the club's new Head Coach at a press conference Tuesday afternoon at Comcast Arena.
Hartsburg, 49, is a veteran of the National Hockey League and Canadian Hockey League coaching ranks, having coached 491 games through seven seasons as Head Coach of the Chicago Blackhawks, Mighty Ducks of Anaheim and Ottawa Senators. In his first season as an NHL Head Coach in 1995-96, he piloted a Blackhawks team that swept the Calgary Flames four games to zero in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs before falling in six games to the eventual Stanley Cup Champion Colorado Avalanche.
Having coached both of Team Canada's gold-medal winning teams at the 2007 and 2008 IIHF World Junior Championships, Hartsburg has developed a consistent coaching record in the Major Junior ranks, having won three divisional titles in his six years behind the bench of the Guelph Storm and Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds.
IT'S TIME!
I was going to save the title "IT'S TIME!" for the July 3 home opener against the B.C. Lions but to be honest, all the emotions for tonight's Roughriders-Stampeders tilt are ramped right up at the level of a regular season game so let's have at it!Here are a few notes from today's In The Huddle taping, which airs tonight at 7:00pm across the province on all Access TV affiliates. If you're going to the game, don't worry. The show will air again Thursday night at 7:00pm as well:
- Matt Dominguez never lets me down when I need a guest and 88 was there for us today for this week's episode of Huddle. What did we learn? Well Matt was informally contacted by both the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and Hamilton TigerCats prior to the season. At the time, his leg strength wasn't where it needed to be. However now it is and he hopes to perhaps be playing for a CFL team at some point this season. His preference of course would be with the Roughriders.
What did Matt say about a possible foray into coaching? Check out the show to find out the answer!
- We have totally pimped out Calgary Stampeders broadcaster Mark Stephen this week and for that I feel somewhat guilty. He appeared on Sportsline last night, he'll be on Roughrider Warmup tonight, and he also guested with us in-studio on Huddle.
We had a ton of laughs with MARK STEPHEN and he poked some fun at the old guy John Lynch.
Asked how he feels about our moniker "Canada's Team" for the Saskatchewan Roughriders, Mark responded "I would probably use another term."
- We tossed around the notion of whether or not the Riders' sellout streak should end if tonight's preseason clash isn't soldout. Mark says NO it should not count. It's a poorly-planned midweek game by the CFL and has made it nearly impossible for a lot of Rider Priders to be in attendance.
I have a sneaking suspicion we won't have to worry about it, as tonight's game will in fact be announced as a sellout. That's JUST my opinion, with no insight from the Riders themselves.
- It's taken 10 seasons but I'm finally at a point as Voice of the Riders that I can relax and fully enjoy a game day instead of obsessing over the broadcast and psyching myself out. All the prep work is done and I'm tremendously excited for the contest!
Talk to you tonight!
RP
Asked how he feels about our moniker "Canada's Team" for the Saskatchewan Roughriders, Mark responded "I would probably use another term."
- We tossed around the notion of whether or not the Riders' sellout streak should end if tonight's preseason clash isn't soldout. Mark says NO it should not count. It's a poorly-planned midweek game by the CFL and has made it nearly impossible for a lot of Rider Priders to be in attendance.
I have a sneaking suspicion we won't have to worry about it, as tonight's game will in fact be announced as a sellout. That's JUST my opinion, with no insight from the Riders themselves.
- It's taken 10 seasons but I'm finally at a point as Voice of the Riders that I can relax and fully enjoy a game day instead of obsessing over the broadcast and psyching myself out. All the prep work is done and I'm tremendously excited for the contest!
Talk to you tonight!
RP
GAME DAY
Mosaic Stadium in Regina is the place to be tonight as the Saskatchewan Roughriders host the Calgary Stampeders at 7:00pm on the 620 CKRM Rider Radio Network!
We'll have a minimum of seven hours of coverage on Rider Radio 620 CKRM, beginning at 4:30pm with the Touchdown Club with the guys above: from left - John Lynch, Marshall Hamilton and Joe Hadesbeck. That photo was snapped last night during 620 CKRM's Sportsline.Here are some pregame thoughts:
- New Rider Radio analyst Marshall Hamilton was a hit on Sportsline last night. The former Roughrider safety (1981-83) explained what it means for Steven Jyles to supplant Darian Durant as the starting quarterback for tonight's game:
"There are two points that need to be made but to directly answer that question, it hurts. It hurts a lot. What happens with a football player, is everyday when you walk into the locker room you look at the board and see where you are on the depth chart. If you've always been first, then the first day you see yourself second, it hurts immensely. You may not show it, but there isn't a player than can admit to me that it doesn't hurt."
"But, it's how you react to that. Do you hurt and pout and make excuses? Or do you say to yourself and to others, 'watch me now and I'll show you who the #1 is' so it'll be interesting to see how Durant reacts to this."
"The other comment I want to make related to this is not to judge a book by the first few pages. It's really hard to judge preseason games because you're playing vanilla offense against vanilla defense and you're trying to see the competitive level of the athletes. It's different when you get into a regular season game and coaches earn their money game-planning and coming up with strategy. You don't do that in exhibition games. So maybe Durant's one of those players that really comes to life when the games mean a lot. Some of us are practice players and some of us are game players. So it'll be interesting to see."
- I got a text from a good friend last night during Sportsline saying we were making WAY too much out of this quarterback issue, and the fact Steven Jyles starts tonight against Calgary. Stan The Fan phoned in to the show from Saskatoon to say the same thing.
Guess what guys? It's what everybody's talking about. The last time I checked, there was a 13-page thread on the message board about this.
Everybody loves the fact that Rider Pride has exploded and the team is more popular than ever before BUT you have to realize then, that little issues such as the starting quarterback in a PRESEASON game are going to be scrutinized endlessly here in Football Country.
And it's fun.
- I love the slogan "Football Country". Or "This Is Football Country". I hope the Riders use it one day.
- A few people asked in my "Last Saskatchewan Pirate" poll, just what exactly is it?? Well, it's the third quarter song they play at Mosaic Stadium during Rider games. Personally, I love it. I love the job they do with it on the MaxTron. I always thought it was written and performed by The Johnner Brothers but apparently it's not. And if you check the poll results, the vast majority of Rider fans are in favour of it.
- I asked the girls in the ticket office what the ticket count is for tonight's game and they said they were asked not to say. Suffice it to say our streak of 18-consecutive sellouts is in jeopardy.
Last night John Lynch said a preseason game shouldn't count. I said if it were the Eskimos who failed to sellout a preseason game after a lengthy sellout streak would he say THEIR shutout streak ended? He said yes.
So if we don't sellout tonight, we're starting all over from scratch.
DON'T LET THAT HAPPEN! The forecast for tonight is clear and 11-degrees celsius.
- As devastated as the Rider Nation was over the 33 point stomping at the hands of the Eskimos, Edmonton fans are at the other end of the emotional spectrum. My old Score Sports Network cameraman Trevor Bothorel reports they're planning a Grey Cup parade route down Jasper Avenue because of that win.
And Marshall said last night if WE'D won by 33 points, it would be US planning the parade.
God bless the fans.
- Very disappointed to see Stampeders owner Ted Hellard didn't shell out the dough to buy a Grey Cup ring for broadcaster Mark Stephen. Mark does a lot for that club.
- Mark will appear on In The Huddle tonight at 7:00pm on Access 7 across the province. So too will Matt Dominguez.
- Other battles we're watching tonight: Who emerges at tailback out of Hugh Charles, Stu Foord, Jason Geathers and Justin Beaver? Who wins the DE battle between Stevie Baggs, Joe Sykes and Seante Williams? I'm told John Chick is cemented in at the other end spot.
Who emerges as the top five (or six) receiver group out of the plethora of talent that's here? Does Tad Kornegay hang onto the WILL linebacker position or does someone supplant him? Will it be decided tonight? His team-leading seven tackles last week doesn't mean squat. Maybe the Esks were avoiding Sean Lucas on the other side.
The secondary of course has some question marks, but not really. The stalwarts of Omarr Morgan, Eddie Davis and Lance Frazier aren't challenged and James Patrick has basically won the safety job. So who's the Canadian corner going to be? We'll find out tonight.
Lynch said he wants to see one Rider quarterback stand out tonight. Marshall said he wants to see THREE Rider quarterbacks stand out tonight.
- Yesterday I mentioned Don Beaver has signed up for my Rider updates on Twitter. I asked Justin yesterday who that is, and he reported it's his GRANDPA! Great stuff. Glad to have you aboard Mr. Beaver.
- I realize that for about 30,000 of you, tonight's your first chance to get an eyeball of the 2009 Saskatchewan Roughriders because you haven't been able to make it down to training camp. I'd love to hear your thoughts on the team after the game.
LEAVE A COMMENT!
Dear God.The guys in this pic WON'T be at the Rider game tonight. These are my boys headed to Saskatoon for the Maxim/Coors Light Golf Event at Moon Lake today. They sent this Blackberry photo this morning just before their departure from J.D.'s Night Club.
Boys, PLEASE try to keep your clothes on on the golf course this year.
Wish I could be there..
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I'm sure if I thought a little more I could come up with some more stuff but I've got to get going and prep for tonight's broadcast.
HAVE A GREAT DAY
RP
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I'm sure if I thought a little more I could come up with some more stuff but I've got to get going and prep for tonight's broadcast.
HAVE A GREAT DAY
RP
From Today's Star Phoenix & P.A. Daily Herald
Jaeger brought Raiders to life on airwaves
P.A. broadcaster died Sunday at 72
By Kevin Mitchell, The StarPhoenix
The hockey and broadcast worlds are mourning the death Sunday of Morley Jaeger, whose vocal chords painted compelling pictures of the Prince Albert Raiders' rise to prominence in the 1970s and 1980s.
Jaeger, who died at age 72, chronicled the Raiders' fortunes from 1972 through 1988 as the play-by-play man for CKBI Radio. He called four Centennial Cup champions and their 1985 Memorial Cup title run.
Jaeger earned wide respect for his formidable talents in the booth.
"I actually think he was ahead of his time in regards to calling play-by-play back then. He was that awesome," says Rod Pedersen, currently the radio voice of both the Regina Pats and the Saskatchewan Roughriders. "I don't know why he never moved on to the NHL, because he had that ability. He was easily as good as anybody in the NHL today; no two ways about it."
Pedersen was in Prince Albert with the Pats last season when the Raiders honoured the ailing ex-broadcaster. They played clips of Jaeger's calls from Centennial and Memorial Cups, a moment Pedersen calls "spine-tingling."
Pedersen recalled sitting in the broadcast booth with Jaeger as a visiting youngster who was interested in the profession.
"It was like being next to God, for a 12-year-old kid," said Pedersen.
"Somebody wrote into my blog today saying 'No offence, Rod, but Morley really made the game come alive.' That's not an insult to me. Morley did. He's the kind of guy that jumps out of the radio at you. That's something I've tried to emulate, and I don't think I've got it yet.
"There's a lot of guys in this business who, as they get older and they're not in the role anymore, they get really bitter," he added. "They treat younger guys like crap. Morley was never, ever, ever that way. Every time I saw him he always came up and we'd talk for 45 minutes to an hour. He was always nice, always smiling, always great to me. I've vowed to always try to be that way, too."
Prince Albert Mayor Jim Scarrow, previously CKBI's vice-president and general manager, noted Jaeger's job extended beyond hockey. He covered a wide variety of area sports, from the high schools to curling to softball. Jaeger was never shy about expressing his opinion -- "a hard-core sportscaster," Scarrow said -- and went on to serve as a Prince Albert city councillor when his broadcasting days ended.
Jaeger called 1,272 games and was selected the Raiders' top broadcaster during a fan vote to mark the team's 30th anniversary in 2001-02. The broadcast booth on the north side of Art Hauser Centre was renamed the Morley Jaeger Broadcast Booth last season.
Details on a celebration of Jaeger's life will be announced shortly.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Jyles Starts // Hartsburg To Everett
Just announced at Mosaic Stadium. Steven Jyles, Darian Durant and Dalton Bell will each get a quarter tomorrow night against Calgary, in that order.
Sounds like the fourth quarter will be decided by whom performs the best out of those three...
RP
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STAMPS RELEASE ARMOUR AND SIX OTHERS
The Calgary Stampeders have released veteran linebacker JoJuan Armour and six rookies: Running back Reggie Bradshaw, receiver Derrick Smith, defensive lineman Remond Willis, defensive back Dee McCann, offensive lineman Chad Cossette and defensive linemen Ronald Hilaire.
“It’s never easy to release someone who contributed to a championship season, so I’m very disappointed to have to make this announcement about JoJuan today,” said head coach/general manager John Hufnagel. “We have a very clear policy on team discipline, whether it’s on the practice field, during games or off the field.
“JoJuan chose not to follow that policy recently during practice and, as a result, I’ve made this decision. He played an important role on our football team last year but we’re going in a different direction for 2009.”
Armour joined the Stamps prior to the 2008 Canadian Football League season and played all 18 regular-season games, in addition to the West Final and Grey Cup victory.
**Mark it down -- Riders have no interest in Armour.
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Press Conference Scheduled for 12:30 pm PT Tuesday
The Everett Silvertips have scheduled a press conference for 12:30 pm Pacific Time Tuesday afternoon in Conference Room #2 at the Edward D. Hansen Conference Center at Comcast Arena. The event, which will introduce the club's new head coach, is open to the public and the media.
BLOGGER NOTE -- It will be Craig Hartsburg.
The Monday Morning Goalie
Now, a rapid fire look through the week that was, and what's ahead..
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Father's Day for me was spent marching around Wascana Lake in that monsoon for the Safeway Father's Day Walk/Run For Prostate Cancer Research. I was happy to be a part of the Kaminski Southland Mall Safeway team.
We did the walk in 43 minutes. Does anyone know what the personal record is to sprint the 5K around Wascana Lake?
By the way, we officially had 17 millimetres of rain on Sunday. What's that, around an inch?
Craven led the way with 3 and 3/4 inches of rain.
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The heavy rains forced the Riders to cut Sunday's workout short by 45 minutes, and delayed the decision on a quarterback rotation for tomorrow's game against Calgary until today.
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Okay folks, he DEFINITELY isn't our Richie Hall anymore. But we can still love him.
Some CFL insiders have told me the rookie Edmonton Eskimo coach wanted to stomp his former team last week. And the Esks did just that, to the tune of 45-12.
Richie hinted this to reporters the day before the game; when he was passed over for the head coaching job in Saskatchewan after almost two decades with the club, he knew soon it would be time to move on.
Hey, it's human nature. Can't blame the guy.
I'd go so far as to put Richie in the top-3 human beings I've had the pleasure of meeting. But he has an EXTREME competitive edge that isn't necessarily always visible to the public.
Yes, he's an Eskimo now and he didn't mind putting the boots to the /=S=/.
Now, IT'S ON!
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Speaking of, watch out for the Edmonton Eskimo defense in 2009. They're gonna be scary good.
Jim Daley, their coordinator, has a twinkle in his eye that I haven't seen in more than decade. After being fired in Saskatchewan, Winnipeg and being shuffled out of the CFL office, he looked beaten and worn down.
Now he has the exuberance of a kid. In The Huddle analyst Ventson Donelson says Daley's the best coordinator he's ever had.
That can't be good for the rest of the CFL teams. And the crazy thing is not many people could name five starters on their defense.
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Tony Playter will leave the Roughriders in two weeks' time for his new media/public relations position at SGI with his head held high and happy he's leaving the Roughriders on good terms.
It's hard not to envy him. I'm going to give this media thing a few more years, but then I wouldn't mind moving into a role such as that. I think I could help these corporations spreading their good word.
My government friends actually tell me they have money left over at the end of the month. What a nice feeling that would be!
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The Winnipeg Blue Bombers spanked Hamilton last week at Canad Inns Stadium which will only bolster the confidence of new coach Mike Kelly.
Is is just me, or are the Blue Bombers entirely about Mike Kelly in 2009? To me, it's the most interesting storyline in the CFL this year.
CKRM's Roger Currie was at the Bomber-Ticat game and reports to me this morning Winnipeg looked efficient and Bomber quarterback Stefan Lefors looked very good.
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Nice attempt to throw B.C. Lions owner David Braley under the bus last week for secretly funding the Toronto Argonauts.
However it seems to me that everybody associated with the CFL should be smooching Braley's butt at the corner of Albert St. and Saskatchewan Drive for all he's done to save this league over the years.
The story fizzled almost as quickly as it broke.
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Couldn't help but notice in the Leader Post classifieds this ad on Saturday:
"JASON CLARMONT B.C. jersey $350 586-5825"
Wow! If that's going for $350, what's a CLERMONT jersey going for????
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An interesting name signed up on the weekend for my Rider updates on Twitter. The name is "Don Beaver".
Any chance he's related to Rider running back hopeful Justin Beaver? I bet he is.
Justin's looking for a place to stay in town, so I assume the team has plans for him. At the very least, on the practice roster.
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Veteran Rider receiver Chris Getzlaf is nothing short of amazing most days at practice.
As one practice observer noted the other day, "Getzlaf's caught everything but the Swine Flu."
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From the blog of Mitchell Blair:
"Sitting at practice today with Rod Pedersen, he was saying how Bryan Hall sings an Eskimo fight song at the end of the 3rd quarter. It was suggested by outgoing football operations co-ordinator Tony Playter that Rod should do the same thing. Imagine what it would be like when the 3rd quarter ends and the Maxtron Crew focuses their cameras on Rod who would lead the crowd into a stirring rendition of "Green is the Colour". It would be like Harry Caray singing "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" at Wrigley Field. Hey, it would be better than Worksafe Bob stretching while they play "The Last Saskatchewan Pirate". I hate that song!!!! I know I'm likely in the moral minority when I say that, but I do!"
Thanks Scruffy, but there are three things wrong with that:
1) I hate singing
B) I love The Last Saskatchewan Pirate and...
3) The 3rd quarter stretch is a bathroom break for me!
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The hiring of Shaun Sutter as assistant coach by the Regina Pats one week ago today is getting a universal "thumbs-up" from the hockey people I've spoken with.
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In case you've lost touch with hockey since the season ended, the big story in the NHL right now is Calgary's hiring of Brent Sutter to coach the Flames. Well it hasn't happened ......... yet.
It was big news on the weekend, with the Calgary Sun predicting Brent would be hired yesterday.
An announcement is expected on that any day by Brent's older brother Darryl, G.M. of the Flames.
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The WHL lost a legend on Sunday. The full details are in the post below.
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The Ottawa Senators will oppose the Tampa Bay Lightning in the Regina Brandt Centre on September 21, 2009.
And I'll finally get to realize my dream of broadcasting a National Hockey League game on that Monday night.
Can't wait! I'll pass along ticket details as soon as I get them.
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My Mom always says "Youth is wasted on the young."
She's right. I'd rather not go back to age 20, and not knowing spit about the world.
Last Thursday in the Calgary airport, Jeremy O'Day and I approached Walter Gretzky and asked him if we could get a photo with him.
The world's most famous hockey Dad gratefully obliged, but then it started a steady stream of photograph hounds which lasted about half an hour.
As we were walking away, some young punk with his hat on sideways said to J.O. and me, "who is that old guy? Somebody famous?"
I would HATE to be so uneducated.
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The sunflower seeds along the sidelines at Taylor Field are unsightly.
You could lose you life over that at McMahon Stadium. They keep their turf immaculate.
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You would think world famous Elvis impersonator Rory Allen of Regina would be home resting on the day of his soldout show in the Casino Regina Show Lounge on Friday.
Nope. There he was, pushing a shopping cart through the aisles of Costco the day of the show.
Just a regular Joe. That's why we love him!
And he says to me, "what do I have to do to get my new single played on CKRM? Call Paul Hill?"
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WHL broadcasters Craig West (Tri-City), Mike Boyle (Spokane) and Thom Beuning (Seattle) are starting a movement to get Boise, Idaho into the Dub.
Have a peek at a map! The idea's not so far-fetched. And the U.S. Division could use another club.
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Congrats to Claude Julien of the Boston Bruins for being named NHL Coach of the Year last week in Las Vegas.
He can now make a career of that, a la Don Cherry, who's still making the most of winning that award 30 years later.
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PGA insiders have let it be known Phil Mickelson isn't really the smiley-faced jolly-good-fellow that he appears to be on TV.
They say his nickname is FIGJAM which stands for: F--- I'm Good Just Ask Me.
I don't know. I can't buy it. He just appears to be a good wholesome guy and until I see otherwise, I'll continue to pull for him.
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ESPN Radio talk-host Colin Cowherd says the blog fad is dying.
He cites statistics that say 90% of blogs haven't been updated in 120 days.
Well, count this one in the 10% that are thriving.
And it's not going away.....
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The City of Regina looks GORGEOUS this time of year!
Get out and enjoy it.
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Plenty of tickets remain for tomorrow's Stampeders-Riders tilt at Mosaic Stadium.
Snap yours up today! It should be a great showdown and I know for many of you it'll be your first chance to get an eyeball of the 2009 Riders.
And let's not let out sellout streak die! What's it at, 18 straight games??
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CKRM's coverage begins at 4:30pm tomorrow with the Touchdown Club live from the practice field.
New Rider Radio analyst Marshall Hamilton will make his CKRM debut tonight on Sportsline at 6:05pm MT.
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I read last week that Bill Clinton never wears the same pair of socks twice.
You can do that if you buy your socks at Dollarama! They've actually got good socks there.
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No movie review on this week's edition.
With football starting up, there's not much time to catch a flick. Although, we were gonna go watch The Hangover for a second time on Friday night. Alas, it was too late for us.
Maybe we'll hit it again once it shows up in the cheap theatre.
But yes, it's THAT good!
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HAVE A GREAT WEEK!
RP
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Morley Jaeger Passes Away
Prince Albert, Saskatchewan - It is with sadness the Prince Albert Raiders announce that Morley Richard Jaeger, long time broadcaster of the team, passed away Sunday afternoon at age 72.
Morley Jaeger did the play by play broadcast of 16 seasons of Prince Albert Raider hockey totaling 1,272 games on 900 CKBI. He began during the first season of the Raiders in 1972 and continued through 1988. Jaeger broadcast all four Centennial Cup Championship games when the team was in Junior A and did the play by play of the Raiders Memorial Cup Championship in 1985 when they defeated the Shawinigan Cataracts 6-1.
In voting by fans, Jaeger was selected Top Broadcaster of the Raiders during the 30th Anniversary season of 2001-02.
On November 15, 2008 the Raiders honoured Jaeger during their annual Wall of Honour Night when the broadcast booth on the north side of the Art Hauser Centre was renamed the "Morley Jaeger Broadcast Booth".
Details of a Celebration of the Life of Morley Jaeger are pending and will be announced early this week.
Morley Jaeger did the play by play broadcast of 16 seasons of Prince Albert Raider hockey totaling 1,272 games on 900 CKBI. He began during the first season of the Raiders in 1972 and continued through 1988. Jaeger broadcast all four Centennial Cup Championship games when the team was in Junior A and did the play by play of the Raiders Memorial Cup Championship in 1985 when they defeated the Shawinigan Cataracts 6-1.
In voting by fans, Jaeger was selected Top Broadcaster of the Raiders during the 30th Anniversary season of 2001-02.
On November 15, 2008 the Raiders honoured Jaeger during their annual Wall of Honour Night when the broadcast booth on the north side of the Art Hauser Centre was renamed the "Morley Jaeger Broadcast Booth".
Details of a Celebration of the Life of Morley Jaeger are pending and will be announced early this week.
ROUGHRIDER TRAINING CAMP DAY 15
The following is Sunday's report from the 2009 Saskatchewan Roughrider Training Camp.
ROSTER MOVES
ADD K/P Perri Scarcelli
INJURIES
LB Sam Olajubutu (calf) day to day
RB Neal Hughes (leg) day to day
WR Adam Nicolson (hamstring) day to day
PLAYS OF THE DAY
In a rain-soaked practice at Mosaic Stadium it was the defence that stood out in the morning session. Veteran linebacker Sean Lucas snagged an interception in the end zone, while rookie defensive back Daniel Francis picked the ball out of the air after bouncing off a receivers shoe.
TONIGHT
Players will take part in meetings with their coaches at Luther College as their prepare for their second exhibition game against Calgary on Tuesday.
TOMORROW
Players and coaches will be back on the field at 10:30 am for a walk-thru at Mosaic Stadium.
ROSTER MOVES
ADD K/P Perri Scarcelli
INJURIES
LB Sam Olajubutu (calf) day to day
RB Neal Hughes (leg) day to day
WR Adam Nicolson (hamstring) day to day
PLAYS OF THE DAY
In a rain-soaked practice at Mosaic Stadium it was the defence that stood out in the morning session. Veteran linebacker Sean Lucas snagged an interception in the end zone, while rookie defensive back Daniel Francis picked the ball out of the air after bouncing off a receivers shoe.
TONIGHT
Players will take part in meetings with their coaches at Luther College as their prepare for their second exhibition game against Calgary on Tuesday.
TOMORROW
Players and coaches will be back on the field at 10:30 am for a walk-thru at Mosaic Stadium.
"An Unthinkable Grade"
I had a choice of whether to go to Roughrider practice Saturday morning, or the football club's Annual General Meeting at the Delta Regina since the two ran concurrently. I opted to be outside at Mosaic Stadium, and I'm glad I did as there were plenty of interesting quotes to be had.....
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Rider defensive coordinator Gary Etcheverry is an interesting cat. He views the game of football - and the world - much differently than the rest of us. For instance some coaches (in fact most I think) couldn't give a rat's butt about what the fans think but today Etch empathized with the Rider Nation in the wake of Wednesday's 33-point loss at Edmonton.
And he was a harsh grader of his team's defense based on this week's performance.
Here's the interview Etcheverry did with CTV's Dan MacIntosh:
Q. Can you give a sense of where the team is at? Fans seem to be making conclusions based on Wednesday's 45-12 loss in Edmonton...
ETCH: "First of all we want to win everything that we do and certainly we wanted to win the other night. We prioritize the first two games as trying to pick the team and that helped us along the way and Tuesday's game against Calgary will as well."
"We did some good things very well, especially in the first half and some things not so well. We certainly have lots of room for improvement."
Q. What would be the marks if you were grading the performance?
ETCH: "I'm a hard grader so I'd probably give the first half a C+ and I'd give the second half an unthinkable grade."
Q. What do you have to work on now?
ETCH: "First we have to pick the team and that'll be different. There's going to be great football players that won't be on our team. That's a very difficult, painful process but at the same time the competition breeds what we believe will be a strong football team."
"I know this is a time period where the fans -- and the fans are central to everything we do -- I don't know how many fans could tell us the win-loss record of the exhibition season of 2007, or even 2008. I couldn't tell you what it was so...."
And again, I remind people the 0-16 Detroit Lions of 2008 were 4-0 in exhibition games.
----
OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR PAUL LAPOLICE
Q. Where is the team at right now?
LAPO: "The first thing we look at is that we wanted to evaluate our young players. Fantuz and Dressler each played nine plays in the game so we had a young crew of receivers in the game. But we did talk to them that every team in the league has young players and we need them to execute at a much higher level. We're correcting our mistakes and as we get more cohesive with more reps, we're going to be fine."
Q. Do you like where you're at on the timeline?
LAPO: "Yah. We've installed some new concepts this week and the guys have really picked them up and they're working hard."
Q. Are you confident someone's going to emerge at quarterback?
LAPO: "Absolutely. We brought these four quarterbacks here because we know they have the ability to be good players. We just have to get them to relax and not press and hey, it's about not forcing things and just getting the ball into the playmakers' hands."
Q. Durant going to start Tuesday?
LAPO: "We'll discuss that today."
Q. With Wes Cates out will you hand off more on Tuesday to get a look at your running backs?
LAPO: "Yah. When you get behind, we had run plays called early but sometimes they force you to pull the football. Part of our process was to evaluate some of those things. This week you'll see Hugh Charles, and all the running backs. The other night we had some guys who hadn't played a lot in camp, like Wagner (converted from LB to RB) so we just threw more."
Q. Is Hugh Charles and Stu Foord at the top of your depth chart?
LAPO: "Yah. And let me tell you Stu Foord's first run the other night was perfect but they fitted the safety down perfectly so they had want they wanted but Stu made him miss and got a 20-yard gain. So he did some tremendous things. Hugh and Stu have been tremendous all camp so you'll see those two on Tuesday."
----
HEAD COACH KEN MILLER
Q. Will you hand the ball off more Tuesday against Calgary so you can look at your tailbacks since Wes Cates is injured?
KM: "We really haven't started our game plan for this game yet but we'll think about that. We would like to get some our backs some more touches."
Q. Fans are already panicking. What's the sense of the staff?
KM: "Well we're not panicked. In that game we played our rookies for the most part of that game and we got a really good read on them. It served a purpose for us and we're going to be fine."
Q. Are your decisions on players easier or harder now after that game?
KM: "I think easier. I think we have people who have seperated themselves in both directions."
Q. Do you like where the team is at right now?
KM: "I do like where we're at and you know, you saw the practice today, they worked hard and did things well. We're still installing things and they're not maybe as crisp as we'd like but we're getting there."
Q. Wes Cates was absent today?
KM: "He's not here and won't be here for a few days because of a personal situation."
Q. He's unlikely for Week 1?
KM: "I said that early on and I still think that's the case."
Q. What did you see out of your young O-line (Rempel, Best, Hutchins, Clark, St.Pierre)?
KM: "They were real tenacious. We didn't push their #1 defense back in the run game but in the pass protection they were really pretty good. We had a couple of pass protections that were new for them and there were some mistakes but in the protections they knew, they did very very well."
Q. How hard is it for the QBs to just get a few series, then come out?
KM: "With four quarterbacks you can't a half each and we wanted to play everybody and give them an opportunity. For the first time out, we'll play better."
Q. Any idea what the rotation will be Tuesday?
KM: "I told the offensive coaches Friday night we'll decide after Saturday's practice we'll decide the rotation. There aren't any easy answers. With four quarterbacks, three in the running still to be a starter, the plan that we come up with has yet to be determined."
----
HOPSON'S CONTRACT EXTENDED
Today, the Saskatchewan Roughriders held their 2008-09 Annual General Meeting at the Delta Hotel.
2008-09 AGM ANNOUNCEMENTS
CHAIRMAN’S REPORT
During his chairman’s report, Rob Pletch announced that the Roughrider Board of Directors has extended the contract of the club’s President and CEO Jim Hopson into 2011. Pletch also hinted to the media that 2011 could well be the end of Hopson's tenure with the club.
FINANCIAL REPORT
During his financial report, Craig Reynolds, the Saskatchewan Roughriders’ Chief Financial Officer, revealed the Football Club reported a profit of $1,628,607. The club exceeded the $28 million plateau in total gross revenues, eclipsing the previous high of $22 million.
TICKET SALES
With all time high season ticket sales, ticket revenue reached $8.3 million, an increase of 6.6% over 2007. With 18 straight home game sell outs (over the course of 2007 and 2008 seasons); attendance at Mosaic Stadium also reached an all time high.
RETAIL SALES
With key investments made in upgrading the Club’s retail locations at Northgate Mall and Mosaic Stadium, as well as more sales through the web-store, merchandise sales continued to set records at $6.5 million in 2008-09, an increase of $1.5 million from 2007 (28.5%)
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Under the governance guidelines, the Rider shareholders selected a new Board of Governors at the meeting. Returning to the board this year will be Chairman Rob Pletch and Director’s Dou Emsley, Grant Gayton, Paul Hill, Twyla Meredith, Dennis Mulvihill, Laurie Powers and Doug Rogers. Shareholders also voted in three directors – Vice-Chair Roger Brandvold (re-elected), Rory Picklyk (re-elected) and Joel Teal.
----
ROUGHRIDER TRAINING CAMP DAY 14
The following is the Day 14 report from the 2009 Saskatchewan Roughrider Training Camp.
ROSTER MOVES
ADD DB Carlos Armour
INJURIES
DL Nuvraj Bassi (hip) day to day
LB Sam Olajubutu (calf) day to day
RB Neal Hughes (leg) day to day
WR Adam Nicolson (hamstring) day to day
PLAYS OF THE DAY
Quarterback Steven Jyles connected with rookie receiver Eric Morris for a highlight catch 35 yards downfield. On the defensive side there were plenty of good battles including interceptions by defensive backs James Patrick and Denatay Heard.
TONIGHT
Players will take part in meetings with their coaches at Luther College.
TOMORROW
Players and coaches will be back on the practice field at 8 am for Day 15 of 2009 training camp at Mosaic Stadium.
----
Rider defensive coordinator Gary Etcheverry is an interesting cat. He views the game of football - and the world - much differently than the rest of us. For instance some coaches (in fact most I think) couldn't give a rat's butt about what the fans think but today Etch empathized with the Rider Nation in the wake of Wednesday's 33-point loss at Edmonton.
And he was a harsh grader of his team's defense based on this week's performance.
Here's the interview Etcheverry did with CTV's Dan MacIntosh:
Q. Can you give a sense of where the team is at? Fans seem to be making conclusions based on Wednesday's 45-12 loss in Edmonton...
ETCH: "First of all we want to win everything that we do and certainly we wanted to win the other night. We prioritize the first two games as trying to pick the team and that helped us along the way and Tuesday's game against Calgary will as well."
"We did some good things very well, especially in the first half and some things not so well. We certainly have lots of room for improvement."
Q. What would be the marks if you were grading the performance?
ETCH: "I'm a hard grader so I'd probably give the first half a C+ and I'd give the second half an unthinkable grade."
Q. What do you have to work on now?
ETCH: "First we have to pick the team and that'll be different. There's going to be great football players that won't be on our team. That's a very difficult, painful process but at the same time the competition breeds what we believe will be a strong football team."
"I know this is a time period where the fans -- and the fans are central to everything we do -- I don't know how many fans could tell us the win-loss record of the exhibition season of 2007, or even 2008. I couldn't tell you what it was so...."
And again, I remind people the 0-16 Detroit Lions of 2008 were 4-0 in exhibition games.
----
OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR PAUL LAPOLICE
Q. Where is the team at right now?
LAPO: "The first thing we look at is that we wanted to evaluate our young players. Fantuz and Dressler each played nine plays in the game so we had a young crew of receivers in the game. But we did talk to them that every team in the league has young players and we need them to execute at a much higher level. We're correcting our mistakes and as we get more cohesive with more reps, we're going to be fine."
Q. Do you like where you're at on the timeline?
LAPO: "Yah. We've installed some new concepts this week and the guys have really picked them up and they're working hard."
Q. Are you confident someone's going to emerge at quarterback?
LAPO: "Absolutely. We brought these four quarterbacks here because we know they have the ability to be good players. We just have to get them to relax and not press and hey, it's about not forcing things and just getting the ball into the playmakers' hands."
Q. Durant going to start Tuesday?
LAPO: "We'll discuss that today."
Q. With Wes Cates out will you hand off more on Tuesday to get a look at your running backs?
LAPO: "Yah. When you get behind, we had run plays called early but sometimes they force you to pull the football. Part of our process was to evaluate some of those things. This week you'll see Hugh Charles, and all the running backs. The other night we had some guys who hadn't played a lot in camp, like Wagner (converted from LB to RB) so we just threw more."
Q. Is Hugh Charles and Stu Foord at the top of your depth chart?
LAPO: "Yah. And let me tell you Stu Foord's first run the other night was perfect but they fitted the safety down perfectly so they had want they wanted but Stu made him miss and got a 20-yard gain. So he did some tremendous things. Hugh and Stu have been tremendous all camp so you'll see those two on Tuesday."
----
HEAD COACH KEN MILLER
Q. Will you hand the ball off more Tuesday against Calgary so you can look at your tailbacks since Wes Cates is injured?
KM: "We really haven't started our game plan for this game yet but we'll think about that. We would like to get some our backs some more touches."
Q. Fans are already panicking. What's the sense of the staff?
KM: "Well we're not panicked. In that game we played our rookies for the most part of that game and we got a really good read on them. It served a purpose for us and we're going to be fine."
Q. Are your decisions on players easier or harder now after that game?
KM: "I think easier. I think we have people who have seperated themselves in both directions."
Q. Do you like where the team is at right now?
KM: "I do like where we're at and you know, you saw the practice today, they worked hard and did things well. We're still installing things and they're not maybe as crisp as we'd like but we're getting there."
Q. Wes Cates was absent today?
KM: "He's not here and won't be here for a few days because of a personal situation."
Q. He's unlikely for Week 1?
KM: "I said that early on and I still think that's the case."
Q. What did you see out of your young O-line (Rempel, Best, Hutchins, Clark, St.Pierre)?
KM: "They were real tenacious. We didn't push their #1 defense back in the run game but in the pass protection they were really pretty good. We had a couple of pass protections that were new for them and there were some mistakes but in the protections they knew, they did very very well."
Q. How hard is it for the QBs to just get a few series, then come out?
KM: "With four quarterbacks you can't a half each and we wanted to play everybody and give them an opportunity. For the first time out, we'll play better."
Q. Any idea what the rotation will be Tuesday?
KM: "I told the offensive coaches Friday night we'll decide after Saturday's practice we'll decide the rotation. There aren't any easy answers. With four quarterbacks, three in the running still to be a starter, the plan that we come up with has yet to be determined."
----
HOPSON'S CONTRACT EXTENDED
Today, the Saskatchewan Roughriders held their 2008-09 Annual General Meeting at the Delta Hotel.
2008-09 AGM ANNOUNCEMENTS
CHAIRMAN’S REPORT
During his chairman’s report, Rob Pletch announced that the Roughrider Board of Directors has extended the contract of the club’s President and CEO Jim Hopson into 2011. Pletch also hinted to the media that 2011 could well be the end of Hopson's tenure with the club.
FINANCIAL REPORT
During his financial report, Craig Reynolds, the Saskatchewan Roughriders’ Chief Financial Officer, revealed the Football Club reported a profit of $1,628,607. The club exceeded the $28 million plateau in total gross revenues, eclipsing the previous high of $22 million.
TICKET SALES
With all time high season ticket sales, ticket revenue reached $8.3 million, an increase of 6.6% over 2007. With 18 straight home game sell outs (over the course of 2007 and 2008 seasons); attendance at Mosaic Stadium also reached an all time high.
RETAIL SALES
With key investments made in upgrading the Club’s retail locations at Northgate Mall and Mosaic Stadium, as well as more sales through the web-store, merchandise sales continued to set records at $6.5 million in 2008-09, an increase of $1.5 million from 2007 (28.5%)
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Under the governance guidelines, the Rider shareholders selected a new Board of Governors at the meeting. Returning to the board this year will be Chairman Rob Pletch and Director’s Dou Emsley, Grant Gayton, Paul Hill, Twyla Meredith, Dennis Mulvihill, Laurie Powers and Doug Rogers. Shareholders also voted in three directors – Vice-Chair Roger Brandvold (re-elected), Rory Picklyk (re-elected) and Joel Teal.
----
ROUGHRIDER TRAINING CAMP DAY 14
The following is the Day 14 report from the 2009 Saskatchewan Roughrider Training Camp.
ROSTER MOVES
ADD DB Carlos Armour
INJURIES
DL Nuvraj Bassi (hip) day to day
LB Sam Olajubutu (calf) day to day
RB Neal Hughes (leg) day to day
WR Adam Nicolson (hamstring) day to day
PLAYS OF THE DAY
Quarterback Steven Jyles connected with rookie receiver Eric Morris for a highlight catch 35 yards downfield. On the defensive side there were plenty of good battles including interceptions by defensive backs James Patrick and Denatay Heard.
TONIGHT
Players will take part in meetings with their coaches at Luther College.
TOMORROW
Players and coaches will be back on the practice field at 8 am for Day 15 of 2009 training camp at Mosaic Stadium.
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