Game of Numbers

23, 34, 1, 4, 81, 89, 7....

When the Saskatchewan Roughriders brought in Zach Collaros to compete for starting quarterback of the Saskatchewan Roughriders we all wondered if he'd be wearing number 4.  Cameron Judge is the current rookie player to don that jersey number and then we watched Zach in Regina unveil his 17 jersey, a number which Crezdon Butler wore in 2017.   Butler said he'll wear #5 in 2018 since it has now become available.  It all made me think about the attachment fans have to the numbers CFL players wear, how they change over the years and our memories and feelings.

There was a contest in the LeaderPost to choose a number for Quarterback Henry Burris. Ridernation chose the number 1. It's a number Hank wore throughout his career while Ridernation jeered at him at every game.  Flash forward to Kory Sheets...  his name evokes instant visions of #1 scooping up DD4's near fumble in the 2013 Grey Cup game which likely completely changed the momentum of that game. I wonder if anyone remembers that Marshay Green also wore number 1 and that one of his missed tackles (stood and watched the receiver run by)  had a distinct flavour in a game against Ottawa in 2015.  Jovon Johnson is the current #1 and is a proud member for the second time of the Roughriders who does incredible things for the community through fund raising for Lyme Disease.  His first tour of the Riders was in 2007 but because he felt he didn't deserve it, he regretfully sold his Grey Cup ring. 

Is Rider Nation ready to see another quarterback wear the number four? Part of me is relieved that Collaros didn't take that number.  There's just so many feelings associated with it and I don't think enough time has passed for any of us to see it without evoking some sort of feelings. Now here is another aspect of football numbers - Darian Durant is reportedly due a bonus from the Alouettes and by the time this blog is posted we will likely all know the outcome. He had another dismal season after he failed to negotiate in Saskatchewan he chased the money to Montreal. Now he finds himself in an even tougher situation. Will he take less money this time? That answer was no as later on January 15th it was announced the Montreal Alouettes released the 2013 champ only a year and 2 days after he was traded from Saskatchewan. 

Contracts in the CFL are a big deal. CFL players make far less than American football players and often have second careers to help them make it through the offseason. Players are signing shorter term contracts which is resulting in more movement between teams. It's possible that my 89 may be your 89 in 2018.  Of course I'm thinking about this with Free Agency on the horizon and there are fewer Rider players signed on that list than I'd like. This is the business of football.  Players come, we get attached and often they go on to careers elsewhere. Duron Carter comes to mind as he was the latest player to wear 89 and is currently not signed. The last notable player to wear that number was Chris Getzlaf who upon his arrival back in Regina wore number 84. Getzlaf - a Saskatchewan native,  was very lucky to retire a Rider after 11 seasons in the CFL.

Kevin Glenn triple-ex-Rider number 5 was released shortly after the signing of Zach Collaros. Last year he played in tandem with Canadian number 16 Brandon Bridge. I thought it was cool that the last time the Riders used a tandem style was in 1989 with #5 Kent Austin and #16 Tom Burgess. Monday Kevin Glenn was signed by the Edmonton Eskimos making them the 9th (all of 'em) team to hold Glenn's rights in the CFL.  That's a pretty awesome thing to have happen and will go into the record books for that reason I am sure. Lot's of people like to knock Glenn for not winning a Grey Cup in his career and when you browse his CFL career you'll see that he's missed some championships by just a year.  I don't think it's understood how difficult it is to win a championship in this league. Omar Morgan #1 played his entire career with the Saskatchewan Roughriders except for 2007 in which he was an Eskimo. He retired not winning a Grey Cup and yet Omar and Eddie (Davis #29) are a legendary Riders backfield duo.

Eighty-One.  Superman. Was it a dream or was Geroy Simon really a Saskatchewan Roughrider? It's no matter because 30 year old Bakari Grant holds the number now. Just think, he was 2 years old when Ray Elgaard wore it in 1989.

Lucky number seven. It was worn for many years by Weston Dressler and for a time his jersey was the highest selling jersey in the Rider store. Next came Justin Cappiocotti and well...that didn't turn out.  Then came in a player newly released from the NFL in the form of Willie Jefferson and the #7 has never looked so good.  We often rush to buy the jerseys while merchandisers lick their salivating lips as they rake in the money for a customized jersey. But not so fast! Remember when players like Maurice Price, Shawn Lemon, Keith Toston or even Vince Young were signed and fans rushed to get their jersey's only to have them abruptly get released or traded.  For this reason I've always found it hard to justify a custom jersey in my life.

I've never played sports.  As much as I love football I am pretty uncoordinated in real life. If I had to choose a number though? Thirteen is my number. 13 because I am a member of Rider Nation. I love the team and the players. I attend Training Camp and am a Season Ticket holder.  I cheer through the painfully bad times and the amazing glorious times.  I am from the team of fans - my people.  I am 13 because even though I cannot be on the field my support is loud and clear and unwavering from my living room chair or my seat in section 126. 

Years pass, players change and numbers change but we can hold those special times in our hearts and minds always. Free Agency opens at noon Valentine's Day Eve aka February 13th.  I like the sound of that number.

It's Not June Yet

So a good friend asked me the other day, “Sandra, what's the temperament of Ridernation?”

Firstly, I think it's pretty cool that I can have these type of conversations despite the issue that many people are still shocked that I not only like football but that I love it and follow not only my Saskatchewan Roughriders but the whole CFL league. Apparently I don't look like a fan. How much green to I have to wear to convince people? Is there ever too much green?

Secondly, I've got the answers. The temperament of the average Roughriders fan is mixed and somewhat divided. This isn't new. Every time you think it's gotten better and the emotion has died off something else happens to ruffle the feathers. Some love the Chris Jones regime, others hate him and others just hate his personality but love the coach. There are still (in March – 2 months later) fans who bring up the whole Chick/Dressler releases. Ridernation doesn't forget much.

In contrast, there are fans such as myself who are completely encouraged by all the changes going on from coaching to recruitment to free agent signings. Misery loves company and in our social media age it is more popular to complain and pout than to be positive and enthusiastic. I once stated the louder voice isn't necessarily the correct voice nor the voice of reason. I stand by that and at the same time I also know that some of these voices will be the first ones cheering and going crazy with the first touchdown of the 2016 season while those of us who never lost faith roll our eyes.

Defining times in Roughrider history for me is hearing Corey Chamblin say things like “I guess that's how they're going to call it.” in regards to the new rules for 2015 and the referee’s calling interference penalties. Our undersized DB's had to play man to man instead of zone defence and the coaches stubbornness to conform to the new rules set in motion the demise of the whole season. The refs are calling the penalties that way because that's what the rules are. Period. Also, our undersized slower receivers were helpless against the taller DB's of other teams. Chris Jones has fixed this HUGE issue. You might not like how he's done it but in one swoop he upgraded the secondary and receiving corps.

Thank you Chris Jones! I've been waiting for someone who has the guts to make the tough decisions and stand by them. I applaud you!

Ridernation is passionate in all facets. Fans can be the kindest and warmest and the meanest and rudest all rolled into one ball of green and white. In February, I

Smartie loving Shawn Lemon & myself

went to the Rider Store at Lawson Heights Mall to meet three of the Roughriders. The line wasn't very long and I suspect that was due to two things a) it wasn't publicized well and b) fans didn't really know who the guys were. But I knew! ...and I was glad to be able to inform the elderly man who stood in front of me in line. Nic Demski, Shawn “Lemondrops” Lemon and the “Terrorist” Tearius George. What a great group of guys. I watched them greet people and kids of all ages and I got to see a jovial tender side of the players that I didn't know existed. I offered to take pictures for the elderly gentleman and did so with his cell phone. He was so thrilled to meet these players. We are family. Rider fans are my people.

It was brought to my attention that I have a history of disastrous happenings occurring after I've met players. At this point I really hate to bring it up, however over the course of several years I've realized that after I've met Roughriders players they've either been released or gotten injured. It is true and I hang my head in shame. I bought the Fantuz Flakes cereal and he left for the NFL then later went to the Hamilton TigerCats. I bought the Getzlaf cereal and he's been consistently injured and is now an Edmonton Eskimo. However, this is almost unforgivable...I bought Dario's and had them signed by Darian at the Co-Op in August of 2014 merely a week before the Labour Day Classic and he's been injured ever since. I've already pledged to stop buying CFL Co-Op themed cereal but this should also stand as a warning to any player I have met or will meet in the future.

I am not a season ticket holder mainly because living in Saskatoon it's tough to get to all the games. I am a proud flex ticket holder though. * smile * A few weeks ago I got an email from the Roughriders unveiling the new choose and pay system. Wow what a huge improvement! I used to have to fill out a shopping list and then wait to see if I got the tickets I wanted. Now it's all done online and I can choose different seats for different games. It's awesome. Hubby and myself will be going to 5 games this season. It's the Farewell Season and no rabid fan could possible stay away. I wish the home opener wasn't a late Thursday night game but it doesn't matter....I'm going to be there. I think every home game will be increasingly epic until the lights dim October 28^th. My 80 year old dad wants me to “swipe a piece.” I'm sure there will be a bit of that going on.

Taylor Field at Mosaic Stadium has seen the worst of times and then glowed like the grand jewel she was in 2013. Tears will be shed. At the same time, we are living in the best of times and 2016 will be one for the history books. I can see tomorrow from here and it's all green and white.

Open Season

Three more sleeps.

Tree.  If you're Andre Proulx.

Once again we made it through the off season.  We made it through training camp.  We made it through the cuts and we made it through pre-season.

How did your team fare?

Pretty much everyone I know was shocked when Paul Waldu was one of the people released from the Roughriders.  I know defensive back is an important position but it's just not something I pay lot's of attention to.  I've heard that it's not because Paul was under performing but he just wasn't showing anything different.  It's hard to say.  I wonder if the change in the rules made it tough for him to adapt this year.  I also wonder if he'll take the Tristan Jackson route and this release will make him hungrier to compete.

Alex Peirchalski.  He was one guy who I thought was assured a spot on the roster.  I saw him out perform Chris Getzlaf.  I really thought it might be Getzlaf who was in jeopardy.  I think there were a few things that weighed into this decision.  It may not have been that Alex wasn't "good enough" for the Riders, but if you give him the spot...who goes?  I hypothesized Getzlaf's release or trade.  Yet I cannot debate the veteran presence and chemistry there is between him and Darian Durant.  There is a bigger risk if you go with youth and it doesn't work out.  Even I have to face it.....if we want the cup - and we always want the cup - then we have to go with Getz.  Unfortunately, a practice roster spot wasn't what AP was willing to do so the REDBLACKS snapped him up.  Hopefully, that choice doesn't come back to bite us in the butt.

The first day of training camp at Griffiths Stadium in Saskatoon I witness Ray Early kick a boomer that made my jaw drop to the concrete.  One of the players we missed the most last year was Ricky Schmidt.  There were many instances when poor punts resulted in poor field advantage and determined plays.  The Riders desperately needed someone dependable who can flip the field.  They needed someone who was consistent and dependable AND someone who could kick a field goal when Milo was having a rough game.  So it was no surprise to me when Hugh "the beard" O'Neal was let go.  *shudders* Ick.  I will never understand the appeal.

My Saskatchewan Roughriders.....Canada's Team.....went 0 - 2 in the preseason.  I'm okay with that.  It's preseason.  Preseason doesn't determine how the regular 18 game schedule will work out.  Sure coaches want to win every game and so do players, but the reason for these games is to figure out who rises to the game occasion.  Some guys suck.  Some guys are amazing.  Plus I don't think you want to risk injury for an exhibition game.

This brings us to Saturday and the home opener in Regina against the Blue Bombers.  I cannot tell you enough how it makes my stomach turn that my very own husband thinks Drew Willy is the second coming of Ricky Ray.  What I can tell you is that when you meet the same team three (tree) times in a season and you share the same division every game is a must win.  Our Roughriders absolutely MUST win every game at Taylor Field.....Our House.

I'll be there to find out what happens from my new seat in the end zone.  It's going to be a gorgeous evening with a temperature forecast of 31 degrees.  Remember to stay hydrated and wear the sunscreen!

I'm THAT Woman

Yes, it's true.  I'm THAT woman.  I'm the one who cries over sports.  An even bigger confession is...I've cried over sports twice in the last week.  Football in particular, although I have been known to get choked up over a good Nascar win, but this blog is about football. 

The official unveiling of the New Mosaic Stadium was provided to us via a live stream on Riderville.com last week.  It opened with a video of all the legends and legendary happenings at Taylor Field.  I never stood a chance.  With tears streaming faster than the video, I viewed what the New Mosaic Stadium will entale.  What a presentation it was.  This new stadium will be amazing.  We will usher in a new era with this stadium.  It's going to have actual seats.  It will be a bowl style stadium.  It will be partially covered by a translucient awning.  The visuals were simply beyond my wildest expectations.

You can view for yourself here:  NEW STADIUM

Now, everything I heard from people I know was positive.  A new stadium is deeply needed.  But what the heck is up with media types?  I turned onto CKOM to hear the afternoon crowd being totally negative on multiple levels.  They don't like the locatioin.....they don't like the parking.....they don't like the absense of a roof.  Like what the heck!  The location has not been a secret.  We've known for ages there wouldn't be a roof.  These people, who admittedly do not watch football need to get educated on the subject before spouting off all their gobbly-goop which in turns gets fans all in an uproar.

We want change.  We need change.  This is very exciting.  We are going to usher in a new era with this stadium.  PERIOD.

Another time last week that I cried was when watching All In.  In case you didn't know [and every Rider fan does know], All In was the Roughrider dvd which came out last week available at the Rider stores and all Co-Op locations.  The dvd chronicals the 2013 season leading up to the 101st Grey Cup and including winning said most coveted trophy. 

Now don't get me wrong here.  I loved it.  The player and coach commentaries gave great insight into the whole season.  Seeing the prep for Grey Cup was interesting because most of us don't know what goes into getting an event ready and it also showed us how the weather affects and is part of the game.  I've seen everyone raving about the dvd but no one is saying what I'm about to.....It missed the mark.  Okay, well kind of missed the mark.  The feature began with the loss of the west final in 2012.  I feel that even though that's what spurred the planning for the 2013 season, the dvd should have began with the [Ridernation prepare yourself].....it should have began with the 09/10 Grey Cup losses.  Before you all freak out at me, my mentality for that statement is because for players like Darian Durant those losses are what created that monkey on his back that he desperately wanted to fling off.  The video also glazed over the whole Cornish/Sheets competition.  One of my most memorable parts of the 2013 West Final was when Cornish was walking off the field and Sheets was being interviewed.  They asked him what worked and he said "pretty much everything."  Another part that wasn't even mentioned was how the Roughriders refused to touch the West Final trophy.  There were many storylines which came together....Tristan Jackson working on the rigs when recalled to the team....Kent Austin being a Rider now a Ticat....Fantuz/Congi and other ex-Riders.....  But the number one thing the All In dvd should have included was the Grey Cup game itself.  If time or money was the issue, we all know Rider Nation would have gladly sat through a 3 hour documentry and paid much more for it too.  Hey, if we spend $200+ on multiple jerseys every year there is no doubt we'd fork over the dough for a monumental dvd and you all know it!

If you want to procure your own copy of All In just visit any Rider store or Co-Op store or order online at Riderville.com.

Did you miss this media announcement last week?  The Co-Op in partnership with many football teams are again coming out with Game Day products.  All moneys from these products go to charity.  I think that's a worthy cause to knock down the Co-Op doors looking for these items.  In Saskatchewan there will be Getzlaf Chris-py Dill chips and Darian's Quarterback Quench Sports drink.  There will be many other items available in Saskatchewan as well which you can read about here:  Co-Op Connections  This time around you will also see items Alberta with Stampeder players/logos and Eskimo players/logos.  Remember, it's all for a good cause.

Just today it was announced that Chris Szarka-train and Omar Morgan will be inducted into the Plaza of Honor.  They are both terrific players.  If Eddie Davis is in then Omar should be too.  Can't have one without the other.

Last thing, which may make us all cry depending.....the Players Association and CFL are set to meet on Wednesday again.  Will it be a major snafu like last week or will they actually come to terms?  I have a gut feeling it will be worked out and players will be at training camp next Monday as planned in Saskatoon.

If not.....you'll see the real  *ugly* cry from this woman.

Ba-Bye!

Since my last blog the Roughriders have gone five and oh, top of the CFL, Drew Willy and zip.....that means five glorious green victories while losing zip, zilch, nada times.

The last time the team has achieved such a feat was in 2008 under Coach Ken Miller.  The starting quarterback was Marcus Crandell, then Stephen Jyles, and Darian Durant before the Michael Bishop experiment happened.  I vaguely recall a stat about a team going 6-0 while using 4 different starting quarterbacks.  Through several setbacks and broken legs the team ended the season 12-6.

Reminiscing about the 2008 season, makes me wonder where DJ Flick is now.  It makes me recall the famous beer tossing incident in the BC Lions game.  It also reminds me that it was the year we lost Ron Lancaster.  It also reminds me of the West Semi-Final and even though we knew we weren't going to win because of all the injuries we were hopeful and then Stu Foord scored a touchdown, tore off his helmet and let his hair flow as he ran along the sidelines.

Time travel to 2013.

Through the first five games of this season our beloved Riders seem to be able to crush any opponent.  Okay, fine, we've had relatively easy teams to play so far.  I mean, the Eskimos seem in shambles especially after the Krazy Kavis remarks and then there's Kent Austin's anger from the sidelines of the Hamilton.....er, Guelph.....er, TiCats bench.  It would seem the power is in the west.  Then I have to remind myself that we've really only played 5 games.  Five isn't very much at all.  Lot's can change, and will change through the rest of the season.  The true test is the next game against the Stampeders and then later on in September when we finally play the BC Lions.

Who makes up the schedules anyway?

The Roughriders advanced their record to 5-0 against the 1989 Grey Cup winning quarterback #5 Kent Austin with a back up quarterback #5 of Drew Willy.  How much do you love that?!

In the meantime.....is the bye week over yet?......let's revel in our success.

• Darian Durant has had an incredible start with zero interceptions. 
• We found out Drew Willy is better than capable as a back up.
• Kory Sheets has set the record for rushing for 100+ yards in 5 consecutive games for a total of 712.
• Rob Bagg is back and better than ever and might make me cry every time he gets a TD
• Weston Dressler is one tough little dude.
• It is totally awesome to see Geroy Simon strike his Superman poise in green & white.
• Rey Williams is a beast.  Thank you Kent Austin.
• John Chick makes a girls heart flutter
• Keith Shologan was drafted in 2008 and this week he became a dad.  *insert warm fuzzies here*
• Chris Getzlaf has gotten married.  Tons of congrats from Rider Nation.
• Finally, Dan Clark.

The Story So Far

I don't think I really have to inform any Rider fan out there that the team is currently the only team in the CFL who remains undefeated.  I'm pretty sure everyone knows the Roughriders are 3-0.  Did you know that no CFL player has started the season with as many yards as Kory Sheets?

See?

You knew it already.

Rod Pederson said Rider Nation is swinging from chandeliers.  This might be the one!

In the first game of the season we played the Edmonton Eskimo's.  The score was 39-18.  Lot's of people said that, well, the Eskimo's aren't a very good team and we'd have to wait and find out how the Riders play against a more worthy opponent.  The high/low-light of this game was what I saw as an interfering Greg Marshall chirping at Dwayne Anderson and then saw DA get all fired up crazy and got himself a few penalties.  It also caused a bit of a controversy because tons of fans were split on whether he should even remain on the team.  Now, two games later.....meh, DA is an okay guy *if* he doesn't do it again.  Then it turns out the real crazy is the Eskimo's coach, "Krazy" Kavis Reed who could barely contain himself after their most recent loss.  My own personal opinion is.....his counting mistake caused us a Grey Cup even though I can't prove it.  His contract was just extended but how could you possibly have respect for a raving lunatic of a coach?  Edmonton is indeed in trouble.  THERE HAS TO BE CONSEQUENCES!!!

Moving on to week two and we played the Calgary Stampeders or the Stumps as I've heard a few refer to them as.  I felt a little bit bad for them because they had that horrific storm and severe flooding.....but not bad enough to let them win.  The Stamps were a more worthy opponent but we still beat them 36-21.  Of course we had Skater Dude aka Rod Black for a commentator.  Throughout the almost the entire first half all we heard was how much in control Drew Tate was and how calm he was and blah blah blah.  I shouldn't expect any less from Skater Dude.  I really thought "Kernal" Jock Sanders was going to break loose and return a punt for a touchdown.  I think he was just one tackle away.....and it could still happen in any game.  Getzlaf seemed to recover from the dropsies which plagued him last year but ohmygawd how awesome was the play calling?!  I was singing George Cortez's praises after this game.  What a catch he was! 

On to the most recent game against the defending 2012 Grey Cup champs, the Toronto Argonauts.  You know, I googled argonaut before because I had absolutely no idea what it was.  If there was ever a case for REDBLACKS, this might be it.  No confusion as to what that name means.  But I digress.....  We beat them!  39-28 was the score. I'm not a huge stats person but who can ignore Darian Durant's performance this year?!  He's thrown 8 touchdown passes already with ZERO interceptions (unless you count that one that got called back).  This is a huge improvement on previous seasons.  The witty Rob Vanstone told me that his previous season best was 25 TD's and he's on pace this year for 46!  Well, that was until his 'lower body' ankle injury.  I have complete faith in our O-line.  I'm sure Drew Willy will perform just fine this week if he is called to duty.  I know Kory Sheets has faith in them too because he's keeping them fed with BonBurgers just for blocking for him.  It's working, and hey, burgers are a huge motivator, because Kory has rushed for an incredible 442 yards in just these  three games.

So where do we go from here?  This coming Sunday we meet what some people are calling the "old Riders", the Kent Austin coached, Hhheeeeennnrryyyyy Burris quarterbacked, Andy Fantuz'd Hamilton TigerCats in front of a home town crowd at Taylor Field, er Mosaic Stadium.  I don't like to make predictions, but I have a feeling Cortez has a special offensive playbook just for the occasion of meeting his ex-team.  After all, he is what I've coined The Quarterback Whisperer.

Let's make it 4-0.  Go Riders Go!

Green & White Day 2013

 Technically, they were calling it Riderville North Fan Fest Day.  It's all part of the 101st Grey Cup festivities, however, the Riders do usually travel this way for a special day of autographs and practice.

Last year it rained.

This year it rained cats and dogs.

Does it matter to Rider Nation?  Not one single bit.

Hubby and I arrived a good half hour early.  We stood in line for about 45 minutes.  Unfortunately, due to the conditions the Riders only had 'select' players signing autographs and they were in a tent.  The lineup to see them could have wrapped all around the track at Griffith Stadium.  As one of my Tweeps mentioned I just wish someone would have told us it was hopeless. 

Gainer walked down the line entertaining kids.

 I managed to make it to the tent and had my specially purchased green nerf football signed.  I had wanted to meet Geroy Simon and have him sign it but he was taken away to get ready for practice.  *disappointed face*  But, happily, I did get to meet Dwight Anderson who, strangely enough, was seated beside Weston Dressler.  Weston didn't appear worried about his eyes at all.

Dwight Anderson, Weston Dressler & Chris Getzlaf

A little farther down the line I managed to talk to Ricky Foley and Kory Sheets.  I mentioned to Kory that I'd talked to him on Twitter the night before.  "For real?" he said.  Then he asked my twitter name and he said he actually remembered me.  <swoon>

We stood around for a little while waiting for the scrimmage to start but it was raining heavy again.  Many did stay.  I felt since, I had attended the two previous practices it wasn't necessary. 

That wraps up my week of Rider Training Camp and Fan Day.  This week some of the practices are held at the SaskTel soccer centre and due to work, I can't attend the afternoons at Griffiths.  Work always gets in the way of fun doesn't it?!

Things I Learned at Training Camp

My sparkly sneakers....just chillin' in the stands.

 I am a surprisingly nice person at 6:55am.  I hustled around and got ready for my first experience at Rider Training Camp.  As I was later told by a curly-green&white-wig wearing fellow, the ladies gotta represent.  I dropped Hubby off at work and treated myself to a Timmies breakfast sandwich and cafe mocha before heading to Griffith Stadium.  I arrived about 8:30 after hiking from the parking lot off Preston, which if you didn't know, is free.  But don't park there because then I won't have a spot!

I sat on the 55 yard line.

After snapping a few photo's with the Canon Rebel, I quickly realized we need a better zooming lens.  I've reviewed pics and need to fix and crop and such.  The other thing is that I am sooooo out of practice and easily distracted.  The team would break off into practice groups and I found there was so much going on I didn't know which way to look.  I am a girl after all.

Greg Carr.  Holy doodle is he a tall boy.  I saw him get a nice grab.  Anyone else would have had to jump and leap.....or get a step ladder, while he just reached up like it was no biggie.  Chris Getzlaf looked good.  I saw him get a few nice short passes.  I saw Geroy Simon drop a few and I saw the coach not let him get away with it.  Taj Smith was notable. I thought Robb Bag looked like a beast.  He looked good and healthy.  Where is his Co-Op Game Day cereal, huh?  I think the big story is Weston Dressler.  He played all out.  All or nothing.  Go hard or go home.

Also heard another receiver went home today.  He wasn't cut.....just went home. Yamon Figurs was his name.  Apparently, he was supposed to be very promising.  We will never know.

I enjoyed watching Kory Sheets and Jock Sanders.  I think there's something brewing there.

The snap calls have changed.  They seemed more 'american'.  Instead of the familiar "1-81, 1-82" they were replaced with words.  After hearing them all morning, would you believe I can't remember them now?  Ugh!

I was surprised by the media.  Some are dressed in suits while some look like they want to be rock stars.  It was an interesting mix.  I think the real rock star was Rod Pederson, who came to the fence and chatted with some fans.  He spoke with them for a really long time.  I thought that was really cool for them and for him to take the time to do it.

I had a moment of panic when a media crew started interviewing fans in the stands.  I thought "I'm not prepared!  I didn't think of anything witty to say!"  But they didn't talk to me in the end.  Whew!

At the end of practice, Scott McHenry came over and talked to the same fans who Rod Pederson had spoken to.

I'm somewhat glad that practice ended when it did because it was getting really hot.  At 8am it was only +4 and I'm sure it was 20 by the time practice was done and there wasn't a cloud in the sky.  Later in the day, I realized I was actually sun burnt on my neck/chest area.  I wear spf 30 with titanium dioxide for a sun allergy.  Weird, I know, but even more weird to get a sun burn.  Oh and only I have the talent for getting the lovely tan line of my rider necklace.

I was happier than a June bug to go to practice this morning.  I'm not sure I'll make it back this week.  But I have big plans to go to Green & White Day on Saturday at Griffith Stadium at 2pm.  They're having an autograph session!  The excitement in Riderville North never ceases!

10 Thought Tuesday ~ 52 Days ~

It's only 52 days until the 2013 football season kicks off!  Hurray!

I've neglected my football blog something terrible.  I always have good intentions.  I was going to post high light video's and football movie reviews, but none of that happened while we all endured the longest winter ever.  So, I've decided to do a football 10 thoughts, which is something I do on my regular blog every week.

1.  Yesterday was the CFL draft.  I don't actually know how the Riders made out.  I know we picked up some O-lineman and D-lineman and the names look slightly familiar from the Huskies and Rams but that's about all I know. 

2.  Last week, Brandon West was released.  I always liked him.  I never got to meet him although I tried at last years Green & White day.  I don't think there was a place left for him when Kory Sheets had such an amazing year and let's face it....he wow'd us.

3.  It was announced that Saskatoon will be Riderville North.  This is pretty exciting and I can't wait to hear what it all involves.  I hope players...current and past come visit the Rider Store.  No one has been here in ages.

4.  June 3rd will mark the start of training camp in Saskatoon.  I'm hoping to attend a few days.  I'll be the one slathered in sunscreen and doped up on allergy meds.  Let me tell you, sun allergies suck.

5.  A month ago I washed my jersey in eager anticipation of the season to come.  I continue to wish that the Rider Store could find a vender who provided more realistic sizing for the voluptously sized. 

6.  If you are one of those Pinterest People you can find me there.  I have a whole board about the Saskatchewan Roughriders.  LINK

7.  This month on my Kidsport calendar Weston Dressler is featured.  The last two months were sad as they were Odell Willis and Shomari Williams who were both traded in this off season.

8.  We installed new windows over Easter and had to remove the 100 Year Rider flag from the window.  It won't be going back up because we got proper blinds.  I'm not sure what to do with it now.  It's a little faded from being in the window and turned a funky shade.

9.  Speaking of not knowing what to do with stuff....I have a bag containing empty boxes of Fantuz Flakes.  I also have a box of Dario's and a box of Getzlaf triple berry.  What do I do with these things?  I can't just have them sitting out in my home....it's not set up for that.  I wish I could have them displayed in a cool way but I don't know what it is yet.  Idea's are welcome.

10.  In the off season I have resorted to watching Nascar with my husband.  I'm not into hockey or baseball even though I own a Yankee's hat.  Nascar races last as long as a football game and I'm fearing that I'm actually getting into the sport.  Please send help.  *turns left*

Cortez, Superman & Jinx

"Let's turn January into Christmas." ~ Cory Chamblin

As I recently said, every time I come up with a blog topic the news changes and the subject is moot.  Ugh!  I'm not going to bother with what's happened in December because apparently January is the new December.  

Monday the Riders announced the hiring of George Cortez.  All of Riderville is a buzz.  I've heard people saying he is the greatest offensive mind out there.  But hold the train!  I thought we didn't like Cortez.  I mean, he had tons of weapons in the Ti-Cat arsenal and that didn't seem to get the offence anywhere.  I even said to my husband, "I thought we didn't like Cortez."  His reply?  "Of course not, he was on the other team."

Okay.

After a week of a nagging dull headache and a few sleepless nights I was finally able to sleep well and wake up feeling normal.  Well, as normal as I ever was.  Anyhow, it figures that this of course would be when the biggest CFL news of the week would break.  Geroy Simon has been traded to the Riders for Justin Harper and a 3rd round draft pick.  Huh.  Actually, I think my words were Holy Crap!  At least that's what I heard someone say to the TV when it was talked about on the noon CTV news.  And by the way, Trish Cheveldayoff.....football is a 12 months subject.

Courtesy Darian Durant's Twitter page.

I don't know if you've read any of my previous blogs.  If you have, you might recall that Hubby and I ventured to Watrous last summer for a special Co-Op Customer Appreciation BBQ.  If you haven't then you should go read it.  LINK.  So this was the second time we've gone for such an event.  In 2011, we saw Cary Koch, Barin Simpson and James Patrick.

Courtesy Watrous Co-Op Facebook Page

The following off season Cary Koch was traded to the Eskimo's.  Barin Simpson retired.  James Patrick was injured.

Jinx.

My signed print of Efrem Hill.

When we went in 2012 we visited with Efrem Hill, Justin Harper and James Patrick.  I don't know if you can see where I'm going with this, but shortly after that event Efrem Hill was released.  With the Cortez news on Monday it was announced James Patrick was released.  Then today.....we traded Justin Harper to BC in exchange for Geroy Simon #81.  

Jinx.

Before this news, I was chatting with a Tuesday student who is also a Rider fan.  It totally made sense to her.  She pleaded with me..... "Don't ever meet Weston Dressler!"

Doh!  Too late.

I told her I've met Chris Getzlaf, Kory Sheets and Darian Durant too.

She screamed.  "Ah!"

I'm sorry.

If it helps.  I did not get to chat with Rob Bagg and he got injured and I never did have the pleasure of talking to Andy Fantuz no matter how much I tried.  So I cannot be blamed for that.

Still.  I'm a little worried because I had plans to attend training camp in Saskatoon this spring.

Ack!

One of Us

I've joked that we make you put on a Roughrider football jersey at the Saskatchewan border.  We Rider fans are steadfast and passionate around the province and elsewhere.  We are Rider Nation.  We are the snappiest dressed fans at CFL games and the loudest.  We wear Rider green loud and proud.  We are the 13th Man.

In Canadian football there are 12 men on the field.  We like to think of ourselves as that extra man helping out the team from the safety of the stands.  The term is much more meaningful than what the rest of the country thinks of.....which is that horrible terrible gut wrenching eye wincing falling to our knees praying 2009 Grey Cup.

I fly a Rider flag in the window of my spare bedroom.  My neighbour camps in a green and white decaled camper.  My eye doctors office workers are clad in jerseys the Friday before the game.  It's like that all across the country.  It's game day and we're ready for it by wearing our team colours all day.  It's not like that in other team cities.  Everywhere you look, there is green.....whether you go to the game or prefer the armchair in your living room. 

We are the fans who stand in line for 2 hours to see legends and future legends at the Grey Cup Train.  We are the fans who buy the most CFL merchandise.  We are the fans who eat Triple Berry Getzlaf Cereal for breakfast and Dressler chips for dinner.  We show support with our closet, our food and our pocket books.

From Wikipedia:

Fanaticism is a belief or behavior involving uncritical zeal, particularly for an extreme religious or political cause or in some cases sports, or with an obsessive enthusiasm for a pastime or hobby.

We are zealous Rider fans.  It is like a religion and it can be political. I recall it was meant to be that the Riders won the 2007 Grey Cup because Brad Wall won the provincial election that year.  I've seen fans wear priest and nun garb to the games too.  I'd say that's obsessive alright.

Sports fanaticism - high levels of intensity surrounding sporting events. This is either done based on the belief that extreme fanaticism can alter games for one's favorite team or because the person uses sports activities as an ultra-masculine "proving ground" for brawls, as in the case of football hooliganism.

HOLD THE TRAIN!  Yes, I'm a little superstitious when it comes to game day routine, however I am a woman and don't have anything to prove.  I've never picked a brawl and I'm pretty sure I'm not a hooligan.

Who says hooligan anymore anyway?

Being a Rider fan brings the community together.  I've blogged about Labour Day and how my street came alive after the big win.  I've seen two little boys become friends while waiting in line at an event to see Riders and ex-Riders. I've seen friendships form in the supermarket because someone admired the other fans Rider gear.

Those who come together, grieve together.  I will never forget the day after the 2009 Grey Cup.  The day was dull and dreary.  The sullen players had returned home.  Football was over and what was there to look forward to?  There was a hush everywhere I went that day.  I walked into the Fairlight Drive Tim Hortons where everyone was still sitting in shock.  [Except for the guy in the Stampeder jersey.]  There was a soft murmur.  No one wanted to be too loud.  It was then that I professed my love for the Riders even more.  "They need us now more than ever."  I had said.  I said it multiple times that day, holding strong to my beliefs.

It's easy to love a team when they are winning, but when your team has only won 3 championships, can you love them when they don't win too?  And that's what really defines those of us die hard stand out in the rain power goes off Rider loving fanatics.  We love them no matter what and we wear our hearts on our sleeves to prove it.

 

 

Around the Watercooler

I'm not the only Roughrider fan in the province who has a sinking heart today.  The main difference between myself and many other fans is I'm having my Sunday morning coffee and relaxing on a cloudy day, while many others are busy calling for the firing or release of players and coaches and even booing.....yes, booing the whole team.

It's sad.

What has happened to Ridernation?

Where did people get the idea that they had the right to say these things and behave in this manner?  It makes me shake my head and grimace.

I admit, even I moaned when Chris Getzlaf dropped his first catch of the game.  I feel so bad for the guy.  I know he really can catch the ball even though I feel he's got the Curse of the Cereal [see previous blog].  Would I boo the guy?  No.  And yes, I also admit I had the idea maybe he should be benched until he works his issues out.  But I'm not the coach and it's a really good thing I'm not.  I'm sure I'd have them running in circles and they'd be more mixed up than they were in the first three quarters of yesterday's game.

It's really easy to sit on the couch at home and watch games.  I can see running lanes open up and see receivers out in the open.  Sure, it's pretty easy at that point to say "Run!  Run the ball!" but what we don't see is what is going on down field.  Maybe some receivers are covered, maybe a route is blown, or an assignment is missed.  We don't really know what the story is.

So many people are on Darian Durant's case.  I feel bad for him too.  How many other quarterbacks have the  Ridernation ran out of town?  How much of what Darian does is poor play calling or bad decisions?  He can be brilliant as he scrambles away and a dominator when he uses his legs.  A dropped ball is not his fault.  How much criticism can Darian endure before he's decided he's had enough?  I hope to not find out.

I've also heard the phrase "real fans go to games."  What?  I'm a real fan.  I'm passionate about the game too.  Just because I'm not at Mosaic Stadium, does that mean I'm not a fan?  I'd rather not drive 4 hours to Regina to sit in the heat or rain behind someone who is either drunk or oogling the cheerleaders.  No thanks.  I have a better seat at home in my temperature controlled castle.  I've been to games and sure, it is fun and exciting and a thing to experience, but are you any less of a fan for not attending a game?  No.

It seems to me that the biggest adjustment that has to be made is by the fans.  It's not enough to spout off about the players and coaches you have to ridicule other fans too.  

It's shameful.

And a province of fans that were show cased and given an award by the CFL in 2010 should try to be a better model for other football teams instead of what not to emulate.   Before pointing the finger at players, coaches and fans, try looking inwards first.

 

The Curse of the Cereal

The Riders sprang out of the gate winning 3 straight games and exuding spirit and confidence. Then the wheels seemed to fall off the team bus. I'm not one to lay blame and I would never do that to one of the team members or coaches either. So I've searched my heart and soul for some other possible explanation for dropped balls, missed catches and interceptions where there weren't any previously and it has nothing to do with the shirt I wear, how I do my make up or any other game day tradition.

Nope.

It comes down to the only conceivable thing.

The curse of the cereal.

On July 29^th, 2010 the Roughriders and Federated Co-Operative launched Fantuz Flakes. According to the Leader Post, it was directly after a win against Edmonton. Ironic. It was a very tasty almond oatmeal cereal and immediately sold out. A successful second edition was later released.

Now the curse didn't spring into effect immediately, although it may have played a part in the 2010 Grey Cup. Instead, it waited until the off season. That's when Andy Fantuz became a Chicago Chipmunk....er, I mean Bear. And I wished him luck. I really really did. But when he didn't make the NFL roster and returned for the end of the dismal 2011 season, he was never able to make the same impact, got injured and finally was signed by the Ti-Cats for this season.

In the teams efforts to move on in 2011, Darian's Dari-O's were released. And if memory serves correctly, they were launched at the very beginning of the season. Poor Darian Durant was plagued the whole season by an O-line that couldn't protect him, interceptions, turn overs and screw ups from baubled snaps.

I could just rest my case here. It's obvious the cereal is to blame. But no. The year is now 2012 and the Roughriders have moved on in so many levels.....except this year on July 21^st there was the launch of Getzlaf Triple Berry Waggle Cereal. This was supposed to be Chris Getzlaf's break out year. It might be. It still could be. He could be incredible.....if he could only catch and secure the ball.

Batman & Robin

So you see the curse of the cereal is truly the only plausible explanation. What's going to happen next year? All I know is, if someone approaches you with a new Roughrider cereal idea.....I'd be heading for the hills because I'm convinced the Curse of the Cereal will soon follow.

Batman & Robin