Roughriders training camp: Players brave the elements, Prairie-style
“Specifically today, with the weather what it is, you want to see how guys respond to that."
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The Saskatchewan Roughriders are getting an early taste of undesirable springtime weather on the Prairies.
They were greeted with a mixture of rain and bone-chilling wind on Victoria Day Monday.
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That brought out the long underwear and toques for some wimpy reporters, while brave souls in the stands took to layered warm clothing, hoodies and rain jackets.
There was no escaping the elements when it came to the players and their evaluation.
“Specifically today, with the weather what it is, you want to see how guys respond to that,” pointed out Riders head coach Corey Mace.
“I didn’t honestly think we had our best practice but we talk about looking at this as an investment opportunity for us. I mean, all the important games specifically where we play at (Mosaic Stadium in Regina), it’ll be like this or worse, so that was the main thing we were looking for today.
“I didn’t quite think we met the standard, but, with this group of guys, I know what their response will be.”
O-LINE ADJUSTS TO MISSING PARTS
With key addition Sean McEwen out for a while on the offensive line, and Philippe Gagnon not in action Monday, the Roughriders continue to adjust to some missing parts.
Not only will the Riders not have McEwen filling the void at the centre position, they’ll miss his leadership ability on the field.
“We got other guys who have had experience in this league snapping the ball for us at that position,” noted Mace. “But as far as a leadership standpoint, we’ve got vets in the room. Obviously Yoshi (Jermarcus Hardrick) and Logan (Ferland) and Tate (Trevon Tate) have been around for a long time. And Gagnon. We’ve got guys who have been around the block in this league for a while. With those guys being able to help lead the charge, even with Sean still being there for the young bucks as well, we are still pretty happy with where we’re at in that room.”
SHOUT-OUT TO DOHNTE MEYERS
While maybe there was no standout player during Monday’s session, Mace did give a shout-out to import wide receiver and return specialist Dohnte Meyers.
“He’s been having an excellent, excellent camp,” said Mace. “I’m not sure if he made the headlines today, but he’s been outstanding so I want to make sure I give him a little back-pat and some love.”
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