Wray Morrison
Huskies part of Sept 16-17 triple-header

U of S Huskies get ready for “Football Weekend in Saskatchewan”

May 28, 2022 | 4:34 PM

The University of Saskatchewan Huskie football team will play a prominent role in “Football Weekend In Saskatchewan” this fall. On Friday, September 16th, the Riders kick off the weekend with a home game against the Edmonton Elks at Mosaic Stadium. On Saturday, September 17th, the Saskatoon Hilltops visit the Regina Thunder in an afternoon game, followed by the Huskie road game against the Regina Rams that evening.

Riders President Craig Reynolds made the announcement at the State of Rider Nation address on Saturday afternoon at SMF Field. “We envision it to be a celebration of football in Saskatchewan, and how much it means to the province”, said Reynolds. “There is such love for football here, and I think it’ll be on display.”

Huskie coach Scott Flory is thrilled about giving Saskatchewan teams in the PFC and Canada West an elevated profile. “Football is crucial. It’s embedded in the DNA in this province.” It really starts with the brand of the Riders. They are helping us, and they are intentional with their actions to be able help grow the game at the base level, and that is foundational for us.”

The respect goes both ways. The Riders, who have now wrapped up camp at Griffiths Stadium say the University of Saskatchewan Huskies have been top notch hosts for training camp which started on May 15th. “They’ve been absolutely fantastic,” said Reynolds. “They always are. Training camp is easy (in Saskatoon) and the fan support is huge.”

There are high expectations for both the Riders and Huskies in 2022. Saskatchewan is hosting the Grey Cup on November 20th at Mosaic Stadium. The Huskies are the defending Canada West champions, and Vanier Cup finalists from a year ago. Despite some turn over in key positions on offense, Flory believes his team can address the changes in the roster.”

“We are going to have to be able to adapt to personnel changes.” Josh Ewanchyna is expected to be the feature tail back with the retirement of Adam Machart. “He (Ewanchyna) can do what Adam does, but he does some other things really well,” said Flory. “We have to be able to use his ability.” The Huskies are also confident in second year receiver Daniel Wiebe and fourth year pass catcher Daniel Perry, as the team loses veterans such as Colton Klassen and Sam Baker.

Now the Huskie coaches prepare to implement an offense that lends itself to player strengths. “We have to adapt and be prepared so when we hit the fall it’s not a scramble”, said Flory. “We’ve got the plan in place so that we can do that teaching and that install before we actually get to a game.”

The Huskies begin defense of their Canada West title on Friday September 2nd in Calgary against the Dinos.

wray.morrison@pattisonmedia.com

Twitter: @wraymorrison

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