The people you encounter at one point in time and someway, somehow, cross paths with again later in your life.

Ten years ago – on Dec. 13, 2014 – Illinois State (11-1) charged into Roos Field to take on Eastern Washington (11-2) in the NCAA FCS championship quarterfinal.

In his first season as the junior quarterback for the Redbirds after transferring from the Indiana Hoosiers, Tre Roberson piloted the program to an impressive 59-46 victory over Walter Payton award finalist Vernon Adams Jr. and the Eagles.

A decade later, the pair are sharing a locker-room north of the border.

One has moved around the CFL over his eight-year tenure and is about to embark on his first season as a Stampeder, on a mission to secure his first Grey Cup championship and ready to help lead the Red and White back to the organization’s winning ways.

And the other, a 2018 Grey Cup champion who has spent his entire CFL career in Calgary, but no longer extending drives with his legs and throwing balls in tight windows. Instead, the opposite, a veteran cornerback breaking up passes and taking balls the other way for six.

Although their respective football careers have taken them on wildly different journeys since that foggy December day in Cheney, Wash., the former duelling passers still have kept tabs on each other.

“We’ve always kept a close eye on each other, we’ve got a weird connection,” admitted Roberson. “When he was with Montreal, I direct messaged him and told him, ‘You’re a hell of a player, dawg. Don’t let your head down,’ and I also talked to him a couple of weeks ago . . . and told him we’d be excited to have him here and all of that stuff, so we’ve always had a little connection.”

Also in the stadium that day was current quarterbacks coach Beau Baldwin, who spent eight years as the head coach of the EWU Eagles (2008-16), Los Angeles Rams receiver Cooper Kupp, New England Patriots receiver Kendrick Bourne, and present to watch his older brother Cory play, Bo Levi Mitchell, 13 days fresh off of winning the 102nd Grey Cup in Vancouver over the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.

“It’s a very small world,” said Roberson. “I couldn’t imagine (ending up playing together). I’m living on borrowed time; I had to switch positions so I couldn’t imagine. It’s cool still seeing everybody, I didn’t even know Bo was there (that day) until I got on the (Stampeders).

“You think about all the years that went past and then we get on the same team and have a random conversation and he’s like, ‘That was you? I was at that game!’ and I’m like ‘Yeah, that was me!’ so it’s just crazy.”

Much to Mitchell’s dismay, his alma mater couldn’t keep up with his future teammate’s high-powered offence.

To this day, Roberson clearly remembers the Redbirds’ game plan entering the quarterfinal.

“I remember coming in with the Redbirds, we were coming over from the Midwest in Illinois State and we were familiar with their offence and how dynamic they were,” he explained.

“Vernon was up for the Walter Payton award, and we knew about how dynamic he was, and we knew we had to score a lot of points.

“Whereas with Cooper Kupp we didn’t really know him like that and how he is now, even Kendrick Bourne, and the other receivers they had, we just knew about Vernon.

“But I was coming from Indiana University in the Big Ten, so I came to Illinois State with a swagger, like ‘I’m the best in this league at the quarterback position’, so me going over there, I felt like I was going to show everybody that I was the best. That (Vernon’s) not the best in this league, I’m the best in this league.

“Then I just remember getting on that field and being locked in. It was crazy because it was like we both felt each other’s presence. We both felt like it was one of those days for us to show who ‘the guy’ was.”

From the opening kickoff, Illinois State never let their foot off the gas.

Their standout running back Marshaun Coprich, all-time leader in nearly every rushing category for ISU, ran all over the Eagles, tallying 258 yards on the ground and four rushing touchdowns.

Roberson did his part in proving himself as a bonafide QB, completing 19 passes for 206 yards, and two touchdowns including a movie-esque, one-handed grab from Cameron Meredith in the front corner of the endzone.

The former pivot also made plays with his feet, converting on third and long or fourth and short, and adding a quarterback run for six to his dominant performance.

Competing on the opposite sideline, Adams put up astronomical numbers in the contest.

The aforementioned Walter Payton award finalist completed 25 passes for 425 yards and four total touchdowns (three through the air, and one on the ground).

He was able to engineer a few scoring drives in the fourth quarter, but the 25-point deficit already established by Roberson was too high a hill to climb.

“We were able to get off to a hot start,” Roberson recalled. “Before the game our coach would always ask me, ‘What’s the goal for the offence?’, and every single week there was only one goal: to score on every possession.

“We knew at one point in the season we would have to do that and that was that game against Eastern Washington. We knew that if we didn’t score on every possession and if they started to get hot, they would be hard to stop. Our defence played a hell of a game, too.”

Part of the credit for Illinois State’s success? Roos Field’s famous red turf.

“Man, that’s what got the juices going,” Roberson exclaimed. “When you get on that field, and just their atmosphere, because Vernon was the guy. He had his own theme music when he went out onto the field, he had the energy going, they’re in all red, on the sideline everyone’s pumped up and that was his field.

“It was an unbelievable feeling, an unbelievable game. That’s one of the best games I’ve been part of in my life. It’s a great memory.”

In honour of this signing, I’ve decided to make a list of my Top-10 Rene Paredes moments.

It sounded easy at first, but picking out just 10 moments for someone who’s played in 248 games (including playoffs), has led the league in points on three separate occasions, and has 11 career game-winning field goals on the final play of the game, became a more daunting task than I originally thought.

But I’ve given it my best shot. Hopefully my attempt at this list is near as good as Paredes lining up from 50-plus with the game on the line.

In chronological order, here are my Top-10 moments.

1. Where It All Began

Following an injury to kicker Rob Maver in Week 2 of the 2011 season, undrafted rookie Rene Paredes was called into action.

On July 8 against the BC Lions, the kid from Concordia nailed his first field goal attempt, good for 50 yards. From that moment on, Paredes was the guy and has never missed a game since.

2. Perfect Paredes

In his freshman season, Paredes converted on every extra-point attempt (48/48) and continued that streak into his sophomore year with another 100% conversion rate (49/49).

He was nearly perfect for three straight seasons, missing just one attempt out of 50 in 2013.

3. Paredes Passes Paul

On July 26, 2013, against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, he set a new CFL record for most consecutive field goals made, passing Paul McCallum’s previous record of 30.

I remember 13-year-old me sitting on my couch with my hands clasped together as Paredes lined up for the record-breaking kick and jumping up with glee as he nailed the chip shot from 19 yards out.

“It’s good! He did it!” I exclaimed to the empty basement save for myself.

Paredes extended his streak to 39 consecutive field goals made until it was snapped on Aug. 23 in Toronto.

4. Clutch Classic

There’s been plenty of clutch kicks on the last play of the game over the course of his career, but on Sep. 3, 2018, he made it classic.

His 43-yard field goal with zeroes on the clock lifted the Stamps to a 23-20 win over Edmonton on Labour Day. The win extended Calgary’s LDC win streak to seven in a row.

Looking back at some of our favourite Labour Day Classic moments!

First up Rene Paredes’ game-winning walk-off field goal in 2018 pic.twitter.com/cxsFw2LFbq

— Calgary Stampeders (@calstampeders) August 31, 2023

5. More Milestones for El Matador

After a pause in 2020, the CFL returned to action for the 2021 season and Paredes picked up right where he left off.

In a Week 1 matchup against the Argos, he became the 10th player in CFL history to kick 400 field goals.

In Week 6, he set a new career single-game high by kicking six field goals in a win at Edmonton and matched that figure again in Week 11 at BC.

6. Reliable Rene

This is probably my favourite moment, so I’ll set the scene for you.

It’s July 15, 2023, on the road in Regina.

Mason Fine has entered the game in relief of the injured Trevor Harris and throws up a prayer, Tevin Jones comes down with it to give the Riders a 31-30 lead with 42 seconds left on the clock.

Jake Maier engineers a drive to get the Stamps in field goal range.

Paredes, already 3/3 on the night, lines up on the left hashmarks for the 50-yard attempt.

The clock is at zero.

Mosaic Stadium is roaring.

I’m crouched on the sideline, half covering my face, ready to capture the team’s reaction if it’s good.

Of course, it’s good.

Paredes nails it right down the middle to send us home with the win.

EVERYONE HUG THE GOAT pic.twitter.com/FtkKnq529h

— Calgary Stampeders (@calstampeders) July 16, 2023

7. Walk-off Winnipeg

Speaking of walk-offs, Paredes showed off for the home crowd in Week 4 of the 2024 campaign, sending the Blue Bombers home in overtime to secure the 22-19 victory.

I’ll never tire of running out onto the field and recording the jubilant reactions as we all clamber to pat Rene on the back.

THE REACTION TO RENE’S GAME-WINNER pic.twitter.com/ZxZMQTtH1F

— Calgary Stampeders (@calstampeders) June 30, 2024

8. For Johnny

If you know Rene, you know he’s a class act on the field and off.

The morning of the Labour Day Classic, and only a couple days after the tragic loss of beloved Calgary Flame Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew, Paredes arrived at McMahon Stadium wearing his own Johnny Hockey jersey in honour of No. 13.

For Johnny pic.twitter.com/0Aad6IeTAH

— Calgary Stampeders (@calstampeders) September 2, 2024

9. Look at Curry Rene, Man

Steph Curry isn’t the only athlete wearing No. 30 and nailing threes from long distance.

It was just this past season that 39-year-old Paredes hit the longest field goal of his career, a 57-yard attempt that sailed through the uprights with room to spare.

Rene Paredes hits from 57 for the first time in his career!@oktire#LDWeekend #CFLGameDay

: @TSN_Sports & @CBSSportsNet
: CFL+ pic.twitter.com/ZUh36FChr9

— CFL (@CFL) September 2, 2024

10. 225

On Sep. 20, Paredes suited up for his 225th regular season game, the second-most in franchise history, only behind former kicker Mark McLoughlin who played 276 games for the Red and White.

Congratulations, Rene! pic.twitter.com/DXPvDOnMkb

— Calgary Stampeders (@calstampeders) September 21, 2024

Raise your hand, if like me, you can’t wait to see what magic Paredes has in store for the next two seasons.

Following a trade sending him east of the Rocky Mountains, Vernon Adams Jr. arrived in Calgary for the first time as a Stampeder on Wednesday.

The 31-year-old quarterback spent time taking in his new surroundings, touring the home side locker-room at McMahon Stadium for the first time and acquainting himself with coaches, staff and local media.

“I’m taking pictures like it’s the first day of school,” Adams remarked. “I’m excited to be here.”

yup he’s fitting in already pic.twitter.com/xf345rPETH

— Calgary Stampeders (@calstampeders) December 5, 2024

Renowned across the CFL as a ‘quarterback factory’ due to their knack for finding and developing their own pivots including, but not limited to, Jeff Garcia, Dave Dickenson, and Henry Burris, the Adams trade marks the first time the Stamps have actively sought out a QB since trading for Kevin Glenn in January of 2012, who at the time was intended to provide a veteran presence for starting quarterback Drew Tate and backups Brad Sinopoli and Bo Levi Mitchell.

Adams recognizes the winning foundation that Hufnagel, Dickenson and Co. have built in Calgary – a foundation that has trickled across the CFL in present day.

‘Big-Play V.A.’ is confident he can help steer the Stampeders back on track following the organization’s 5-12-1 performance in 2024.

“The team is good here; the system is good,” Adams explained. “You see (Argonauts head coach) Ryan Dinwiddie and (Roughriders head coach) Corey Mace and those teams being successful over there, that’s still a little bit of the Calgary system.

“Now we come here, and we spice it up a little bit, bring in a few more players and have the players we (already) have here be on the same page and let’s get back on track.”

The MOP-calibre passer declares himself a fan of the Stampeder offence and now finds himself inserted in a system he’s admired from afar.

“Watching film and watching Calgary’s offence, I’ve always liked what they’ve done and now we can add a few things here and there and have some fun with it,” he admitted.

The Eastern Washington alum informed he’s already reached out to the receivers and some of the offensive linemen and is looking forward to collaborating with offensive coordinator Pat DelMonaco throughout the off-season.

In preparation for the 2025 campaign, Adams informed he’ll be hosting a mini-camp in his home of Tacoma, Wash. – an initiative he started in Montreal – to create team chemistry and build strong relationships with the offence.

“It takes a village in this league to play good winning football and we’re going to push each other, hold each other accountable and try to be the best group in the league,” he said.
“I want guys here pushing me so I can be the best version of myself for this organization.”

Thanks for the warm welcome, @NHLFlames! pic.twitter.com/yOKDh1AjXc

— Calgary Stampeders (@calstampeders) December 6, 2024

As part of his Cowtown initiation, the Calgary Flames welcomed Adams to the Scotiabank Saddledome on Thursday evening.

Joining him at the ’Dome were Dave Dickenson, Pat DelMonaco, assistant general manager Brendan Mahoney, as well as receivers Malik Henry, Marken Michel, Jalen Philpot and kicker Rene Paredes.

The crew were introduced to the crowd and Harvey the Hound gifted V.A. with his first Flames jersey.

“The love and support I’ve received since the trade has been amazing,” Adams shared with Flames TV host Brendan Parker during the first-period intermission. “These fans are passionate and I’m glad to be here.

“Each year I’m growing more and more, getting better and better. I want to play smarter as I’m getting older and the one thing I’m missing is that championship so I think we have the team to do it here.

“We’ll go through free agency, training camp and then we’ll start building and finding that identity.”

“I’m trying to get to know these guys on a personal level, so when we are out there together (on the field) we’re fighting for each other, and we know we have each other’s backs.”

Only six more months to go until June.

We’re 31 days into the Red and White’s off-season and the club has stayed true to their word when announcing there would be changes made for 2025.

Piece Of The Puzzle

The Stamps acquired MOP-calibre QB Vernon Adams Jr. in a trade with the BC Lions last Tuesday. Also included in the package was a 2025 fourth-round pick (32nd overall) and a 2026 third-round pick in exchange for the Calgary’s 2025 second and fourth-round picks (9th and 25th), and 2026 second-round pick.

Lookin’ good, @bigplay_va pic.twitter.com/Z6TzuENDmM

— Calgary Stampeders (@calstampeders) November 27, 2024

The addition of V.A. is one of the first steps towards a new-look Stampeders group as president Jay McNeil and GM/HC Dave Dickenson continue to reconstruct the team for the 2025 season.

Other Transactions

The team brought back the following National players for next season:
• DL Anthony Federico
• REC Maxim Malenfant
• DB Jackson Sombach

Federico spent time with the team late in the year after signing a contract in mid-September.

Sombach was selected in the 7th round of the 2024 draft and participated in the Stamps rookie camp before being released to return to the University of Saskatchewan Rams. With the Rams this season, Sombach earned second-team all-Canadian honours and was named a Canada West all-star for the second time in his career after recording 38 tackles, two interceptions, one fumble recovery and nine passes defended in 11 games.

Malenfant was also present at Calgary’s rookie camp before suffering a foot injury and his subsequent release. After camp, he returned to the University of Ottawa.

Additionally, 2023 first-round pick Cole Tucker announced his retirement from professional football.

Thank you, Cole! pic.twitter.com/zYXXj1ARIh

— Calgary Stampeders (@calstampeders) November 23, 2024

Livin’ In The Hall Of Fame

Last week, the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame announced its class of 2025, which included long-time equipment manager George ‘Geo’ Hopkins.

The ceremony will take place June 7, at the Red Deer Resort and Casino.

READ MORE

Happy Birthday To Ya

There are 13 Stampeder birthdays in December, the most in any month with two pairings of players celebrating on the same day.

• DB Tyler Richardson – Dec. 5
• QB Matt Shiltz and DL Clarence Hicks – Dec. 7
• REC Mike Harley Jr. – Dec. 13
• QB Tommy Stevens – Dec. 15
• DL Kelon Thomas – Dec. 16
• OL Rodeem Brown – Dec. 17
• DL Kwadwo Boahen – Dec. 18
• REC Rysen John – Dec. 20
• DB Daniel Amoako – Dec. 22
• RB Dedrick Mills and DB Bailey Devine-Scott – Dec. 27
• DL Jaylon Hutchings – Dec. 31

Free Agent Tracker

The CFL revealed its pending free agent list for every club last week.

The Red and White currently have 30 players with contracts set to expire in February.

The CFL Free Agency period opens on Feb. 11, 2025 at 10 a.m. MT.

Known to most as Geo, the longtime equipment manager of the club is synonymous with Stampeders football, leaving his imprint on nearly every aspect of the game.

Next year, he will be recognized for his achievements when he enters the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame, class of 2025.

“It’s definitely an honour,” said Hopkins. “I jokingly say you hang around long enough and they don’t know what else to do with you, so they just give you something.

“But it very much is an honour and it’s sweet that I’m going in with Dwayne (Mandrusiak, former equipment manager for Edmonton’s CFL franchise) because we met at the Grey Cup in 1975. I was in Grade 10, he was in Grade 11, we met at that point in time, and we’ve been friends ever since.

“He’s one of the closest people, I went up for his mom’s funeral. We respect each other, and it means a lot to go in with him.”

It’s no secret the life of equipment managers isn’t a glamourous one.

Late nights and early mornings.

Fitting each team member with a customized array of equipment designed to provide maximum protection and safety.

Placing stickers on helmets exactly right, washing the jerseys, preparing the footballs, ordering gloves, socks, armbands, headbands, cleats, eye black and more.

Working meticulously behind-the-scenes to ensure every player, coach and staff member is equipped to perform at the highest level. Even offering a Gatorade and a chair to the digital producer in 35-degree heat as she captures photos of the players’ arrivals on game day (Thank you, Geo!)

For Hopkins, who’s worked more than 1,000 games, it’s more than a job.

“You don’t get tired of the people; you don’t get tired of the situations,” he informed. “Somebody said a longtime ago you get a job that you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life and that’s very true.

“That being said, one of the first years that I was here we were 2-12-2 and that was a long year. This past year was a little tougher in that respect because nobody around here is used to losing or likes to lose, but you do (the job) because you love it. You certainly don’t do it for the recognition.”

Hopkins was the 2023 winner of the CFL’s Hugh Campbell Distinguished Leadership Award, which honours an individual who has demonstrated great leadership and made significant contributions to the CFL. He was added to the Stampeders Wall of Fame in the builders’ category in 2014.

Over the course of his career, he’s been part of six Grey Cup wins, but there’s one that sticks out amongst the others.

“There’s been a ton of great moments,” said Hopkins, “but honestly, it’s the 1992 Grey Cup, because it was the first Grey Cup that we won (since 1971), and I’d been working for 20 years before I ever went to my first one (1991) and we lost to the Argos which has become all too familiar of a story.

“But in 1992, first play of the game Doug Flutie rolls out and hits Derrick Crawford across the middle for about 45 yards. I turned to Patty Clayton who was the therapist at the time, and I said, ‘We might win this one’, and it was a cake walk.

“That’s the one that I do remember because it was my first Grey Cup, I remember all of them, but I remember that moment like it was yesterday.”

Like anything in life, sports come with joys and sorrows.

Hopkins worked through the Save Our Stamps campaign during the ’80s and the untimely death of Mylan Hicks in 2016.

“The Mylan Hicks death was so tragic. It turned out to be a unifying force for the team that year, but it was really outside the realm of anything you think is possible.

“The one nice thing about being in team sports and being surrounded by a group of individuals like we have here is that the stressful moments don’t last.”

The Alberta Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony will take place at the Red Deer Resort and Casino on Saturday, June 7.

“I’m hoping there’s not a game that day,” said Hopkins, who’s only missed three games in his 53-year career. “I’m optimistic that I will be in Red Deer on the 7th for the ceremony.”

General manager and head coach Dave Dickenson has had his eye on Vernon Adams Jr. for a while now, dating back to 2014 when he paid a visit to current quarterbacks coach Beau Baldwin when he was the head boss at Eastern Washington University.

Ten years later, he got his guy.

On Tuesday morning, Dickenson and assistant general manager Brendan Mahoney finalized a deal with BC Lions GM Ryan Rigmaiden, acquiring Adams, a 2025 fourth-round pick (32nd overall), and a 2026 third-round pick in exchange for second and fourth-round picks in 2025 (ninth and 29th overall), and a second-round pick in 2026.

“It all happened so fast,” said Adams, who was chatting with Stamps defensive back Demerio Houston 15 minutes before he got a call from Rigmaiden informing him a trade had been executed with Calgary.

“I’m so happy and thankful to be part of a great organization. I’ve always wanted to play for Dave. I’ve known him since I was in college, and I have so much respect for him.”

Lookin’ good, @bigplay_va pic.twitter.com/Z6TzuENDmM

— Calgary Stampeders (@calstampeders) November 27, 2024

The Pasadena, Calif., native started nine games for the Leos in 2024, accumulating 2,854 passing yards and 19 total touchdowns, putting together a strong case for MOP before suffering an injury in early August and subsequently backing up Nathan Rourke until the final game of the regular season when Adams returned to starting duties.

The nine-year CFL vet is known to be a recruiter for his respective clubs and hopes to assist the Red and White in attracting some other pieces to the organization when the free agency period opens.

“I want to build a good team around me, get some good players in here, and try to change the culture up a little bit,” said Adams. “I think the (Stamps) had a good team. I look at the players on the roster, the receivers, obviously I want to bring some people with me from other teams.

“The word is Calgary isn’t usually big in free agency but sometimes you got to change things up. I’m not saying we’re going to be big, but maybe we need to bring in a few other players and spend money if we need to. That’s what it takes.

“(Calgary) wasn’t losing games by a lot of points – they were really close games. That means you’re that close to getting over that hump, so I’m hoping I can be a little piece to that and help us get over that hump.”

After missing the playoffs for the first time in 20 years, Dickenson and president Jay McNeil made it clear during exit meetings that change was imminent and the club would be aggressive this off-season.

“We’ve got to make some change,” said Dickenson. “We’ve done that, we’ve made some changes across the board in our organization and now here’s a piece of the puzzle when it comes to personnel.

“We as a staff need to be realistic about things, we can’t just do things the old way all the time. We’ve got to figure out who our team is, take advantage of what they’re good at, and morph.”

One of the first steps towards retooling for 2025 was convincing NFL talent P.J. Walker to take a chance on moving up north, resulting in a two-year contract.

With the addition of V.A., the quarterback room is morphing into a group of dynamic pivots who can rip the ball downfield with tremendous accuracy, while also using their elusiveness to avoid defenders when the throw isn’t there.

“We’re going to try to change what we do a little bit offensively with guys that can run a bit more and can make plays with their feet,” said Dickenson. “We also want to make sure we find some energy, and a guy that people gravitate towards, a great leader.”

Next, Dickenson aims to fill up the club’s coaching vacancies and re-structure scouting personnel before Christmas.

Although the Stampeders weren’t participating in the big game, there was still a large Calgary presence throughout Grey Cup week as fans, players and staff alike came together to celebrate for the biggest party in Canada.

Amongst those representing Red and White were president Jay McNeil and 2024 presidents’ ring winner Reggie Begelton who could be spotted mingling with fans at Stamps House.

Veteran kicker Rene Paredes was also present for the week’s festivities and assisted the Outriders in serving up some western hospitality at the Calgary Grey Cup Committee’s pancake breakfast.

 

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A Celebration Of Canada

“You see people from every team at every party out celebrating together,” said McNeil. “People come from all over the country to have fun and celebrate our great game.

“That’s what makes it so special. You have fans from every team celebrating together and coming into Stamps House seeing all the different jerseys and friendly banter, it’s a lot of fun.”

“It’s a community,” said Begelton. “Anytime you get to be personable without the helmet and show your face out in the community is a good opportunity.

“(The Grey Cup festival) is truly all nine teams being able to bond together for a like-term which is the CFL game and league as a whole. There may only be two teams in the Grey Cup, but as a family we all want to come together.”

The All-CFL receiver was also named the Athletes in Action Canada recipient of the Gord Barwell award. Nominated by team chaplains, the honour recognizes the CFL player who demonstrates outstanding Christian character and leadership.

Out With The Old, And In With The New…

Turf.

Last week McMahon Stadium began the process of removing the turf.

The playing surface was utilized for 10 seasons on which a pair of Grey Cup-champions teams – the 2014 and 2018 clubs – performed. Additionally, it played host to the 107^th Grey Cup in 2019.

The new turf will be installed in the new year and ready for when the Stamps return for camp in May, the inaugural season of the Northern Super League’s Calgary Wild FC, and of course for the 111^th Grey Cup in November 2026.

new turf coming soon pic.twitter.com/FYylLA0Nlv

— Calgary Stampeders (@calstampeders) November 14, 2024

Fast Facts

It wouldn’t be a Grey Cup party without ‘Tuffy Nuff’, the Calgary Grey Cup Committee horse making an appearance – a long-standing tradition of 76 years. In addition to visiting the hotel lobby, the beloved hooved guest made a visit to Stamps House for the first time.

horse sighting pic.twitter.com/n8fe2FxbAS

— Calgary Stampeders (@calstampeders) November 15, 2024

The former NFL and XFL quarterback has moved from city to city over the course of his career, spending time with the Indianapolis Colts (2017-19), Houston Roughnecks (2020), Carolina Panthers (2020-22), Chicago Bears (2023), Cleveland Browns (2023) and Seattle Seahawks (2024).

After joining the Red and White’s practice roster in October, the former Temple star got a better image of what his future could look like should he decide to test the northern waters and ultimately felt like the Stampeders gave him the best shot at playing the game he loves.

“(The decision to sign) was having an idea of what’s next to come for me personally and having the off-season to know what to look forward to and to see what the best opportunity was for me, and I feel like Calgary was the best one,” he explained.

The journey to Canada began on Oct. 8, when the 29-year-old quarterback and his family took a three-week test run of the organization to help get a feel for the city and the team.

“My whole mindset into taking the trip was to see if I’d enjoy it and see if it was something I’d be wanting to do,” he said. “It was great. I thought the experience was awesome, being able to be around the program, to meet Dave (Dickenson) and a lot of the other guys for me was just a fun experience.

“I would also say the city is awesome. It’s one of the better cities I’ve seen. It reminded me of Colorado.”

During his three-week stay Walker was able to observe the nuances of the CFL game from the sidelines.

“The game is definitely different,” he explained. “From my experience from watching, I feel like it’s a little bit faster, the running clock starts at 20 seconds, and you have to process things a lot quicker, so tempo will be the big thing.”

With the game’s challenges comes its opportunities.

Renowned for being a passing league, Walker is looking forward to bringing his skillset north of the border and help make the players around him better.

“Just go out there and compete at a high level and bring consistency and the same energy every day for my team, and for me to go out there and spread the ball around the football field and do what I love to do.

“And to also have the guys around me play at a high level, because I feel like if those guys are playing at a high level I’ll be doing the same thing. So just pushing those guys and bringing guys along, I think it takes a group effort to win, and I think if we can all put the same effort in, we can all go out there and be successful.”

Preparation for the 2025 season begins now.

Walker’s CFL footballs have arrived at his home in Charlotte, N.C., and he’s hoping to organize a throwing session with some of the receivers in Florida.

After finishing the season with a 5-12-1 record and missing the playoffs for the first time in 20 years, Walker understands the task at hand in doing his part to help get the organization back to its winning ways.

“For me it’s always to hold each other accountable,” he said. “I think that we can get lost in the sauce at times of what we’re doing, and we can take it for granted. Sometimes you can let things slip.

“When you’re always trying to fight for success and have that goal to get to the Grey Cup, I think accountability and ownership is going to go a long way in order for us to be successful as a team.

“It’s going to take a lot, but I think with the right guys in the locker room it will be (possible).”

The Stamps announced the signing of QB P.J. Walker on Monday afternoon.

Calgary initially acquired Walker’s negotiation-list rights in a Sept. 26 trade with the Toronto Argonauts. The 29-year-old pivot then signed with the Red and White on Oct. 8 and spent the last three weeks of the regular season on the team’s practice roster.

“Calgary is a beautiful city with a great football culture and a great fanbase,” said Walker. “The opportunity to continue to grow as a player and compete helped me make my decision to sign with the Stampeders.”

“We made the trade for P.J. for a reason,” said Stampeders general manager and head coach Dave Dickenson. “We’re doing everything we can to make our team better and that includes having a strong quarterback room. P.J. is going to be a big part of that.”

Walker is now currently the only quarterback signed through the 2025 season for the Red and White, with Jake Maier, Tommy Stevens, Matt Shiltz and Logan Bonner‘s contracts all set to expire come free agency in February.

WALK THIS WAY

We’ve signed QB P.J. Walker!@AGLC | #TogetherWeRide

— Calgary Stampeders (@calstampeders) November 11, 2024

Saddle Up For Grey Cup

Last Friday, CFL Commissioner Randy Ambrosie announced that Calgary will be hosting the 113th Grey Cup on Nov. 15, 2026, marking the sixth time the city hosts the championship contest.

In addition to Ambrosie, Stampeders President Jay McNeil, CSEC President and CEO Robert Hayes, Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek, and Alberta Minister of Tourism and Sport Joseph Schow teamed up in the Red and White locker room to present the special announcement to the public.

Fans can get a bite-size sampling of what’s to come at the Grey Cup festival in Vancouver this week, where Stamps House presented by Coors Light will be in full swing.

Located at the Vancouver Convention Centre West, Level 1, starting in the Burrard Foyer, the party will be open Thursday and Friday from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m., and Saturday from noon to 1 a.m.

Don’t miss out on attractions such as an appearance from Tuffy the Horse (a real live horse), performances from the Outriders and other CFL cheer teams, and a cornhole tournament with Reggie Begelton!

Fast Facts – Grey Cup In Cowtown Edition

As mentioned, Calgary has previously hosted five Grey Cup championships (1975, 1993, 2000, 2009, and 2019). One of Edmonton, Winnipeg, or Montreal has always appeared in at least two of the Grey Cup games played in Calgary.

63rd Grey Cup – Nov. 23, 1975
• The 63rd Grey Cup featured the Edmonton Eskimos and Montreal Alouettes in one of the lowest scoring championships in league history. The Green and Gold secured the victory by a 9-8 score in a contest that saw 25-kilometre winds and a temperature of -15 degrees Celsius.
• It was the first Grey Cup appearance for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who attended the game at four years old with his father Pierre.
• No touchdowns were scored in this game and all points were scored by Canadians (kickers Don Sweet and Dave Cutler).

81st Grey Cup – Nov. 28, 1993
• The Edmonton Eskimos took down the Winnipeg Blue Bombers 33-23 to capture their 11th championship in franchise history.
• In honour of the CFL’s first US-based team, the Sacramento Gold Miners (who began playing that season), ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ was sung at the Grey Cup for the first time, before the playing of ‘O Canada’. This continued for the next two Grey Cups.
• It was the first time a Grey Cup game in Calgary featured a halftime act (which didn’t begin until 1990. Up until then, the halftime performance was usually a marching band). Miss Molly performed at McMahon Stadium.

88th Grey Cup – Nov. 26, 2000
• The BC Lions claimed championship victory over the Montreal Alouettes by a score of 28-26, becoming the first team to win the Grey Cup after finishing the regular season with a record below .500 (8-10).
• This marked the first Grey Cup appearance for the Alouettes since 1979.
• The Winnipeg-based rock band The Guess Who performed the halftime show.

97th Grey Cup – Nov. 29, 2009
• The Montreal Alouettes defeated the Saskatchewan Roughriders 28-27 in what became the famous “too many men” game.
• It was the first time the Als and Riders met in the Grey Cup. They would battle it out again the following year in Edmonton, with Anthony Calvillo and Co. once again taking home the coveted sterling silver trophy.
• Calgarian and ‘The Girl Next Door’ star Elisha Cuthbert served as Grand Marshal in the Grey Cup parade.
• Canadian country rock band Blue Rodeo was the halftime act.

107th Grey Cup – Nov. 24, 2019
• The Winnipeg Blue Bombers dominated the Hamilton Tiger-Cats 33-12 to take home their first Grey Cup victory since 1990. The game could be argued as the start of the Blue and Gold’s ‘dynasty’ as they currently prepare for their fifth-straight Grey Cup appearance.
• Country singer Keith Urban performed at halftime.

In attendance to deliver the exciting news inside of the Red and White locker room included Randy Ambrosie (CFL Commissioner), Robert Hayes (CSEC President and CEO), Jay McNeil (Calgary Stampeders President), Jyoti Gondek (City of Calgary Mayor) and Joseph Schow (Alberta Minister of Tourism and Sport).

Jay McNeil

“The Grey Cup is biggest single-day sporting event in Canada, and we are honoured to be the host of the 113th Grey Cup in 2026.”

“Not only do we have the opportunity to have a long-term impact on the Calgary Stampeders organization, but we have an opportunity to have an impact on our city, our province, on our league, and on the game of football. It’s not just an opportunity, it’s a responsibility and it’s one that we’ve taken very seriously. We are planning a spectacle.”

“To fans across Canada, Calgary will be ready to welcome you with open arms and that western hospitality and give you an unforgettable experience.”

“To Calgarians and Stamps fans, this is more than just a week-long celebration. This is going to be a two-year journey, and we are excited to do that with you.”

“Canada, get ready to saddle up for Grey Cup.”

Randy Ambrosie

“(Calgary) is a city that is renowned for its hospitality and ability to throw a good party. This city will always hold a special place in my heart. You can never come here without feeling welcomed. We are looking forward to one of the great Grey Cup parties of all time.”

Robert Hayes

“We are incredibly thrilled to have the privilege of hosting the 2026 Grey Cup. This is truly going to be the City of Calgary’s Grey Cup. It’s going to bring excitement, energy, and investment to the city, and we are so ready to host it.”

Jyoti Gondek

“(The Grey Cup) is a game-changer for Calgary in many ways. This is putting us on the map yet again as a city that has an amazing visitor economy and a city that can welcome anybody and make them feel at home.”

Saddle up, Calgary!

The Calgary Stampeders will host the 113th Grey Cup in 2026!@CFL | #GreyCup | #TogetherWeRide

— Calgary Stampeders (@calstampeders) November 8, 2024

The organization announced there would be changes coming in preparation for the 2025 season.

Among the initial moves included the announcement that the club will not be retaining special-teams coordinator and assistant head coach Mark Kilam, defensive coordinator Brent Monson, or defensive line coach Juwan Simpson for next season.

“As an organization, we felt some changes were needed as part of the process of rebuilding a winning team,” said general manager and head coach Dave Dickenson. “We thank these coaches for their contributions to the organization and wish them the best.”

Transactions

Only ten days into the off-season the Red and White have yet to re-sign any veteran players but announced they brought back the following practice roster players last Tuesday:

• American defensive backs Clifford Chattman and Meiko Dotson
• American defensive lineman Jett Bush
• American receiver Mike Harley Jr.

Dotson was the only member of the group to see playing time during the 2024 campaign. He made his debut in time for the Labour Day Rematch on Sep. 7 and tallied one special-teams tackle in the contest.

Happy Birthday To Ya

There are five Stampeder birthdays in November, with two players sharing their special day together:

• OL Joshua Coker – Nov. 13
• DB Kobe Williams – Nov. 16
• RB Peyton Logan and DB Branden Dozier – Nov. 28
• LB Cameron Judge – Nov. 29

Other notable Stamps alums celebrating their birthdays this month include Jon Cornish (Nov. 5), Ron Hopkins (Nov. 10), Joffrey Reynolds (Nov. 26) and recently retired Keon Raymond (Nov. 27).

Fun Fact

This week in Stamps history (1948): In their third season, the Stampeders completed a 21-10 victory over Saskatchewan in a two-game, total-point final to win the franchise’s first West championship. Two weeks later, they beat Ottawa in the Grey Cup to complete the only undefeated season in league history.

Thanks to our Director of Communications Jean Lefebvre for handing off these facts!

Now, the organization looks ahead to 2025.

General manager and head coach Dave Dickenson along with several players addressed the media as the team cleaned out their lockers on Sunday morning.

Dave Dickenson on improving for the 2025 season.

“I have a plan. I do expect it to work and we’ll have to see how it goes as we move forward.”

Veteran kicker Rene Paredes wrapped up his 13^th season in the CFL. The 39-year-old wasted no time announcing he intends to return for another season come next June.

Rene Paredes on the Stamps returning to a winning culture:

“I’m going to be straight honest,” said Paredes. “We haven’t won a playoff game since ’18, haven’t hosted a home playoff game since ’19, last year we barely made the playoffs and this year we didn’t. So, it’s tough for me to say but we’ve been declining as an organization.

“All of the coaches and players work hard every day and that’s something I’m not going to deny. But as the guy who’s been here for so long and getting messages from alumni who are wondering what’s going on, when you go 5-12-1, things are going to change. That’s not for me to decide but I love this city and this organization and hopefully something good comes out of this.”

Reggie Begelton on what to expect come training camp in May:

“It’s a character-building type of year and we’ll see who actually put in the work in the off-season.”

On his individual accolades in 2024:

“I come in striving to be consistent,” he said. “I have a standard for myself, and I refuse to allow myself to get below that standard. I come here every day to be a professional football player and that’s what I’m going to do.”

Jake Maier on the 2024 season:

“The commitment was there. That’s how it will always be for me, as long as I’m playing this league I’m always going to be as committed as I possibly can in all areas. I’m proud of that. Obviously, the results not so much, but that’s the nature of this beast.”

Mike Rose on a disappointing 2024 campaign:

“We have to re-group, re-focus, and see what we can do better for next year.”

Cameron Judge on the defensive struggles throughout the season:

“We strayed away from the details, especially in big moments of the game.”

Sean McEwen on not making the playoffs for the first time as a Stampeder:

“It’s tough. It’s obviously not the season we envisioned when we set out for training camp. We’ve got a lot of hunger this off-season for next year.”

Demerio Houston on his first season in Red and White and working with Calgary’s secondary:

“It’s been great. We’ve had our ups and downs but at the end of the season those are the guys that we ride for.”

The Stamps end the season with a 5-12-1 record.

Clark Barnes, Cam Echols and Marken Michel had touchdowns in the win.

STAT PACK

Jake Maier – 19-for-26, 293-yards, three touchdowns

Dedrick Mills – 20 rushes, 128-yards

Clark Barnes – three receptions, 90-yards, one touchdown

Demerio Houston – five tackles, one sack

It was the Riders who drove the field first on their first time with the ball. They couldn’t find the endzone however, leading to a field-goal and 3-0 lead.

Two deep passes to Clark Barnes from Jake Maier led to a quick touchdown from the Stamps to put them up 7-3 with 57-seconds to go in the first quarter.

Call it back-to-back for Barnes. TOUCHDOWN CALGARY!#CFLGameday
:@TSN_Sports
: CFL+ pic.twitter.com/M10lEfcBkJ

— CFL (@CFL) October 26, 2024

That was the score following one quarter of play.

The Stamps extended their lead early in the second-quarter as Maier found Cam Echols in the back of the endzone on a third-down gamble to make the score 14-3.

OH MY… that touchdown deserves a good dance .

Stamps widen the lead!#CFLGameday
:@TSN_Sports
: CFL+ pic.twitter.com/35oehhvUzE

— CFL (@CFL) October 27, 2024

The two teams traded punts the rest of the quarter making the score 14-3 Stampeders at the half.

The Riders came out of the half adding a field-goal to make the score 14-6.

A big throw to Dedrick Mills set up a short field-goal for Calgary to make it 17-6 with 8:11 remaining in the third-quarter.

The Stampeders fumbled deep in Rider territory as they were looking to add to the lead, turning it over with 2:25 to go in the third. The Riders were unable to do anything with the possession and punted the ball away.

Maier found Marken Michel for a 67-yard touchdown early in the fourth quarter to make the score 24-6.

Marken Michel completes a 79 YARD DRIVE!

TD CALGARY . #CFLGameday
: @TSN_Sports
:CFL+ pic.twitter.com/6qK7GQhrpR

— CFL (@CFL) October 27, 2024

The Riders countered with their first major of the game on their next drive to cut the Stampeders lead to 24-12 after an unsuccessful two-point convert.

The Stamps added a field-goal from 36-yards out to go up 27-12.

That would be the final score.

1. Us

The Stampeders wrap up the 2024 season with a battle in Saskatchewan against the Roughriders on Saturday. Calgary has a chance to play spoiler this week against their rival. A win would stop the Riders from clinching first place in the West. Last weekend, the Stamps fell 42-20 to Hamilton. Veteran cornerback Tre Roberson had an interception for a touchdown in the loss.

an early bday td for @tre5_roberson pic.twitter.com/jlvuf1yYDl

— Calgary Stampeders (@calstampeders) October 22, 2024

2. Them

The Riders have a chance to take first place in the West Division with a win, combined with a Winnipeg loss to Montreal, Saturday afternoon. It would be the first time since 2019 that the Riders finish in the top spot.

3. Head to Head

This is the second and final regular season meeting between these two clubs. The Riders came away with a 37-29 victory at McMahon Stadium during Week 16. Calgary will look to win their first road game of the season this week – they have never gone an entire season in the CFL without a road victory.

4. Fast Facts

The Red and White have a 6-1 regular season record in Regina since Mosaic Stadium opened its doors in 2017. Including the final three games at the venue known for most of its existence as Taylor Field, the Stamps are 9-1 in their 10 most recent regular season visits to Saskatchewan.

Tommy Stevens is two rushing touchdowns away from setting the Stamps single-season rushing touchdowns by a quarterback record. He currently has 10 on the season and sits one back of Doug Flutie and Henry Burris who are tied for the record with 11.

Thanks to our Director of Communications Jean Lefebvre for handing off these facts!

we love Tommy time pic.twitter.com/AieQ1B2DOw

— Calgary Stampeders (@calstampeders) September 21, 2024

5. Who’s Where

6. Players to Watch

Stamps: DL Clarence Hicks: The rookie defensive lineman had two sacks last weekend against Hamilton bringing his total to four on the year. He has also added two interceptions and 15 total tackles this season. On Wednesday he was voted as Calgary’s nominee for the Most Outstanding Rookie award.

BIG MAN INTERCEPTION COURTESY OF CLARENCE HICKS! #CFLGameday on TSN & CBS SN
: Stream on CFL+ pic.twitter.com/ZBO5IlUHCo

— CFL (@CFL) June 29, 2024

Riders: DB Rolan Milligan Jr.: Milligan Jr. enters the final week of the regular season with a lot of ‘MOP’ talk surrounding him. He has a league-leading eight interceptions, is second in the league in special-teams tackles with 20 and has 71 defensive tackles as well.

7. Quotable:

“Football can really reveal your character, especially in tough times, so (we) need to bring the same intensity (every week) whether it’s a championship game or a meaningless game.” – LB Cam Judge on the approach for the last game of the season.

The Stamps kicked off the last week of their 2024 campaign Tuesday morning.

Players were met with a chill in the air and a dusting of snow on the turf, but in true Calgary fashion the sun was shining, and the snow had melted by the end of practice.

The curtains on a disappointing season will come to a close with the Red and White’s final game of the campaign slated for Saturday against the Roughriders in Regina at 5 p.m.

RELATED
» DETAILS: Stamps Unveil New Mobile App
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» WATCH: 1-on-1 with Kylin Hill
» READ: Reggie Receives Presidents’ Ring
» WATCH: Begelton 2024 Presidents’ Ring Winner

 

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Who’s Starting?

General manager and head coach Dave Dickenson made clear that the starting pivot for Saturday’s finale remains to be determined. However, he did confirm that QB P.J. Walker will not dress.

Although Matt Shiltz returned from an injury he suffered in the third quarter to close out last Friday’s contest against the Ticats, the 31-year-old did not practice in today’s session. Dickenson is optimistic Shiltz’s health could improve before the team heads to Saskatchewan at the end of the week, keeping him open as another option to play.

One More Shot

“I’m counting on these guys to give me their best, and hopefully we’ll come out of there with a win,” Dickenson told reporters on earning that elusive road win and ending the team’s losing streak away from McMahon Stadium in their last contest of the season.

To end on a high note, the Stamps will have to give it everything they’ve got as they prepare for a Corey Mace-led team that’s fighting for first place in the West Division against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

Injury Report presented by Mayfair Diagnostics

In addition to Shiltz (neck), the following also sat out of Tuesday’s practice: Receivers Ishmael Hyman (calf) and Cole Tucker (hamstring), and linebacker Darius Williams (wrist).

Matt Shiltz had a touchdown in the loss.

STAT PACK 

Matt Shiltz – 12-for-24, 124-yards, one interception, 43-yards rushing, one rushing touchdown

Dedrick Mills – 12 carries, 76-yards

Marken Michel – three receptions, 46-yards

Kobe Wiliams – six tackles

The Stamps started with the ball on Friday night and made their way down the field quickly with some long runs but Matt Shiltz was picked off deep in Hamilton territory to end the opening drive with zero points.

The Ticats made short work of the long field, eventually working the ball into the endzone with a short pass to make the score 7-0.

Following a shanked punt by the Stamps, Hamilton found the endzone again, with a short field to work with, making it 14-0.

That was the score following one quarter of play.

Hamilton scored on their first play of the second-quarter to make the score 20-0 following a missed extra-point.

The Tiger-Cats scored a touchdown on their fourth-straight drive to start the game extending their lead to 27-0 with 10:15 to go in the half.

Hamilton added a field-goal with just over two-minutes to go until halftime to make it 30-0.

The Stampeders got on the board with a 45-yard field-goal by Rene Paredes to make it 30-3.

Tre Roberson picked off Bo Levi Mitchell on the next drive and took it to the house to make the score 30-9 going into the half following a missed extra-point.

OMG TRE ROBERSON#CFLGameday on TSN & CBS SN
: Stream on CFL+ pic.twitter.com/JCSlGlEoJA

— CFL (@CFL) October 19, 2024

Hamilton started their second half with a field goal to make it a 33-9 lead.

Following a long pass-interference call, Shiltz scrambled into the endzone from 15-yards out. That made the score 33-17 following a successful two-point conversion.

SUPERSONIC SHILTZ #CFLGameday on TSN & CBS SN
: Stream on CFL+ pic.twitter.com/wNA7sCquwJ

— CFL (@CFL) October 19, 2024

Rene Paredes hit a field goal from 42-yards out to get the Stamps a little closer. The score was 33-20 heading into the fourth quarter.

The Tiger-Cats pushed their lead to 16 with a field-goal to make the score 36-20 early in the fourth.

Hamilton added their fifth passing touchdown of the night to go ahead 42-20 with 6:30 remaining in the game following a missed two-point conversion.

That was the final.

UP NEXT 

The Stampeders wrap up their season in Saskatchewan Saturday, Oct. 26.

THEY SAID

1. Us

The Stampeders are off to Hamilton for Week 20 of the CFL season. They will look to snap a 0-7-1 stretch as they head into the second last game of the year. Matt Shiltz will get his second-straight start. He went 18-for-33 for 215 yards passing, one touchdown and one interception in last week’s 23-18 loss to Edmonton. He also had 64-yards on the ground.

Keep reeling them in Reg

VOTE: https://t.co/TfUOdT60pn#ALLCFL #TogetherWeRide pic.twitter.com/I2AbdSJAO9

— Calgary Stampeders (@calstampeders) October 16, 2024

2. Them

The Tiger-Cats will also not be making it to the post-season in 2024. They enter Week 20 following a bye. Their last time out it was a 31-10 loss to Winnipeg in Week 18. Bo Levi Mitchell will face his former team with a league-leading 4,576 passing yards to go along with 26 touchdowns which is also tops in the CFL.

3. Head to Head

This is the second and final regular season meeting between these two. Calgary picked up a 32-24 home-opening win back on June 7. Clark Barnes and Cam Echols had touchdowns in the victory and Dedrick Mills had 87-yards on the ground.

4. Fast Facts

Veteran receiver Reggie Begelton is the 2024 recipient of the Calgary Stampeders’ Presidents’ Ring award.

The Presidents’ Ring has been presented annually since 1967 to the Stampeders player who best demonstrates excellence on and off the field as voted by the players. Candidates are judged on their in-game contributions, leadership, inspiration and motivational skills.

Thanks to our Director of Communications Jean Lefebvre for handing off these facts!

5. Who’s Where

6. Players to Watch

Stamps: REC Cam Echols: Echols, as mentioned, scored his first CFL touchdown the last time these two met. The rookie has 332 yards and three touchdowns in ten games played this season.

Ticats: DB Stavros Katsantonis: The UBC alum in his fourth year in the CFL has proven dangerous in the Steeltown secondary over the past two seasons. The 28-year-old has 46 tackles, one sack and one interception through twelve games played this season.

7. Quotable

“We’re trying to win. That’s the first priority.” – General manager and head coach Dave Dickenson on preparing for the last two games of the season and what the lineups will look like.

The Stamps kicked off their short week with a closed practice and will get one more session in tomorrow before heading east to The Hammer on Thursday.

Ghost, Malik Henry’s new puppy, made a visit to his dad’s office and took in the action this fine fall morning.

 

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Back to Matt

It appears that seven-year CFL vet Matt Shiltz will remain atop the depth chart entering Week 20’s tilt against his former club. The 31-year-old dressed in 28 games and made six starts over his two-year stint with the Ticats.

In his first start in a red and white uniform, he completed 18 of 33 passes for 215 yards, one touchdown and one interception while carrying the ball five times for 64 yards.

Men At Work meet Men Without Hats

Aussie DB Bailey Devine-Scott made his second career start at the SAM position last weekend as he continues to fill in for the injured Branden Dozier. The 2022 global draft selection also picked up a safety as he brought down Tre Ford in the end zone for his first career sack.

Let’s take a moment to play Down Under and The Safety Dance back-to-back in honour of this Australian-Canadian heritage moment.

(Don’t judge this Gen Z notetaker for just realizing they were two different bands).

Injury Report presented by Mayfair Diagnostics

Defensive back Daniel Amoako was listed as a full participant in practice. The 2022 draft pick has been sidelined since suffering a knee injury in the second pre-season game of 2023. Receiver Cam Echols returned to the gridiron and was a full participant in practice after being missing last week’s contest due to a scary head injury he suffered in BC. Rookie wideout/returner Erik Brooks was a limited participant in practice, marking the first we’ve seen of him since he suffered an arm injury in July. Fellow pass catcher Reggie Begelton (illness) was absent for Tuesday’s session.

Jalen Philpot and Tommy Stevens had touchdowns in the loss.

STAT PACK 

Matt Shiltz – 18-for-33, 215-yards, one touchdown, one interception, 64 rushing-yards

Dedrick Mills – seven rushes, 36-yards

Reggie Begelton – five receptions, 79-yards

Ben Labrosse – six tackles, one pass knockdown

After a coffin-corner punt from Cody Grace on the Stamps first drive, global player Bailey Devine-Scott sacked Tre Ford in the endzone for a safety and his first career sack in the CFL. The score was 2-0 Stampeders.

Calgary added a field goal following a 54-yard pass from Matt Shiltz to Reggie Begelton. Begelton crossed the 1,000 yard mark for the third time in his career on the play and the score was 5-0.

James Vaughters got a sack on the Elks next drive forcing Edmonton into a second-and-29 and eventually a punt.

The Elks found the endzone with 9:27 remaining in the half, in large part due to Ford using his legs to escape pressure. The score was 7-5 Edmonton.

Edmonton added a kickoff-single on the ensuing kick to make it 8-5.

The Elks found the endzone again on a lengthy drive with 2:22 left in the second quarter and added another kickoff-single to make the score 16-5.

That was the score at the half.

It took until 5:13 left in the third quarter for any points to hit the board in the second half and they came by way of the Elks third rouge of the afternoon making the score 17-5.

The Stampeders got into the endzone with 7:30 remaining in the fourth quarter as Shiltz found Jalen Philpot from three-yards out. The two-point conversion was unsuccessful making the score 17-11 Elks.

Philpot makes it a close game as the Stamps get six!

Thanksgiving Weekend Presented by @PurolatorInc#CFLGameDay LIVE on CTV
:Stream on CFL+ pic.twitter.com/Kw33XiSl4q

— CFL (@CFL) October 12, 2024

Clarence Hicks picked off Ford with a beautiful tip to himself and diving catch giving the Stampeders the ball at the Edmonton 29-yardline.

Calgary turns up the HEAT with a massive pick late in the 4th !

Thanksgiving Weekend Presented by @PurolatorInc#CFLGameDay LIVE on CTV
:Stream on CFL+ pic.twitter.com/ZXwNwCWiyo

— CFL (@CFL) October 12, 2024

Shiltz ran the ball 16-yards on the first play of the drive and then the possession was finished off with a Tommy Stevens rushing touchdown to give the Stamps the 18-17 lead with 4:38 to go.

PICK TD Stamps up!

Calgary up by one late!

Thanksgiving Weekend Presented by @PurolatorInc#CFLGameDay LIVE on CTV
:Stream on CFL+ pic.twitter.com/rGFdSZt9HI

— CFL (@CFL) October 12, 2024

The Elks answered back with a strong ground attack leading to a major and giving them the lead back, 23-18, with 1:09 remaining.

Calgary moved the ball down to the Edmonton five-yardline with two-seconds remaining thanks to a pass-interference call but were unable to find the endzone on the last play of the game losing 23-18 in the final game at McMahon Stadium this season.

NEXT UP

Calgary is in Hamilton to take on the Tiger-Cats Friday, Oct. 18 at 5pm MT.

THEY SAID

1. Us

The Stampeders head into Week 19 looking for their first win since a 27-23 home victory over Toronto on Aug. 4. Calgary will miss the playoffs for the first time since 2004 following last week’s loss to BC coupled with a Saskatchewan win over Edmonton in Week 18. It appears as though the Stampeders will go with Matt Shiltz at quarterback on Saturday when they take on the Elks in the home finale at McMahon Stadium.

BUY NOW

Shiltz came in during the fourth-quarter of last week’s loss to the Lions, going four-for-five for 99-yards with a touchdown pass.

Deep shot for six! @ReggieBegelton gets behind the BC defence for the major. He’s just six yards away from 1,000 for the season.#CFLGameDay LIVE on @TSN_Sports
: Stream on CFL+ pic.twitter.com/JNIrXIW61s

— CFL (@CFL) October 5, 2024

2. Them

The Elks will also miss the playoffs this season following a promising middle of the year that had some hopes up in Edmonton. They have lost three-straight games heading into their final clash with the Stamps. Tre Ford will get the start at QB for Edmonton, his first start under centre since getting injured against the Lions Aug. 11.

3. Head to Head

This is the third and final regular–season meeting between these two. Edmonton won the first two by scores of 35-20 and 37-16. It’s the first time since both teams have entered the league that neither has made the CFL playoffs in a season.

4. Fast Facts

Calgary slotback Reggie Begelton goes into this week’s contest six receiving yards shy of a second consecutive 1,000-yard season. It would be the third such season of his career.

After this week’s contest, the Stamps wrap up the regular-season schedule with games in Hamilton and Regina.

Calgary Stampeders receiver Marken Michel is the 2024 recipient of the Herm Harrison Memorial Award.

Established in 2013, the annual award recognizes a Stampeders player for his outstanding community service. One of the franchise’s all-time greats, Herm Harrison played for the Stampeders from 1964-72 and was a West Division all-star on six occasions and a CFL all-star three times. Harrison remained in Calgary following his playing days and continued to support numerous community initiatives.

Thanks to our Director of Communications Jean Lefebvre for handing off these facts!

5. Who’s Where

6. Players to Watch

Stamps: DL Julian Howsare: Howsare registered six tackles and two sacks in last week’s loss in Vancouver. He now has 30 tackles and four sacks on the season which is two behind Mike Rose for the team lead.

Elks: QB Tre Ford: Ford enters the Battle of Alberta for the first time this season. So far this year he has 604 yards passing to go along with six touchdown passes and three interceptions. He has also done some damage on the ground rushing the ball 14 times for 92-yards.

7. Quotable

“There’s not going to be any kind of issue in terms of how hard guys are going to play. That will to win and will to play is always going to be there. It’s a blessing everyday and you can’t take that opportunity for granted any time you get to step out on the field.” – QB Matt Shiltz on the mentality heading into Saturday’s contest against the Elks.

The Stampeders returned to practice this morning after news they were eliminated from playoff contention over the weekend, marking the first time the Red and White will miss the post-season in 20 years.

However, the club is committed to putting the best possible product on the field for the remainder of the season and expects a competitive final 18 days as practice roster players and veterans alike continue to battle for playing time.

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Saturday’s Starter TBD

General manager and head coach Dave Dickenson has yet to name a starting pivot for Saturday’s matinee. However, 31-year-old QB Matt Shiltz, who took over in the dying minutes of last week’s contest, took majority of the first team reps at practice this morning.

Shiltz completed four of five passes and threw for 99 yards and one touchdown, as well as tallying 26 yards on the ground in his first taste of game action in the 2024 campaign.

Previously, the free–agent acquisition was sidelined for seven games after suffering an ankle injury in practice earlier this season.

Welcome to Calgary, Walker

In other quarterback news, the team announced the signing of former NFL and XFL QB P.J. Walker this morning. The 29-year-old played 21 games in the NFL from 2020-2023 and made nine starts – seven for the Carolina Panthers and two for the Cleveland Browns. He completed 185 of 339 passes for 2,135 yards and six touchdowns while rushing 31 times for 80 yards.

He led the XFL’s Houston Roughnecks to a 5-0 record in 2020 and was leading the league with 1,338 passing yards and 15 touchdowns when the season was cancelled due to the global pandemic.

Injury Report presented by Mayfair Diagnostics

Canadian pass catcher Clark Barnes had an active presence at practice today after missing last week’s game in BC. Meanwhile, fellow receivers Jalen Philpot (illness) and Cam Echols (head) were absent. Defensive back Demerio Houston (illness) was also not present this morning.

The Stampeders will miss the post-season for the first time in 20 years, bringing their playoff streak to an end at 18 straight appearances.

It was made official following a 32-15 loss to the BC Lions (8-8) combined with a Saskatchewan Roughriders (8-7-1) 28-24 win over the Edmonton Elks (5-11) on Saturday.

It’s new territory for fans and players alike, including veteran linebacker Cameron Judge who will miss competing in November for the first time in his career.

“It’s definitely a new feeling,” he admitted. “I’m still getting used to it, even today.”

“I’ll be honest, yeah, it’s tough when you’re playing basically for nothing but you’re still playing for your pride, and you still want to win.

“It’s a weird feeling for sure, but I’m just coming out here to practice like I would any other week and trying to become an even better player.”

Obviously, the ultimate goal in any sport is always to win the championship at the end of the season and it’s easy to toss a bad year into the trash when you fall short.

But even seasons full of disappointment and frustration can lead to growth and development going forward.

“(There’s) no wasted seasons,” said Judge. “I spent the whole year on the bench in Toronto, but I felt I was able to become a better player through practicing hard and preparing like I’m going to play each and every week and treating each week like it was a championship game.

“You got to take advantage of the three weeks of practice we have left and just try to become the best player possible.”

The Red and White will fight to the final whistle, with their next outing a Thanksgiving edition of the Battle of Alberta when the Elks come to town for a matinee this Saturday. Kickoff for the provincial tilt goes at 1 p.m.

Then the club will wrap up the year with back-to-back games on the road, first against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and then finally against the Saskatchewan Roughriders.

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The loss drops the Stampeders to 4-10-1 while the Lions climb to 8-8 on the season.

Ishmael Hyman and Reggie Begelton had the Stampeders touchdowns in the loss.

STAT PACK 

Jake Maier – 19-for-27 for 164-yards, one touchdown, two interceptions

Peyton Logan – 15 carries for 89 yards

Reggie Begelton – 73 yards and one touchdown

Julian Howsare – six tackles and two sacks

The Lions started with the ball on Friday night in Vancouver. After a couple of first downs the Stampeders forced a punt thanks to a Julian Howsare sack on second down.

The Stampeders were driving into Lions territory but fumbled the football which was recovered by the BC and returned to the Calgary 22-yardline. The Lions would open the scoring with a field goal to make it 3-0.

That would be the only scoring heading into the second-quarter.

Howsare got another second-down sack to stall the first Lions drive of the quarter and get the ball back at the Calgary 35-yardline following a Leo’s punt.

Calgary ran the ball effectively on their next drive leading to a 10-yard touchdown pass from Jake Maier to Ishmael Hyman to give the Stampeders the 7-3 lead.

Ishmael Hyman gets Calgary on the board in quarter two! #CFLGameDay LIVE on @TSN_Sports
: Stream on CFL+ pic.twitter.com/B2IazQ19N4

— CFL (@CFL) October 5, 2024

BC countered with a field goal at the end of the first half to make the score 7-6 Calgary heading into halftime.

The Stampeders booted a 56-yard punt-single on their first possession of the second-half to make the score 8-6.

The Lions moved the ball through the air leading to another field-goal, giving them the 9-8 lead with 6:49 to go in the third-quarter.

BC hit for a big passing play of 50-yards to get down to the Stampeders 32-yardline as the game rolled into the fourth-quarter.

That drive was ended with a 15-yard field goal to make the Lions lead 12-8 with 11:49 remaining in the game.

Maier was picked-off on the next Stamps drive and the interception was taken all the way back for a touchdown to make the score 19-8.

The Lions swatted down a backwards screen pass on the next drive and scooped the fumble for their second-straight defensive touchdown to make the score 26-8 with 8:21 to go.

The Stamps were intercepted again on the next drive. The Lions returned the ball to the Calgary 18-yardline. The Lions go a field goal out of that drive to extend their lead to 29-8.

Matt Shiltz came in at quarterback for Calgary and found Reggie Begelton from 53-yards out on his first throw of the season to cut the Lions lead to 29-14.

Deep shot for six! @ReggieBegelton gets behind the BC defence for the major. He’s just six yards away from 1,000 for the season.#CFLGameDay LIVE on @TSN_Sports
: Stream on CFL+ pic.twitter.com/JNIrXIW61s

— CFL (@CFL) October 5, 2024

The Lions tacked on their sixth field goal of the night following a Stampeders onside kick to make the score 32-15 with one-minute remaining.

That would be the final score.

NEXT UP

The Stampeders host the Edmonton Elks Saturday, Oct. 12 in their final regular season game at McMahon Stadium in 2024.

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THEY SAID

1. Us

The Stampeders enter Week 18 looking at a must-win game. Calgary finds themselves five-points back of the BC Lions, who they face this week, with four games remaining and a game in hand. A win this week would also give the Stamps the head-to-head season series in the case of a tie at the end of the season. Calgary is currently on an 0-5-1 slide in their last six games but are coming off a bye week in Week 17.

Sixty nine yards to the house for Tommy Stevens! @calstampeders lead after their opening drive at home. #CFLGameday on @TSN_Sports
: Stream on CFL+ pic.twitter.com/hOuHiBekaF

— CFL (@CFL) September 21, 2024

2. Them

The Lions look to snap a two-game losing streak when they host the Stamps on Friday night. BC sits in third in the West Division, but has Calgary, Edmonton and the potential of a Hamilton crossover in their rearview mirror and are just one point back of Saskatchewan for a home playoff game in the West Semi-Final.

CHOO CHOO NATHAN ROURKE WAITS FOR NO ONE!

Lions for six!#CFLGameDay@TSN_Sports
: Stream on CFL+ pic.twitter.com/ck4bnNkmuq

— CFL (@CFL) September 28, 2024

3. Head to Head

This is the third and final regular season meeting between these two clubs. They split the first two games 26-17 in Vancouver and 25-24 in Calgary with both home teams winning. Jake Maier has done well against the Lions this season throwing for 646 yards and 5 touchdowns this year.

4. Fast Facts

Calgary slotback Reggie Begelton heads into this week’s game 79 receiving yards shy of a second consecutive 1,000-yard season and the third of his career. Begelton established a career high of 1,444 receiving yards in 2019 and had 1,119 yards a year ago.

In addition, Begelton needs 60 yards to crack Calgary’s all-time top 10 in receiving yards.

Thanks to our Director of Communications Jean Lefebvre for handing off these facts!

VOTE FOR REGGIE IN ALL-CFL 2024

What a catch by @ReggieBegelton! He’s over 100 yards on the day for Calgary. @oktire #LDWeekend#CFLGameDay
: @TSN_Sports & @CBSSportsNet
: CFL+ pic.twitter.com/5lJLX8kIAw

— CFL (@CFL) September 3, 2024

5. Who’s Where

6. Players to Watch

Stamps: OL Zack Williams: Williams is back for his second game following a six-game absence with a calf injury. The veteran left guard helped guide the Stamps to 194 yards on the ground in his return in Week 16.

Lions: QB Nathan Rourke: This will be the first the Stampeders see of the Canadian quarterback since his return to the CFL. Rourke has 1363 yards passing in six starts this season to go along with four touchdowns and seven interceptions.

7. Quotable

“I think we’re going to play one of our best games of the season. Now we gotta go prove it.” – QB Jake Maier on a must-win game against the BC Lions.

Candice Ward, an Indigenous freelance sports photographer, returned to Calgary to cover the team’s inaugural Indigenous Celebration game on Sept. 14.

After relocating to Las Vegas in 2022, Ward currently works with clients such as Getty Images, the Canadian Olympic Committee for Pairs 2024 and has done recent work for the NHL.

But she started taking photos of the Stampeders in 2007 while she was attending SAIT and covered the team editorially until officially joining the team as a contract game day photographer in 2018.

It only made sense to her to take time out of her crowded schedule to come shoot for the club’s first game honouring Indigenous communities in and surrounding the Calgary area.

“I think it was important to see that there are Indigenous people telling these stories, covering sports and in the sports space,” said Ward. “So, being with a team that I had been covering for so long, it just made sense for me to be there.

“It’s a team I’m familiar with and the team for the most part is familiar with me, and aside from the game itself it made sense to be there from a cultural component, to tell our own stories and cover it properly.”

Candice Ward

As a photographer, Ward’s mission is to capture and tell stories. Although her talents utilize a visual medium, storytelling is a practice that is integral to Indigenous culture.

“The two are hand-in-hand,” she said.

“My job is storytelling but also my culture is very storytelling. They’re different where my culture is more oral, and my job is more visual so it’s kind of bringing the two together. But I think the ability to tell the visual story involves the ability to create relationships and that’s very much a cultural thing.

“If you want to be getting the information, and receiving trust and getting the stories, you really have to build a strong relationship to get to that point and be able to do it right.

“So, aside from what I do, doing business with Indigenous people or obtaining knowledge from people, it takes a lot of trust, and I try to bring that into how I approach work. I think that resonates in a lot of the relationships I’ve built in the sports world with other creators, players, or coaches.”

Candice Ward

As Ward continues to break barriers as one of the only Indigenous women working in her field at the pro sports level, she strives to ameliorate her outreach to others in her community.

“It’s super important to me, but I feel like I’m failing in uplifting other people,” said Ward.

“I feel like I’m not visible enough to the right people. A lot of people in my community still don’t know that I’m Indigenous or that I’m there holding space and wanting to help uplift other people in the community.

“Again, it comes back to building the relationships and building the trust, and I’ve been in the sports world for so long and I’m not as super connected to my community per se. I have to do a better job of trying to connect people.”

Part of her trajectory to achieve that goal includes Indigenous Sports Professionals database, a network intended to connect individuals in Indigenous communities who are aspiring to build careers in the sports landscape with professionals already established in the field.

“I’m trying to do that through a database that I started, and not just photography-based but an all-encompassing (platform) for sports professionals,” she informed. “(It’s) for people that maybe work in production, or want to be a mascot, or dancers, graphic designers, those kind of jobs that exist in sports and trying to connect people into a larger network so when (teams) have Indigenous nights or celebrations and things like that, they have the ability to source videographers, TV hosts, graphics designers, artists to create logos, so that the celebrations are less about show and shows that people can work in this field and opportunities are available.

“Essentially, I’m trying to connect people who exist in the space already and connecting so they can have bigger opportunities or know who else is in other markets to connect with each other.”

In addition to the performances and special activations included at Indigenous-themed nights, Ward believes incorporating people in other aspects of the day’s events, such as game presentation, digital media, videography, etc., would be beneficial in enhancing the game day celebrations and in furthering the relationships organizations continue to build with their surrounding Indigenous communities.

“I think knowing that there are people that want to work in that space but don’t have the opportunity, maybe on those nights bringing in people to see that these opportunities are possible for them, and these are jobs for them,” said Ward.

“Giving inspiration where it’s like ‘This could be my job’ or ‘This could be my career path’ for someone who has always loved sports but knows they’re not going to make it as an athlete. Maybe they don’t even want to be an athlete, but their passion is videography, TV hosting, or sideline reporting. Helping to incorporate people in on that so others in the community can see themselves represented in different roles.

“I think culturally, sport in general just needs a little more inclusivity. Outside of players and coaches, and more within organizations there needs to be a little more diversity. Especially in Canada, our own people, there are plenty of Indigenous people who want to and dream of working in sports but don’t realize they can make that dream a reality. There are pathways to get there, and they may not know what they are, but seeing that their own people are in it, it’s an easier way to picture themselves there.”

Candice Ward

In addition to wearing their Indigenized logos created by Jacob Alexis, Richard Running Rabbit and Dr. Tyler White on their helmets, the Stampeders Indigenous celebrations included the national anthem sung by Dilayna Blackhorse in the traditional Blackfoot language, a halftime demonstration of the traditional Indigenous game Two Ball performed by local Indigenous youth, with Tsuu T’ina Nation member Hal Eagletail serving as PA announcer to walk fans through the rules and objectives of the game.

Activities also included a relay horse that accompanied Quick 6 throughout the evening, and the game available in Blackfoot with the broadcast carried on radio station CJWE (88.1 FM) with Butch Wolfleg and Jacob Leblanc calling the action.

Ahead of the special evening, the team was honoured to host members of the 7 Nations for an Indigenous prayer at the conclusion of the team’s walkthrough. Members in attendance included CSEC Indigenous Ambassador Brent Dodginhorse, Tsuu T’ina Nation Spiritual Leader Louie Heavenfire, Siksika Spiritual Leader Kent Ayoungman, Mini Thni Leader Watson Kaquitts, and Kainai Spiritual Leader Patrick Blackplume.

In August, general manager and head coach Dave Dickenson, receiver Marken Michel, defensive back Tre Roberson, and team president Jay McNeil along with other members of the organization made a visit to Dodginghorse Ranch to learn about the meaning behind the spirit of the horse in Treaty 7 territories.

“I think it’s great honouring the communities where you play,” said Ward. “It’s super important and I think leagues are starting to do a better job. Not the best job, but a better job year to year which is encouraging to see.

“There could be more done where you’re taking some things into the community maybe a little more directly. Not necessarily hosting games where there is no infrastructure, obviously, but cross-cultural sharing and learning between people and leagues. Involving more cultural mentors into your leagues and those sorts of things.

“The mentorship should go both ways; the sharing should go both ways. So, if you’ve got coaches or players mentoring people in Indigenous communities, it should go the other way too, so they are mentoring the coaches and players in cultural practices. It’s not a one-way street, it should be a shared mentorship, and a little more involvement in the communities that you’re playing in or near and really understanding the culture around you.”

Candice Ward

In Week 17, all CFL clubs proudly donned their Indigenous-designed logos to commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Of course, the Stampeders were on a bye week, hence wearing theirs instead for their Indigenous Celebration game against the Alouettes earlier in September.

The nine team logos were created by local Indigenous artists to honour the game’s close ties with Indigenous communities across the country, and to underscore the league’s commitment to recognizing the past, while focusing on a path forward centred on awareness, education and action.

The Stamps logo was designed to emulate Contemporary Plains Style Traditional Art. It features the Stampeders’ iconic white horse adorned with paint styles that would be used on special occasions, including when going into battle. The feathers in the mane represent valor or coups. The face is adorned with paint around the eye to represent vision, while the stripes indicate acts of valor. The handprint on the chest represents a fierce horse, and the lightning bolts bring to mind speed and agility. The spotted hind quarter represents creation, stories and teachings.

The team logos were featured on players’ helmets, in-stadium programming, and on the broadcasts on CTV, TSN, RDS, CFL+ and CBS Sports Network. A portion of proceeds from all associated merchandise sold will be donated to support local Indigenous groups, organizations or programming, with Calgary’s specifically supporting local youth programming in each of the Treaty 7 First Nation Communities.

After consulting with local Indigenous communities to plan Orange Shirt Day initiatives, league-wide all dressed players wore orange and white pre-game jerseys prior to games. Some teams such as the Stampeders raffled or auctioned the jerseys with portions of the proceeds going towards supporting local Indigenous communities and initiatives, while others were donated to community members and organizations.

Candice Ward

As National Day for Truth and Reconciliation approaches, Ward reminds that the day is dedicated to a time of reflection.

“I think it’s important being mindful of Indigenous people on that day and being sensitive to the cultural traumas.

“It’s meant to be a day for reflection and growth and set you for the year to a path towards being better people, being better allies, being better co-workers, and organizations.”