Stinson Says #1
August 17, 2008 - For some guys on our team it's their fifth and final year. Guys like Cory Kennedy, Jeff Laforge, Cam Deans, Andrew Brankley and David Scott-McDowell have given everything they could and have yet to be rewarded for their efforts and commitment to our program.
They have played on the old Varsity Stadium field where the ground was hard enough to rollerblade on. They went three seasons living in a trailer that was damp, filled with mold and had electricity that didn't work. They practiced on back campus in the pitch black because there was no stadium and no lights due to Varsity Centre construction, and rode the bus to practices and games.
Then, this off-season, they had to face the insecurity of losing their head coach, one which they'd had from the start of their university careers.
Losing coach Howlett was tough for everyone involved but then the school hired an interim staff of Greg DeLaval as head coach, and Bob Howes as director of football - I think it's a great fit. The fifth-year guys are comfortable with these two coaches and are willing to go to the wall for them. Greg and Bob know how to win and can make an immediate impact on our program.
The team has been more excited than ever. It may be the nerves of playing for a new coach or the confidence knowing that we had the best off-season training in years. Regardless, the guys are excited and can't wait to get back out there.
This off-season has also brought a strong contingent of alumni back to the program. Our golf tournament was the best golf tournament in history with 160 participants, including President Naylor who gave his full endorsement to help the football program.
All this excitement and preparation has given us a lot of hope and support. We are looking forward to having a great camp. The first steps toward a winning season have already begun.
Until next time - Go Blues!
