Simon Fraser University’s decision to discontinue their football program has been met with immediate pushback from the sport’s community from both professional and amateur levels.
On Monday’s edition of the SportsCage, during his weekly appearance, Saskatchewan Roughriders Head Coach Craig Dickenson was the latest to voice disappointment in the closure of the football program.
“That’s a shame. ”
Dickenson added “Any time a school cancels football that’s always a concern.”
In 2022, the Red Leafs competed as a football-only program in the Lone Star Conference, a group of teams mostly of Texas programs. The conference elected to not to renew the relationship with Simon Fraser University after the end of last season.
Dickenson noted there has been several players and coaches in the CFL spent time at Simon Fraser University before ascending to the professional ranks.
The Riders head coach pointed out some of the possible ramifications with no football at Simon Fraser University.
“I’m sure in the short term it might save them some money but I think in the long term it affects enrollments, I think it affects morale of the school, you know you need a football team I think if you’re going to university. ”
This past weekend, CFL Commissioner Randy Ambrosie was the latest to voice concern about the closure of the Simon University football program and pushed for a resolution.
Early Start
There is plenty of excitement in the prairies this week, as temperatures are forecasted to reach double digits. Hopefully erasing the memories of another frigid winter in Saskatchewan.
In about a month’s time, the Roughriders will begin training camp in Saskatoon.
Even with a push to end the season a little bit earlier in November, Dickenson believes the season can’t begin training camp any time sooner than the middle of May for a variety of reasons.
“I think if you’re going any earlier than you know, May 9 or May 10, you’re going to catch some really bad weather. ”
Along with the weather, the Riders head coach says an earlier start to the season could cut into potential players ability to graduate from school before the football year begins.
Dickenson said if the CFL would ever expand to a 10th team, he would rather see the elimination of a third bye week and limit teams to a pair of bye weeks during the regular season.
Before training camp, the Roughriders will take part in the CFL Draft on May 2. Saskatchewan currently holds the third overall selection.
