Winning has become commonplace among Regina’s high-profile football teams as the junior Regina Thunder, University of Regina Rams, and the CFL’s Saskatchewan Roughriders are all atop their league standings.
The progression begins at Junior, cultivated by the leadership qualities during their time on the Thunder.
“This is a player-led organization, first and foremost,” said Thunder captain Lorrin LeBlanc, a defensive back. “We have a group of guys that lay it on the line for each other day in and day out. We pride ourselves on developing character over talent, and with that, I think we have created some exceptional leaders.”
The Thunder has produced CFL All-Star Logan Ferland and other players like linebacker Stephen Smith and defensive lineman Tanner Schmekel.
In due time, U-Sport Standouts Conner Klassen and Riley Schick, and Rylan Sokul from the U of R Rams, may be joining them in the pro ranks, while players like Caleb Barajas and Kenten Effa are currently splitting time between the Roughriders practice roster and the Thunder.
LeBlanc adds, “Guys like Branden Janotta and Rylan Sokul have made the team more connected and united, made the team work closer and made the team stronger. These guys were a big part of my development. Rylan Sokul would make sure that the team was locked in and remind them what we were playing for. His leadership taught me the value of accountability.”
Another one of the achievements the Thunder have accomplished is the pipeline of offensive linemen to the U of R Rams. Former Thunder captain and current Rams O-Lineman Max McFadden says it’s no surprise that this trend is continuing.
“This trend has been happening for a long time, even before the Rams were affiliated with the University. Look at even like the CFL in the past, right, like you look at guys like Bob Poley and Roger Aldag. Those guys came from Junior football as well and went on to the pros,” McFadden said.
“ I think there’s something universal about the O-line. It’s always been that kind of blue-collar lunch pail mentality with hard work. So I think that the mentality gets built and translates at all levels of the game,” he added.
“I think my time with the Thunder created an environment to thrive in. I credit my time with the team for the player I am now; they definitely played a factor in my jump to USports. When you get here, it can be a little intimidating and humbling. I went from being a starter to being a rotational piece. My early time with the Thunder has prepared me for that in a way that most high school guys don’t have that experience that I have.”
McFadden ended by saying, “I mean, when you look at who we have in Schick, Klassen, Makowsky, and Hubick, I think that’s a testament to how well Junior develops key pieces in an already elite environment.
