This weekend offers a thrilling lineup for football fans in Saskatchewan. The Saskatoon Hilltops are competing for a national championship, while the University of Saskatchewan Huskies and the University of Regina Rams clash in the Hardy Cup. Additionally, the Saskatchewan Roughriders face off against the B.C. Lions in the CFL Western Division final, with a Grey Cup spot at stake.
The Huskies (7-1) and Rams (6-2) will kick off the action on Saturday at 2 p.m. in Saskatoon at Griffiths Stadium, setting the stage for a highly anticipated rematch from last year’s Hardy Cup. Both teams, according to Huskies coach Scott Flory, have earned their place in the final by showcasing top-tier performance throughout the regular season.
Rams head coach Mark McConkey anticipates a closely contested game that may come down to the wire, emphasizing the need for fundamental proficiency across all game aspects. The absence of key players, such as Huskie quarterback Anton Amunrud and Rams star running back Marshall Erichsen, adds an element of uncertainty to the matchup.
Following the Hardy Cup, the winner will host the Ontario champion in the Mitchell Bowl, with a shot at the prestigious Vanier Cup, which Regina is set to host. On the other hand, the Saskatchewan Roughriders, having secured first place earlier, will face the B.C. Lions at Mosaic Stadium. The Riders have utilized the past weeks to rest and recuperate key players, including last year’s defensive player of the year, Roland Milligan Jr.
Hilltops fans can look forward to Sunday’s clash against the Okanagan Sun in the Canadian Junior Football League national championship. With a historic 23 national titles to their name, the Hilltops aim to continue their legacy of success. Head coach Tom Sargeant highlighted the team’s resilience throughout the season, underscoring the determination to deliver a standout performance in the final.
The action-packed weekend will culminate with the Hilltops hosting the Okanagan Sun on Sunday at SMF Field at 1 p.m.