Neumann’s Notes: Dinos take in Canadian Rockies, CFL game – University of Calgary Athletics

Football
8/18/2024 1:24:00 PM

Jack Neumann

CALGARY – The University of Calgary Dinos had a different day on Thursday, August 15.

Rather than practice in Calgary the team had a short 90 minutes practice in the picturesque Canadian Rockies in the Canmore, AB., just outside Banff National Park. 



For some of the players this was first time they had the opportunity to view the majestic Canadian Rockies and were awe struck by the experience. Numerous players were in wonderment taking pictures of the magnificent scenery.

“Simply incredible,” stated receiver Isiah Woodley, a receiver from Boston, MA., via the Regina Prairie Thunder who sent pictures to his parents. 

Freshman offensive lineman John Francoeur of Burlington, ON., was equally impressed. “It was very impressive to see and practice there,” he stated. 

Thursday was a great team building day. It was a change of scenery and camaraderie was outstanding,” stated head coach Ryan Sheahan. “Southern Alberta and the Canadian Rockies is a great place in our country and we will explore options for team building.”



One of the interesting individuals at practice was former Dino linebacker Gordon Elser. Elser was selected 11th overall by the Toronto Argonauts in the 1981 Canadian Football League Draft. He had a four-year CFL career was a member of their 1983 Grey Cup team. Gord was a conference all-star on the 1980 Dinos team that lost a tough conference final to eventual Vanier Cup champion Alberta. ?

Following practice, the team had lunch and went for a swim in Quarry Lake before heading back to Calgary for the CFL game between the Stampeders and the Ottawa Red Blacks. 

“The CFL game was exciting and the players were treated to an excellent Thursday night football game,” Sheahan stated. “We were excited to see alums Jalen Philpot and Micah Teitz play. A big thank you to the Calgary Stampeders for allowing us to attend.”

-UC-