By Greg Urbanoski
The University of Regina Rams took another step towards the 2008 Canada West Season by holding testing for 50 potential Rams of the future.
On Sunday the Rams held testing at their Clubhouse on the University of Regina Campus. Approximately 50 players came in, were divided among offense and defense and then tested in various areas such as flexibility, vertical jump, bench press, 40 times and various skill drills.
Among the players was MJ Sainfort, 18, from Miami Florida who played for the Luther Lions as a running back and wide receiver and is looking forward to trying out for the Rams.
“I came back to Regina from Miami Florida because I met a lot of good friends and it’s hard to say goodbye and I definitely came back to play football,” said
Sainfort.
“It was a great experience for me in my life and I definitely want to continue playing the sport. I played at Luther for three years as a running back, wide receiver, kick returner, punt returner and had three great years playing football. I wish I had a better chance to prove myself but that’s why I’m back trying out for the Rams.”
Sainfort said he enjoyed the physical testing but felt he could have done a lot better. He wants to see what happens in Spring Camp and has a definite plan on improving his physical performance in the next few months.
“I’m definitely going to increase my speed, agility, bench press, leg strength because it is going to be a strong competition,” said
Sainfort.
“This is a beautiful facility and I’m definitely looking forward to playing here.”
Another player trying out was Quinton Clarke, 17, of Winston Knoll Collegiate in Regina. Clarke is a slotback and took part in the drills, clearly happy to be working out for the Rams.
“I did alright,” said Clarke. “I definitely didn’t do well in the 40 as I thought I would but some days it doesn’t go well. I like it here though.
“Today shows I should be a lot faster, I need to work out and increase my bench press. But I think I’m doing pretty good considering I’m new to this and I want to play football for three years.
“It’s a lot more professional here compared to high school. They take a lot more care and it is more detailed workouts. With the bench press at high school you just do whatever you want on your own. Here they have someone counting for you. With the 40 they have lasers instead of stop watches. I like the program here, I want to play here and I’m excited to put on the equipment and play.”
The Rams will have another day of testing on January 17 for players who were unable to attend the first testing period. The Rams coaching staff are looking at bringing to Spring Camp approximately 15-20 players from the testing sessions.
