University of Saskatchewan Huskies quarterback Jake Farrell is soaking up every moment at the Saskatchewan Roughriders rookie training camp, surrounded by Canadian Football League veterans. The experience, held at Griffiths Stadium in Saskatoon, has been described by Farrell as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
"It's unbelievable," Farrell told reporters. "I would describe it as an opportunity of a lifetime, just to be around Trevor (Harris), Jack (Coan), and Tommy (Stevens). Those guys are the vets in this league. I am learning so much. It's evident why this team is so successful. Top-down, the coach, staff and players."
Internship Program Provides Valuable Experience
Farrell was invited to the Roughriders training camp through the rookie quarterback internship program, which allows U Sports players to develop alongside active CFL roster members. He participated in the team's rookie camp and is also attending the main training camp.
Roughriders head coach Corey Mace, who led the team to a Grey Cup victory last season, emphasized the importance of the internship program. "The guys that we've had here, certainly Farrell here, you're hoping they're walking away and they're learning something as they go into their seasons. Looking at it and all the guys that end up attending these programs, they generally go back and they have really good seasons for their clubs. So that's the main thing, is to see what you can learn. And we're not shy to put them out there for a couple reps too."
Farrell's Journey to the CFL
Last season, Farrell led the Huskies to the Vanier Cup, where they fell 30-16 to the Montreal Carabins. He took over as starter after star quarterback Anton Amundrud was diagnosed with cancer, and posted a 6-1 record as a starter, including regular season games. This marked his debut in U Sports playoff action.
Amundrud, who participated in the camp last year, advised Farrell to stay attentive in meetings and practices. "As things go by fast," Farrell recalled. "The speed of the game is obviously turned up a whole notch. The reads that the quarterback has to go through is quite different from university. I'm not saying university is slow at all, but once you come here, you realize that to go from your first to fifth read, it's got to happen pretty quick."
Aspiring to Play in the CFL
Farrell hopes to one day play in the CFL permanently. "I always have confidence in myself, but just to be out here with guys that have proven it and done it, and them giving me tons of coaching points is huge for my confidence. Hopefully one day I'll be here permanently."
Mace noted that players must demonstrate their worth during camp, citing former Denver Broncos receiver Tyrie Cleveland as an example. "Holy smokes, the guy can run. He gets contested catches down the field. He's a jump ball guy and he can go get it."
