By Richard Obrand,
MontrealAlouettes.com
Looking ahead to 2010
With just three months remaining until CFL teams open their respective training camps country-wide, MontrealAlouettes.com takes a look at the Als’ 2010 schedule.
The Als kick off their 2010 season with a three-game western road-swing, with their first stop coming in Regina.
Keeping the tradition alive, the CFL opens its doors to fans on July 1 with a Grey Cup rematch featuring the ’09 league runner-ups Saskatchewan Roughriders playing host to the defending champions Alouettes in a matchup that promises to be one for the DVD collection.
The team then shifts its attention towards Edmonton a week later, and then concludes its early season road-trip with a meeting against the Lions in BC.
On July 22, a revamped Percival Molson Stadium welcomes Montrealers for the first time since last Nov.1, as the Als play their first home game of the season against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
The game kicks off a stretch of three-consecutive home games for the Alouettes, their longest home-stand of the season.
Take a look at the schedule for yourself and tell us which game you’re anticipating most!
Tiger-Cats lock up prospect
The Hamilton Tiger-Cats have locked up one of its most valuable assets through the 2012 season, as Thursday, Canadian safety Dylan Barker signed a contract extension.
In 2009, the first overall selection in the 2008 CFL draft set a franchise record and tied the league record for most special teams tackles with 37.
“Last season, Dylan showed that he is capable of making solid contributions on both defence and special teams. He’s one of our most promising young Canadian players so we’re excited that he has committed to this organization,” Hamilton coach Marcel Bellefeuille said in a statement.
Barker, who also added six tackles, one interception, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery in 2009, is glad to be staying in Hamilton.
“This was an easy decision for me,” said Barker. “I feel like I have an opportunity to be a part of a winning program here in Hamilton and I enjoy being a part of this city. I’m excited to continue my career as a Tiger-Cat.”
He is 23.
Robertson moves on
The BC Lions announced the signing of import tailback Jamal Robertson to a contract on Monday.
”Jamal is a proven running back in our league and I believe he helps fill a significant need we have at that position,” said Lions GM and head coach Wally Buono on TSN.ca.
As per club policy, financial terms of the contract were not disclosed.
In two seasons with Argonauts, Robertson tallied 1,676 yards on 326 carries scoring 15 touchdowns.
”I’m very excited to be joining the Lions,” said Robertson. ”They were tough to play against the past two seasons and I’m glad to be going out west to be part of a team that’s making some big offseason moves.”
