Sask. players look to make an impression at Roughriders rookie camp
'It's kind of surreal,' says receiver Daniel Wiebe, chosen in 8th round by Riders in last week's CFL draft
Some local talent had their first taste of pro football Wednesday morning as the Saskatchewan Roughriders opened rookie camp.
Receiver Daniel Wiebe, who was chosen in the eighth round by the Riders in last week's CFL draft, grew up watching the Green and White.
The University of Saskatchewan Huskies product said putting on a Riders uniform for the first time brought a jumble of emotions.
"It's kind of surreal," he said. "Just seeing Riders jerseys beside me, I'm like, 'Holy, I'm really here doing it right now.'"
Wiebe's Huskies teammate, Seth Hundeby, is also in camp.
Hundeby has committed to return to the U of S for one more year, but is trying to soak in as much knowledge as possible during his time at training camp.
"Be a sponge, you know — anything anyone says … take it in and then kind of incorporate it in wherever you feel like you can," said Hundeby, who the Riders chose in the fourth round of the draft.
"It's really cool to, like, be a part of the team because eventually, if the opportunity is there, I'd love to play and be a Rider."
Riders head coach Corey Mace said the two made an impression on the first day.
"Seth's one of the most vocal guys already, and he's only had a day and half in the playbook," Mace said. "He's out there commanding. So that's awesome to see."
As for Wiebe, Mace said he's turned heads with his speed.
"[It's] showed up even in the special teams drills," Mace said. "He goes to return a kick and guys are trying to make sure he doesn't get outside, and quickly find out how quick and how fast he is."
Wiebe, who led the Huskies in catches last season, said he's willing to play anywhere on the field.
"My mindset is just wherever they need me, I'll play," he said.
"I don't care where that is. I'll do my best in whatever position they put me out in."
Two players from the Canadian Junior Football League's Saskatoon Hilltops have also been invited to camp — defensive lineman Johnathon Stevens and defensive back Dalton Urban.
Stevens grew up in Eatonia, Sask., and is happy to get an opportunity to suit up at training camp.
"I've watched the Riders since I was a little kid, and they made me want to play football," Stevens said. "The fact that I get a chance to go to the tryout and see the competition is truly a blessing and a childhood dream."
Huskies QB Anton Amundrud will be in camp on Sunday as part of the CFL quarterback internship program.
Rookie camp runs Thursday and Friday, from 9 a.m. until noon, at Griffiths Stadium.
The Riders' main camp begins on Sunday.
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