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November 25, 2016

Flashback Friday

Once the 104th Grey Cup game was awarded to Toronto in October 2015, Quinn Smith knew he’d have the opportunity to play for a championship in his hometown.

But what he didn’t know then was that in preparation for the biggest game of his life, he’d be practicing just minutes away from his childhood home.

“I’m back in the old ‘hood,” remarked a jubilant Smith on Friday following the Stampeders’ third and final practice of the week at Monarch Park’s indoor facility. “(I was raised) about 10 minutes from here. It’s nice because my family can come down and see the practices. They came on Tuesday and watched it and my little nephew and nieces came. It’s nice to be back in the old stomping grounds for sure.”

A high school standout at nearby Birchmont Park Collegiate, Smith realizes just how fortunate he is to be in this position.

“It’s an extremely special situation,” the grateful 25-year-old explained. “I grew up a big-time Argo fan – obviously not a fan of them anymore – and I grew up going to a lot of CFL games at the SkyDome or Rogers Centre. My dad and my uncle grew up season-ticket holders down at the old Exhibition Stadium, so there’s lots of football history in our family in terms of being CFL fans. Being able to have the chance to play in the Grey Cup in Toronto is an honour.”

The six-foot-two, 303-lb. Smith recently took time out of busy schedule to visit some familiar faces when he unwound with loved ones for some much-needed rest and relaxation.

“Last night I got to go home and get some home cooking, which was nice,” offered the ex-Concordia Stinger. “I just put my feet up on the couch and hung out with my brothers. It definitely takes some stress off for sure.”

With no shortage of support in the BMO Field stands come Sunday, Calgary’s top draft pick in 2014 plans on soaking in every last moment of his game-day experience.

“I’ve got over 40 people coming to the game,” Smith said with a smile. “I’ve got my mom, my dad, brothers, girlfriend, nieces, nephews, friends, aunts and uncles. I know it’s special for them too to come see me, so I won’t be nervous at all.”

Asked about his expected emotions when running out of the tunnel during pre-game introductions, the local product knows it will be an experience unlike any other.

“I won’t be able to explain (it),” indicated the customary defensive lineman who will once again convert to the offensive side of the ball when the league title goes up for grabs this weekend. “It’s probably going to be a feeling that I’ve never felt before in my life. Happiness and excitement and anger and love all magnified and multiplied by 100.”