Linebacker Max Caron during a game on October 21, 2016 (Photo by David Moll)
After dealing with two big injuries and not being able to play football, tonight was incredible. It was a lot of fun to go in there and fly around and just do what I’ve been doing for my whole life. It’s an incredible feeling to be a part of this team and to have played a role in this season.
I didn’t get a whole lot of sleep over the last couple of days – especially last night – I was pretty jacked up. It’s definitely been a tough couple of years and it’s been a tough week just preparing for this mentally. Just to get out there, it all goes away. You just get to focus on playing football and having fun. There’s some good plays that I made and some bad but the most important thing I can do is not stress out and just focus on the next plays.
The first play, it was nice to get out there, strap on the pads and hit someone for the first time since the pre-season games. It was definitely a big moment for me. Also, getting to play out punt, punt return, kickoff and kickoff return, getting those plays out of the way gets you a feel for the timing and how things are at this level. Once I got those plays out of the way, I was able to settle into my comfort zone and just go out and play football.
My teammates have been incredible. When you have major injuries like I’ve had, I think a lot of guys on this team could tell you that you have your good days and some really bad, tough days but everyone has been really positive with me, believing that I’m a good player and that I can stay in this league. There are times where you don’t believe that yourself, especially when you don’t get to play for two years. But, getting out there with the team and getting a chance to play was incredible. I’m so happy to be a Calgary Stampeder and to be a part of this team.
Now I’m looking forward to going in the film room, looking at my plays, fixing my mistakes and getting better. It’s important to keep trying to grow as a player and come back, hopefully next game, and make those corrections and play better.
Photo by Canadian Press/Jeff McIntosh