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November 23, 2017

It’s a Snap Blog: the team chaplain

All year long, and especially here during Grey Cup week, athletic therapists, massage therapists and chiropractors all keep the players’ bodies in top working order.

But what about the inside of a player?

That’s were team chaplain Rodd Sawatzky comes in.

“I think of my role as more like a dad watching his kids, rather than a friend. Even though I’m friends with all of them, it’s so much more. A mentor and a dad and a guide.”

“It’s not a job to me, it’s a relationship and a privilege.”

The players have access to Rodd all season long but with the demands of Grey Cup week, some Stamps seek him out more.

“This week brings more pressure so when the extra pressure comes they need a safe place to go. And I am that safe place. For some guys, just having me here and seeing my face, knowing if they need something, I’m here.

“We’ve got a routine that happens every road trip. We have pre-game chapel on Sunday morning. We have a mid week bible study. I will meet with individual players, some guys I meet with almost every week. There are also a number of other opportunities for guys.”

Rodd has seen just about it all, walking with players through the lowest lows and the highest highs.

“Winning is always fun. The Grey Cups that we’ve won, it’s been awesome to be a part of that journey and to see that culminate. So I hope for that this week. Praying to that end.”