Stefen Banks certainly hopes the old saying ‘good things come to those that wait’ will ring true for him.
He has been patiently biding his time for this moment – the chance to compete for a spot on the Stampeders defensive line – ever since he signed with the club in early 2020.
The global pandemic put that journey on hold but now with training camp in full swing, he’s getting the chance to make his mark.
“It’s been a lot of fun so far,” Banks said Tuesday. “There’s a lot of talent in the locker-room and that’s great to have because it pushes you to compete harder; everyone is trying to show what they can do and make an impression. I really love the competition, it makes everyone better – especially going up against high-level guys.
“There’s a lot to learn and also getting adjusted to the new game with its fast-paced style. The coaches have been great in helping with that adjustment and vets like Mike Rose and Derek Wiggan, just to name a few, have helped a lot with their extensive knowledge. I try to watch them in drills as much as I can to see their approach and take little things they do to add to my game.
“It’s all about getting my footing under me and then going out and show what I got.”
Before arriving in Calgary, the Ohio product kept busy signing with The Spring League and playing with the Linemen team that won the league’s Mega Bowl championship.
The taste of that championship glory just made him hungrier for more.
“It was an amazing experience, I never won a championship before so that was my first,” Banks said. “I met a lot of great people and learned a lot of things to help make me a better player. It was a fun ride and a look forward to taking what I learned there and bringing it here.
“I got that itch now to win a championship again and that’s the main goal for all of us here. That’s something I’m hoping to help accomplish: win some games and then in the end, cap it off with a championship.”
Photo by Candice Ward
Prior to going pro, Banks spent four seasons (2015-18) at Savannah State and earned all-Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference honours in 2016, 2017 and 2018, and all-American honours in 2017. In 41 career games for the Tigers, he recorded 226 tackles – including 51.5 tackles for loss – 24.5 sacks, eight forced fumbles, six pass breakups and two interceptions.
Impressive numbers he hopes to build on at this level.
“Ever since I went pro, I’ve been focused on getting heavier and adding more muscle to add more strength to my game,” Banks said. “I had to find that balancing act to keep my explosiveness and get faster in general while adding muscle because that’s what helps give you an edge in getting past blocks. Speed goes a long way.
“There’s always ways to get better every day and for me I always find ways to further grow into a better player.”
So with the first four days of camp in the books, what’s been the biggest thing he’s noticed?
“Well that elevation is no joke,” he laughed. “My mouth has been so dry.
“But no, it’s been amazing to be here. I’m loving the weather we’ve been having so far. I haven’t been able to really explore the city yet but I’m definitely looking forward to doing that sometime.
“I’m just happy to be here and have this opportunity that I’m going to give my all to impress.”