The University of Saskatchewan Huskies secured a narrow 25-24 victory over the Regina Rams in the Hardy Cup, clinching the Canada West football championship and seeking redemption for last year’s 19-14 loss. This 88th edition of the Hardy Cup marked a rare all-Saskatchewan championship showdown, the second in over 20 years, and the first consecutive provincial final between these two teams. The Regina Rams had claimed their first all-Saskatchewan Hardy Cup in more than two decades during the previous season.
In a remarkable fourth-quarter turnaround, the Huskies, trailing 24-9, staged a remarkable comeback by scoring 16 unanswered points to secure the title. Kicker Lucas Scott sealed the victory with a crucial field goal, emphasizing its significance for the team’s season. Scott expressed his confidence in making the decisive kick, stating that it fulfilled a lifelong dream.
Veteran player Ryker Frank described the team’s resilience in the second half as pivotal to their success, emphasizing the importance of belief and execution in challenging situations. Coach Scott Flory commended the team’s composure in the final minutes, acknowledging the hurdles they overcame during the match.
The Huskies are now one win away from reaching the Vanier Cup, set to be held in Regina for the first time later this month, marking only the third time the game will take place in Western Canada. Next on their agenda is the Mitchell Bowl, where they will face Queen’s University in Saskatchewan next week. Frank highlighted the team’s strong work ethic and cohesive culture as essential elements in preparing for significant matchups like the Mitchell Bowl.
While the Huskies had previously clinched the Hardy Cup in 2021 and 2022 but fell short in the Vanier Cup both years, they entered this postseason with an impressive 7-1 regular-season record, securing the top spot in the Canada West conference. On the other hand, the Rams advanced to the final after a thrilling 32-29 double-overtime victory against the Manitoba Bisons in the semi-final.
The upcoming Mitchell Bowl is scheduled for November 15 at 2:15 p.m. CST, setting the stage for an intense showdown between the Huskies and Queen’s University.