Arjei Franklin
CFL.ca
At the beginning of this season, we were seen as one of the favorites to win the Grey Cup. The truth is, however, actions speak louder than words because our season has come to a disappointing end.
The end of a season is kind of surreal. For six months a group of about 60 teammates spend almost all their time together and in the blink of an eye, we all say our goodbyes and go our separate ways. This year was especially difficult because in all honesty none of us even thought about losing. As far as we were concerned we were going to Grey cup, so to end the season prematurely was truly a shock.
One of the hardest things about ending the season is that you know that not everyone will be back the next season. Quite possibly not even yourself. So in some situations you may never see your teammate again. The business side of football can be pretty ugly at times.
The season did have its bright spots though. We had three 1,000-yard receivers and in my opinion should have had at least a couple all-star receivers, as well. I was finally able to score my first CFL touchdown, I saw Milt break the all-time receiving yards record, Doug Brown is the East nominee for outstanding defensive player and we actually did have a number of deserving all-stars this year.
As great as these accomplishments are, I will value the friendships more. I will remember all the jokes we cracked on each other during our meetings. I will remember all the laughs and arguments we had throughout the year. I will remember how hard we worked together as a team to reach one united goal. It is these memories which I will hold on to for a very long time.
The crazy thing about this sport is that out of eight teams, seven will end the season with disappointment. All we can do is work for the chance to end the season on a positive note. Sometimes even the best players never experience this. The truth is, football is just a game. Even though we put our bodies on the line to win every game, when it is all said and done, there are things that are much more important in life. Like family, friendship, and faith.
So this is my silver lining: I’ll be on my way back home to Ontario soon. I look forward to seeing my wife again and the rest of my family. I actually can’t wait to relax in my own home for while and catch up with a lot of friends. Soon I’ll get back in the gym and start all over again, just for the chance to win a Grey Cup.
Sometimes I think it is crazy what we put ourselves through, just for a game, but it is a great game. I thank God for giving me the opportunity to play it.
Arjei Franklin #86
Arjei Franklin is a third-year receiver with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. He was the Bombers’ top pick in the 2006 Canadian Draft.
