The Regina Thunder have kicked off the CJFL season with a 2-0 record on the road, earning wins against the Edmonton Huskies and Calgary Colts. A former Peacock Collegiate Tornado has played a key role in those victories.
Linebacker Devin Baumann has made a strong impact for the Thunder, recording 11 total tackles, two tackles for loss, and a blocked punt that he returned for a touchdown last weekend against the Colts. In previous seasons, Baumann was known primarily as a special teams standout. This year, however, he’s stepped into a full-time starting role on defense.
“Over the last couple of years, I’ve had great mentors in Stephen Smith, Mitchell Tanchak, and Matthew Schill,” said Baumann. “I’ve also been putting in a lot of work during the offseason and getting mentally prepared to take on that starting role.”
Up next for Baumann and the Thunder is their home opener at Leibel Field in Regina, where they’ll face the Huskies once again. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. this Sunday, and the Moose Jaw native is encouraging the community to make the drive down Highway 1 to show their support.
“The Huskies are a tough team. We’ve already played them, so we’ll know a bit more about them than we did the first time, when we didn’t have any film. It should be a great game, and hopefully a lot of people come out.”
Last season, the Regina Thunder were crowned PFC Champions after defeating the Saskatoon Hilltops 24-19 in the final. They went on to host the Okanagan Sun in the national semi-final, where they ultimately fell 28-14. Standing at 6'5" and weighing 240 lbs, Baumann is determined to help his team win a national title this season.
A video of Baumann's blocked kick for a touchdown last weekend in Calgary can be viewed below. (video via CJFL TV)