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Manitoba Bisons react to new CFL opportunities

Rudi Pawlychyn/ Global News

WINNIPEG — It’s a dream come true for every player, even if you’re drafted by a rival team.

“I’ve honestly never cheered for these guys but… it’s my new family so I can’t wait to get out there and experience it,” said Nic Demski who was selected sixth overall by the Saskatchewan Roughriders in the 2015 CFL draft.

The fourth year slotback/ kick returner for the Manitoba Bisons said he didn’t even hear his name called because he was on the phone at the time.

“Coach Bobby Dyce actually phoned me, kind of congratulated me about 30 seconds before they called my name,” he said. “I couldn’t even hear my name called on the TV because my parents and my family were yelling so loud… it’s definitely an experience I’ll never forget.”

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Demski also said the Roughriders are expecting him to come in and compete for a spot, “either if that’s on offense or returning the ball.”

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This is the second straight year at least one Bison player was picked in the first round of the draft.

Kienan LaFrance was selected in the sixth round 45th overall by the Ottawa Redblacks.

The Redblacks entered the Canadian Football League last season and the Bison running back/ kick returner is looking forward to the opportunity to crack the roster.

“Some people might not really be too fond of going to a team that didn’t have a great season last year,” said LeFrance. “For me to go in and kind of accept that role and just kind of be the same leader I’ve always been here.”

While Bison quarterback Jordan Yantz was undrafted, he received another invitation to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers training camp and said the chance gives him motivation.

“I’m used to the field, I’m used to the size of the football… I can stretch the ball down the field so I’m excited to finally get the chance to showcase,” said Yantz.

CFL rookies report for medicals and practice on May 27.

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