Jamie Nye: CFL draft a banner day for U of S program

When Scott Flory took over the University of Saskatchewan Huskies football team, it wasn’t a smooth transition.

There were plenty of people in Brian Towriss’ corner as it was clear Flory’s former coach and boss wasn’t ready to head off into the sunset.

But since that time, Flory has continued the storied tradition of the Huskies and the foundation set by Towriss — and Thursday’s CFL draft was further proof to go along with the Hardy Cup win in 2018.

Five Huskies were drafted, with the Saskatchewan Roughriders taking Melfort’s own — and Huskies offensive lineman — Mattland Riley seventh overall. It was the highest pick for a Huskies player since Ben Heenan went first overall to the Riders in 2012.

Four other Huskies came off the draft board as well, in what was a banner night for the Huskies. It must have been a great night for Flory to witness to prove he’s not only recruiting talent but helping groom young athletes to make the jump to the pros.

Thursday was supposed to be the Huskies’ annual fundraiser, the Dogs Breakfast. It was also to be the start of spring camp, which I’m sure would begin a path to the Canadian Football League for more of Flory’s young recruits.