Ajou blends swagger, accountability and leadership with Riders

Ajou Ajou‘s football story is still being written. Still, the Saskatchewan Roughriders receiver has already carved out a reputation for energy, swagger and accountability.

At 23, Ajou is still in the early stages of his Canadian Football League career. Yet, his presence in the Riders’ locker room is undeniable. He says his approach is simple: bring energy and hold everyone, including himself, to a high standard.

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“We’re only as strong as our weakest link, so if someone on the field isn’t doing what they’re supposed to be doing, I would want them to tell me, so I’m going to be a good teammate, I’m going to be a good brother and let them know as well,” Ajou said in a recent interview on The Green Zone.

Listen to the full interview here:

That philosophy fits neatly with the culture that head coach Corey Mace has been building in Regina. Mace has emphasized accountability as shared responsibility, not just something handed down by coaches. Ajou said that mindset has shaped the team and his role in it.

“He holds me to a standard, not only just myself, but the entire team, but for me, it’s a little different, because he’s known me since I was a in 12th grade,” Ajou said. “He’s known me for a pretty long time now, and he wants the best from me, and I owe that to him.”

Ajou also bring valuable lessons from his time in the National Football League. Earlier this year, he attended training camp with the Indianapolis Colts. Though the stint was short, he said it gave him a new perspective on what it means to be a professional.

“Just changing my approach every day, how I attack the day, how I attack the game, how I attack the playbook, how I watch film, how I just become a better player overall,” Ajou said.

While Ajou stops short of calling himself a team leader, he believes leadership comes in more ways than one. For him, it’s about showing teammates that he cares through the way he plays.

“I wouldn’t say I’m a leader just yet, but I say I’m a leader in what I do and how I show my brothers that I love, how I block for them and go out there and make plays for them,” Ajou explained.

That leadership also shows up in the form of swagger. Ajou has become known for his celebrations and high-energy style, something he says is part of what makes football fun.

“There are so many guys out here making plays on this squad. Like you see it. When Scoop (Malik Carney) gets a sack, he is on the scooter, hopping on one leg.” Ajou said. “So, if I can add mine in there, hey, let’s do it.”

With his blend of confidence, accountability and personality, Ajou is shaping more than his own career. He is helping define the culture of Rider Nation seasons to come.

The Riders are back in action Sept. 27 against the Elks.