After wrapping up practice on Thursday, Kent Maugeri, the special teams coordinator for the Saskatchewan Roughriders, was actively engaged on the field. Maugeri is responsible for managing the kicking and return game, which involves a significant portion of the team’s roster.
Reflecting on his coaching role, Maugeri emphasized his focus on being a dedicated teacher and striving for excellence. He expressed that he aims to equip the players with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel on the field, while also maintaining high standards for their performance.
Throughout the game, Maugeri keeps in close contact with head coach Corey Mace to make crucial decisions. Mace highlighted the team’s commitment to special teams play, recognizing the efforts of both core special team players and other team members who contribute to special teams.
Having joined the Roughriders in 2016, Maugeri is the longest-tenured member of the coaching staff. Originally hired as an offensive assistant by Chris Jones from Lindenwood University, Maugeri was later promoted by former coach Craig Dickenson to lead the special teams in 2022.
Despite working under three different head coaches in the last ten seasons, Maugeri has consistently delivered, earning praise from his current boss, Corey Mace. Mace commended Maugeri’s coaching style, describing him as a dedicated and humorous individual whose coaching philosophy is reflected in the special teams’ performance.
When asked about the uniqueness of his unit compared to the offense and defense, Maugeri emphasized the team’s identity as “junkyard dogs,” known for their relentless effort and physicality on the field. He mentioned that the special teams players embody high-velocity contact and are committed to running and hitting hard during games.
After victories, Maugeri honors the standout special teams performer in the locker room by presenting them with a chain, reminiscent of the iconic wrestler Junkyard Dog from the 1980s. Looking ahead to Sunday night’s game, Maugeri hopes to award the chain to a successful special teams player as the Riders compete in the Grey Cup.
With the Grey Cup approaching, the Saskatchewan Roughriders are gearing up to face the Montreal Alouettes for the championship title in what promises to be an exciting showdown.