I’ve been waiting for this game in my hometown of Montreal ever since it was announced I was the starter at mid-season because until then, I wasn’t sure if I was going to on the team or not.

I had a chance to play there in the pre-season when I was at Winnipeg’s camp but I didn’t dress for the game in Montreal, so that was a little upsetting.

When I first signed with Calgary, I was going game by game and just doing what I’ve been doing for the past 10 years — kicking. I was just trying to prove to the team and prove to the CFL that I could kick at this level.

At the start of the week, I had 18 tickets and I knew I was going to have to buy a couple more. People keep calling and calling, but I can’t get everybody in. But I’m trying my hardest!

I’m very excited to have my family and my girlfriend there to watch me. My parents have been supportive of me since Day 1. From the moment I told them I was going to start playing football, they were with me and encouraged me to do what I wanted.

They love it. They were here in Calgary for the Montreal game back in August and they went to the Toronto game earlier this month. They’re extremely excited for this one and they can’t wait for Sunday.

Even so, I know I have to be focused on my job. I focus on every game as if it’s the most important game of the year and Sunday will be no different. I’m going to give it my best and I want to do everything I can to help the team win.

Rene Paredes, #30
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