By: Rita Mingo  
Calgary Herald

When the ageless Anthony Calvillo returns to McMahon Stadium on Saturday night, will it be for the final time? A betting man would probably say no, but if it were the last time they met on the battle field, Kevin Glenn will look back on it as a memorable occasion.

“Anybody that has a chance to watch that guy in person is really experiencing something,’’ said Glenn, who has had his share of skirmishes against the Montreal Alouette pivot, who turns 41 in August. “I’ve had a chance to play against him for 13 years and I’ve seen him do some great things. He’s overcome a whole lot of things, family issues; when he first started out, ups and down in Hamilton and getting to Montreal; just being the all-time passing leader in professional football history … just to say that I know that guy, that I’ve had a conversation with him.

“If we were to ever see each other walking down the street one day, I can say I know that guy. He’s my buddy. He may not feel the same way, but I can say that.’’

Calgary and Montreal meet for the second and final time in the 2013 regular season on Saturday, kick-off at 5 p.m.

“It’ll be a sad day,’’ chipped in running back Jon Cornish. “He’s sort of helped the CFL emerge from just another league to a respected sport both in America and Canada.

“I’ve wanted him to retire for a long time but that’s only because he’s so good.’’

Calvillo hurt his right thumb in practice this week, but told Montreal media on Thursday that the strength was good and that he was able to complete his throws.

Missing Jackson

Malik Jackson, who is out with a broken arm, is certain to be missed on the Stamps’ defence, but perhaps no one will feel his absence more than fellow linebacker Juwan Simpson.

“I don’t think people really understand the relationship, the bond that you grow out here,’’ Simpson began. “Me and Malik have been beside each other for the last five years, has been one of my good friends since Day 1. We just developed a bond, like a brotherhood.’’

Tempering that sense of loss will no doubt be the fact that Deron Mayo, a veteran presence, will assume Jackson’s spot.

“It’s unfortunate, I really hate it for him, but I feel a little more comfortable knowing Mayo’s coming in,’’ Simpson added. “He’s an experienced guy. He’s played in the West Final for me last year, very versatile guy. It’s going to work. At the end of the day we’re 12 guys on the same page to get the win.’’