This is technically the off-season for CFL players, but Fred Bennett is busier than ever.

For one thing, the Stampeders cornerback recently signed a new deal with the Red and White. And while there are no daily practices or weekly games, the reality of the modern-day athlete is that the business of working out and staying in shape is a year-round affair.

There’s also the consuming endeavour of fatherhood as Bennett tries to keep up with four-month-old Fred Jr.

And, oh, did we mention that Bennett is also going to school?

Indeed, Bennett is hitting the books to polish off the four credits he needs to complete his degree in hotel, restaurant and tourism management at the University of South Carolina.

“It’s something that’s very important to me,” said the Manning, S.C., native. “Even when I went to the NFL and started my pro career, I knew I was going to get back to working on my degree. And not just to have it, but to do something with it once my playing career is over.

“I love football and it’s been a big part of my life, but it’s also important to get an education and prepare for life after football.”

Until then, the former Houston Texan, San Diego Charger and Arizona Cardinal continues to excel on the football field. Bennett started all 18 regular-season games as well as the Western Final for the Stamps in 2013, recording 38 tackles, three interceptions, five pass knockdowns and three forced fumbles.

One of the forced fumbles came on what Calgary head coach and general manager John Hufnagel says may have been the “play of the year” as Bennett hustled to catch up to Montreal Alouettes kick-returner Noel Devine and punched the ball loose for a momentum-changing turnover.

>> Video: Bennett forced fumble

Bennett, who turned 30 on New Year’s Eve, is now heading into his third season with the Stamps. He had been eligible for free agency next month but he was very clear that staying in Calgary was a priority.

“It’s a great city and Stamps fans are great,” he said. “I also feel that we’re so close to winning a championship. I’ve played football for a long time now and I want that first ring.

“We had a great regular season last year, but we fell short in the playoffs and I’m not going to forget that Western Final loss against Saskatchewan. You can’t forget about that — you have to use it as motivation to come back the next year and do everything you can to make sure you get the job done. I truly feel that this year is our year.”

While the Stamps secondary has lost a couple of members — safety Eric Fraser was claimed in the expansion draft and Derrius Brooks has signed with New Orleans in the NFL — most of the unit that allowed the second-fewest points in the CFL in 2013 will return.

“It’s tough to see good guys leave,” said Bennett, “but I feel that with the depth that we have, the veteran leadership on defence and the job (defensive backs coach) Tony Missick does, we can find guys to fill those holes and get the job done.

“I can’t wait for the season to get going.”