The salute to the military at Monday’s tilt at McMahon Stadium is extremely meaningful to Stamps linebacker Jacob Roberts.
Since 2015, the annual Labour Day Classic has honoured the military as part of Canadian Armed Forces Appreciation Day.
The marquee matchup includes the highly anticipated pregame flyover by two CF-18 Hornets, a ceremonial flag party and a performance of the national anthem by the Canadian Air Force.
“My grandfather and my uncle were in the military, as well as my best friend’s dad who was one of the highest ranked for 22 years,” said Roberts. “I have a lot of respect for those guys who go out there and fight for our country and our allies, no matter where they’re stationed.
“They go through a lot mentally and physically, they put their lives on the line for us, and it means a lot.”
While it could be easy to get wrapped up in the cinematics that come with the intense battle of two bitter inter-provincial rivals, no matter where they’re placed in the standings, Labour Day’s homage to the Armed Forces serves as a special reminder for all.
“It’s bigger than me,” said Roberts. “It’s about the bigger picture and that’s in everything I do in life. It’s definitely bigger than football.”
The North Carolina native is inspired by his best friend Trenton Simpson, a linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens, who founded The Trenton Simpson Foundation to provide support and resources to families in the U.S. with ties to active and retired military service members.
“Having his father be in the military for so long, he wanted to give back to families and kids who’ve had parents or family members in the military and may not be in their lives because they’ve put their own life on the line for everybody else, Roberts explained.
“So, that’s something he started up and I’m proud of him. I can’t wait to see him continue his success.”
Monday’s annual battle between the two Wildrose Country teams will mark the first time that Roberts plays in a game with the iconic flypast before kickoff.
“It’s definitely going to be a good experience,” said the 23-year old. “I’ve seen it in super bowls and stuff like that, so to actually play in a game and see the (flyover) is going to be fun.”
