Braidwood’s Absence Creates Sterling Opportunity

09/06/2009 01:18

Adam Braidwood's loss can instantly become Dee Sterling's gain and the Queen's University product knows it.

"That was real unfortunate for Adam. I'm not sure what the specifics are as far as Canadians on the field, but I'm sure it helps my situation a little bit," Sterling said of Braidwood's placement on the nine-game injured list that could effect import/non-import ratios.

"That doesn't mean I'm going to take it easy out here. I'm going to be pushing it no matter what."

The six-foot-three, 260-pound defensive lineman may get a greater look now that Braidwood's knee remains a shambles and keeps him out of the lineup.

"You know, we had plans for Adam, but we have to move on. It's a setback, but a setback that we can overcome," said Esks head coach Richie Hall. "One setback isn't going to keep us from moving forward. That's life."

And it should breathe life into a recruit like Sterling, who is 23.

"Very much so. Derrick's going to do a good job, that's one of the reasons why it was one of our priorities to go after him," said Hall. "He's going to make major contributions and he has the ability to play inside or outside, and with the loss of Adam we'll look at him primarily inside."

Sterling joined main camp after three days with the rookies. Now he's playing with the big boys.

"I'm getting used to the system and it's been fun," he said. "The obvious adjustment, I think, is the quickness. Guys get to the spot a little faster and you have to be more conscious about it and get it done."

ALL ABOUT ROGER

The updates can now stop.

His man Roger Federer is the French Open champion, and now quarterback recruit Lester Ricard doesn't have to rely on his updates from Roland Garros from Esks director of communications and marketing Dave Jamieson.

"I'm excited," said Ricard, of Federer's first-ever major win on the French clay.

"The last update picked up my day and turned my practice around," said an elated Ricard. "I've always loved tennis and I started following Roger when he started opening up the can on guys in '05, I think it was. He's the greatest of all time, one of the most dominating athletes, ever."

Federer claimed his record-tying 14th Grand Slam singles title. The Swiss star now turns his attention to a possible sixth Wimbledon title.

"Now (Rafael) Nadal's out of the house and he might miss Wimbledon. That's all I need, let's go for No. 6," Ricard shouted out loud of Federer's assault to come later this month at the All England Club.

THIS 'N' THAT

- Looking for offensive and defensive standouts on Day 1? Receiver Fred Stamps had a nice one-handed grab and was solid throughout, while DB Kelly Malveaux flew around all day, proving how valuable he should be.

- Several recruits remained out of the lineup, including receiver Eric Ware (leg) and DB E.J. Underwood. DB Emanuel White (ankle), joined the group, as did LB Jason Kosec (back) and WR Willie Thornton. A total of 76 players are in main camp.

SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:

As I said a couple of days ago - with Braidwood’s injury, Dee Sterling’s stock just rose a whole bunch.