Photo courtesy of Todd Ternovan

The defending Ontario Conference champion Windsor AKO Fratmen will open the new CJFL season on Saturday night when they face a familiar foe in the Hamilton Hurricanes.   It’s a rematch of last year’s Conference title game.

The Fratmen hosted the Canadian Bowl last season and learned a lot in their loss to the Saskatoon Hilltops.  They are hoping that experience better prepares them for this year and another push to the national final.  However they will need to do that with a number of new and fresh faces.

Head coach Mike LaChance speaks to Ryan Watters about their preparation and mindset just days before the opening kick-off.

Head Coach: Mike LaChance (15th season)

2017 Result: won the Ontario Conference and then hosted/lost the Canadian Bowl to the Saskatoon Hilltops

Starting QB: To be determined

Key Departures: Brandon Reaume, D’Angelo Knox, Adam Slikboer

Expected Team Strength: Coach LaChance believes this year’s defence could be even better and stronger than last years who gave up a Conference low 101 points.

2018 Schedule Quirk: The Fratmen will play three of their first four games at home, then finish the season with three of four on the road.  They will not travel to Ottawa this season, nor will they host the Niagara Regional Raiders.