13 September 2017

editorial

Breaking binary Gender neutrality not child's play

sports

Road to Nationals

Bison women’s soccer starts with a draw and win at home Page 14

Page 6

news

Corporate takeover Student gallery rented out by Bell MTS Page 3 news

Love trumps hate Winnipeggers protest racist hate Page 5 Vo l 1 0 4 · N o 5 · S e p t e m b e r 1 3 , 2 0 1 7 · w w w.t h e m a n i to b a n .co m

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Index

VOL. 104 NO. 5 September 13, 2017

Editor-in-Chief Garett Williams

editor@themanitoban.com / 474.8293

Business manager Sohni Tappia

accounts@themanitoban.com / 474.6535

Advertising Coordinator Ryan Catte

ads@themanitoban.com / 474.6535

Editorial

Managing Editor Malak Abas

me@themanitoban.com

News Editor Imreet Kaur

news@themanitoban.com / 474.6770

News Editor Shaden Abuselah

levi@themanitoban.com/ 474.6770

Comment Editor Shawn Huberdeau

comment@themanitoban.com

science & technology Editor vacant

Sports

science@themanitoban.com

Battling back

arts@themanitoban.com

arts & Culture Editor Olivia Michalczuk

Amanda Wong has faced adversity in her career

Sports Editor Ryan Stelter

sports@themanitoban.com

Copy Editor Evan Tremblay

copy@themanitoban.com

page 13

Design

Design Editor Bram Keast

design@themanitoban.com

Graphics Editor Kelly Campbell

graphics@themanitoban.com

Photo Editor Asha Nelson

photo@themanitoban.com

Design associate vacant graphics associate vacant pHOTO associate vacant pHOTO associate vacant pHOTO associate vacant

Reporters

News vacant News vacant Columnist vacant Columnist vacant arts & culture vacant arts & culture vacant Sports vacant Sports vacant Copy vacant

Volunteer Contributors

Will Gibson Sari Habiluk Anthony Labonté Michael Bell

Jen Doerksen Jennifer Black Erin Meagan Schwartz

Mike Still

MANITOBAN sports

Strap on the Pads

Converted rugby player excelling at American football page 15

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News

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News Editors: Imreet Kaur & Shaden Abuselah Contact: news@themanitoban.com / 474.6770

Corporate use of GoSA disappoints members of School of Fine Arts Student Association UMSU rents out Gallery of Student Art to Bell MTS in place of scheduled student show Shaden Abusaleh, staff

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uring Orientation Week, the University of Manitoba Students’ Union (UMSU) rented out the space of the Gallery of Student Art (GoSA) to Bell MTS, sparking disappointment among members of the School of Fine Arts Student Association (SOFA).

Mathew Lacosse, a fourth-year School of Art student and copresident of SOFA, explained that a show he booked with fellow fine arts student Maya Martinez-Alper earlier this year had to be postponed to accommodate Bell MTS during Orientation Week.

Lacosse said that he and Martinez-Alper were informed of the change in availability of GoSA only a few weeks before the scheduled opening of their show.

“We booked it for the first week of school with the intention of having a show to get people excited about being involved as students,” Lacosse said.

Bell MTS was setting up in GoSA after the space was promised to fine arts students, On UMSU’s website, GoSA Matthew Lacosse and Maya Martinez-Alper, for the first week of classes. is described as “a non-profit and non-commercial student-run gal- should be used for students, especially the public,” she said. opportunities that are possible with lery,” whose mandate is “to promote in the first week.”

The gallery is “a really, really nice it and not have students feel like corstudent art and design work at the Madeline Rae, a fourth-year fine space, it’s really central and it’s a nice porations are being prioritized over University of Manitoba.” arts student and member of SOFA way for students from different facul- their expression.”

Speaking as to why Bell MTS has had two solo shows featured at ties to kind of interact.”

UMSU VP external Wilfred using GoSA is an issue, Lacosse GoSA. Rae claimed that Bell MTS began Sam-King said that throughout his said that for the space to be used as a “It was a really great opportunity setting up while another student's years as a U of M student, GoSA has means of profit “just boggles my mind to show my work in a really public work was still being featured in never been available for shows durand speaks to a much larger issue of space and gain experience setting-up GoSA. ing Orientation Week, but has rather corporate takeover of everything.” a show and learning how I wanted Calling the action “disrespectful,” been “used to store day timers, as a “I would just think that something my work represented,” Rae said.

Rae said, “Our work should be taken staging area for free breakfasts and like a students’ union would be able Rae said that having work fea- seriously. The work and expression other such programming.” to see an issue with that and have tured at GoSA is an important that’s shown in that gallery should Sam-King added that while boundaries with their corporate practical application for an emerg- be taken seriously.”

Orientation Week consists of balsponsorships,” he added. ing artist's career.

GoSA is “a space for students, ancing student opportunities and “That space should definitely have “For me, it was super beneficial paid into by students,” Rae added. requests from external organizations, to get to actually install my work “And I would love to see what can external requests are important as a boundary set around it.

“It’s a space for students and it and then have the feedback from happen with the space and all the they provide sponsorship funding

photo by asha nelson

which is central to maintaining UMSU’s services.

“I will not get into the specifics of our agreement with Bell MTS, but it is worth noting that the sponsorship from this single week is enough to fund GoSA for the 2017/18 school year,” he said.

Sam-King also noted that the double-booking was a miscommunication on UMSU’s part, and that the union will take measures to remedy the situation with those involved and will consider feedback from the student body in future decision-making.

Faculty ratifies four-year agreement under "duress" Imreet Kaur, staff

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he University of Manitoba librarians and instructors, because Faculty Association (UMFA) they have less protection than profesmembership, which consists of sors do against layoffs for financial approximately 1,200 professors, reasons.” instructors, and librarians ratified a UMFA also secured provisions long term deal Sept. 8. surrounding workload protection The agreement, which was ratified guidelines for librarians, which were subject to the condition compensa- not guaranteed when a short-term tion was not freely bargained, was agreement was reached following reached after an expedited package a three-week strike in November was sent to the U of M administra- 2016. Workload protections were tion before the 2017-18 academic year also secured for instructors in the began. Both teams participated in new contract. bargaining sessions over the summer.

Morrill said UMFA remains UMFA brought four proposals of unsatisfied with the compensation significant importance to its member- members currently receive, referring ship to the bargaining table that were to U of M faculty as “poorly paid” “outstanding from the last round of compared to other professors at a bargaining,” said Janet Morrill, the group of similar Canadian research union's president. universities of which the U of M is a Morrill noted that “The first [pro- member, branded the U15. posal] was improved job security for Morrill said interference from

the provincial government on salary proposals “significantly hampered the negotiations,” a charge which also appeared on ratification ballots filled out by UMFA members.

Morrill said the provisions with respect to duress were necessary to point out.

“If we accepted the administration’s position without any caveats, it would appear that we were in agreement,” she said.

The increases in salaries will be consistent with the Public Services Sustainability Act (PSSA), a bill introduced in the provincial legislature in March of this year, which aims to “protect the sustainability of public services” in Manitoba by imposing wage freezes on public sector employees as expired employment contracts come up for renegotiation.

Not yet passed into law, UMFA calls this bill “unproclaimed and unconstitutional.”

“The constitutional implications of what the government has done shouldn't be taken lightly,” Morrill added.

UMFA has argued that the terms of the PSSA, applied to emplyees of the university, hampers bargaining in good faith, as monetary items of the contract can't be negotiated freely.

The salary increases for the first three years covered by the contract are zero per cent, 0.75 per cent, and one per cent, respectively.

Salary increases for the fourth year of the contract will be negotiated in the final year.

Morrill said that the faculty and librarians are enthusiastic about the upcoming academic year.

John Danakas, the University of Manitoba’s executive director of public affairs, congratulating both teams, said the agreement ensures a stable academic year.

“This is wonderful news for our entire community, bringing with it stability for both students and faculty,” he said.

Faculty have been without a contract since a one-year agreement, which brought to an end a 21-day strike that saw hundreds of classes interrupted, expired at the end of March.

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News

News Editors: Imreet Kaur & Shaden Abuselah Contact: news@themanitoban.com / 474.6770

Hundreds gather at legislature to protest scheduled rally Multiple speakers affirm the value of diversity at event hosted

by Islamic Social Services Association Inc. Imreet Kaur, staff

said, “Indigenous peoples will never, ever stand for that on our territories.”

Kevin Lamoureux, MP for Winnipeg North and one of the event speakers, emphasized the value of the diverse fabric of Canada.

“Our greatest asset is our diversity: it is our diversity that makes us the wonderful country we are today,” he said.

“And a part of that diversity is to fight injustices and hatred is one of those injustices that we should not tolerate in society.”

Humaira Jaleel, co-chair of Amnesty International Winnipeg - Group 19, highlighted the importance of such public gatherings.

“I bring my kids to each and every one of them," she said, "because this shows that there are more people who are supportive of our diverse culture, who are supportive of love, not hate.”

Against fascism: same message, different rally

photos by asha nelson

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undreds gathered at the south steps of the Manitoba Legislative Building on Saturday, Sept. 9, to take part in the Winnipeg Diversity Rally Against Hate, organized in response to a planned gathering by members of the Worldwide Coalition Against Islam who were supposed to hold a rally downtown the same day.

The event was hosted by Islamic Social Services Association Inc. (ISSA) - an organization that works to provide precise information on Islam to the public, as well as working together with other interfaith organizations on human rights issues.

Speaker after speaker reminded the audience of the importance of denouncing hate and embracing diversity.

Emcee Krishna Lalbiharie opened the event by explaining how racist organizations in Winnipeg have

been emboldened by recent events in Charlottesville that resulted in violent clashes between white supremacists and anti-fascist protestors.

“Bigots marched thunderously, mulling hatred and antisemitism and Islamophobia and xenophobia and homophobia and misogyny […] under the rubric banner reading ‘Unite the Right,’” he said.

“In Canada and all over the world we instead unite against the hate with zeal, with intelligence, with compassion, with empathy, and with love. Love trumps hate. Always.”

Shahina Siddiqui, president of ISSA, spoke at the event denouncing hatred against minorities and condemned discrimination against Indigenous peoples in Canada.

“Some may think I am here to talk about Islamophobia, but guess what: I am here to about antisemitism. I am here to talk about homophobia. I am

here to stand with our black community,” Siddiqui said.

“I am here to stand with all those marginalized communities that face racism.

I am here first and foremost for the first peoples of this country, of this nation, of this land. Racism against the Indigenous of Canada is shameful, it’s deplorable, and it’s disgusting.”

Siddiqui placed emphasis on her experience immigrating to Canada more than 40 years ago.

“As a grandmother, I want my grandchildren to know that the newcomers who came to this land came through the front door,” she said.

Siddiqui emphasized that immigrants must stand with First Nations communities to fight racism.

Following Siddiqui, Nahanni Fontaine, NDP MLA for St. Johns, also spoke at the event, commending residents of Winnipeg for coming out in large numbers for the rally.

Prior to the rally at the Legislative Building, another rally organized

by Fascist Free Treaty 1 (FF1) and “From where I am standing, it is Winnipeg Against Fascism, labeled such a beautiful sight to see so many Winnipeg Unites Against Hate and Manitobans come together in defi- White Supremacy, took place at the ance of hate,” she said. corner of Portage Avenue and Spence “You are all so beautiful, and so Street, not far from the University of diverse, and I am so proud to be a Winnipeg.

Manitoban.”

Omar Kinnarath, an organizer for FF1, spoke to the Manitoban about the continued need for events that denounce hatred. “ In Canada and all Kinnarath noted that “None of us over the world we want to be here."

"None of us, a year ago, would have instead unite against imagined that we would be organizthe hate with zeal, ing against hate groups," he said.

"It is something we have to do, with intelligence, something that we have experience with, and something that we need with compassion, to get together and do any time that with empathy and white supremacists even entertain the idea of showing up.” with love. Love Over the past few weeks, antisetrumps hate. Always.” mitic graffiti referencing the Ku Klux Klan has been found in Omand Park - Krishna Lalbiharie, and along Wellington Crescent. event emcee “We live in a community that will organize against [racism] every single time," he said.

Thanking the organizers, Fontaine "We will stand up for each other said, “I want to first and foremost say […] so hate groups do not have a Miigwech to the organizers, and more future here,” Kinnarath said. specifically to Shahina who has been Observing that, “Racism is not doing this for many, many years not different anywhere, racism is the only for the Muslim community but same everywhere,” Kinnarath added for all of us. For our children and the that in order to curb racism, communext generations of our children so nities must “deny [white supremacists that we can live in a truly equitable and racists] a platform."

Manitoba.”

"Don't pay attention to them," he In her speech, Fontaine also said, "and anytime they show up, ref lected on what it means to crush them with numbers and crush acknowledge the land before starting them with love like we saw today.” gatherings. Reflecting on her grandfather’s experience fighting Nazis as a young man and having spent nine months as a prisoner of war, Fontaine

VOL. 104 NO. 5 September 13, 2017

News

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Manitoba Hydro could save money while helping the environment U of M study finds that reduced mowing and herbicide use can save Hydro money and restore habitat for prairie species Valerie Nyamori

photo by asha nelson

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esearchers at the University of Manitoba have published two articles outlining potential benefits to native butterflies and birds to be reaped from modification of existing mowing and herbecide regimens in utility corridors.

The articles, derived from field observations of 48 Manitoba Hydro right-of-ways in and around Winnipeg from 2007-2009, were published last January and August in Landscape and Urban Planning and Avian Conservation and Ecology, respectively.

Right-of-ways below transmission lines are generally maintained

by Manitoba Hydro through frequent mowing, spraying of herbicides, vegetation and debris clearing in order to control vegetation height, for aes-

thetic appeal, and as a safety measure.

The article focused on birds is The lead scientist, Lionel Leston, thought to be the first urban bird who currently resides in Alberta, was study to evaluate different effects a Ph.D. student at the time of the of urban landscapes on bird species study. that looks beyond traffic and noise as Leston and his research assistant, potential factors.

There has been a general decline U of M professor Nicola Koper, conducted population counts of native of grassland bird species populations bird and butterfly species present, in North America. The authors of the while noting factors such as the pres- study note that long-term changes ence of native plant species. in land use, including increases in “I was interested in how the mow- land devoted to agriculture and ing regime along transmission lines urbanization, are all probable causes and surrounding land uses - like the of grassland bird decrease linked to amount of urban land - how they destruction of habitat. interacted to influence the diver“We’ve been really concerned sity and abundance of species along about the loss of tallgrass prairie transmission lines, and whether or habitat across Manitoba,” Koper said. not urban transmission lines might “Manitoba has lost more than 99 per be managed as habitat for different cent of the tallgrass prairie that was species,” Leston said. here before.”

The studies suggests that managing urban grassy areas such as those below transmission lines could help alleviate this decline. “[Professor Leston] found that if you reduce mowing from twice a year to once a year, we got quite an improvement in the diversity of a range of different species,” Koper added.

“And so that's something that could be done that would save Hydro money but could still accomplish their goals: you could keep the woody vegetation down with mowing once a year.”

For birds, counting was done three times every summer from 2007 to 2009 to measure populations.

The study suggests that efforts to increase grassland bird populations in

urban areas should be concentrated on areas with little adjacency to shrubland and forests, on which the mowing regimens can be adjusted.

The study further notes that mowing on the selected lands should be adjusted to suit grassland birds.

Speaking to the potential societal benefits of implementing the study’s findings, Leston said they extend beyond simply cost-saving measures.

“There's the potential environmental benefits of reduced noise pollution,” he said, “because you're not mowing so much, reduced chemical pollution because you're not spending as much money spraying as much herbicide or using as much fuel in mowing and spraying.”

Editorial Editor-In-Chief: Garett Williams Contact: Editor@themanitoban.com / 474.8293

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Gender neutrality is common sense Conservative critics sacrifice compassion for tradition Shawn Garbutt, staff

graphic by kelly campbell

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ysterical outburst leapt from the lips of those who label their intellectual opponents “snowflakes’” in times of disagreement when John Lewis, a U.K department store, announced all of its children’s clothes would henceforth be sold with gender neutral labels.

Conservatives reacted to the move with outrage and dismay – as if facing matters of great moral crisis. In this case, visceral reaction is one relating to fears about what is seen as the societal capitulation to political correctness and a widespread loss of common sense, as demonstrated by backlash on Twitter, the words of conservative pundit Piers Morgan, and British member of parliament Andrew Bridgen.

This story parallels recent debates in Canada concerning changes that are underway in Ontario. As early as 2018, the province may offer genderneutral birth certificates. One option for implementation is to follow the federal government’s practice for passports, which would allow parents to mark an “X” for non-binary under the sex category instead of the traditional “M” for male or “F” for female.

While lacking the rhetorical pomp and flair of their U.K. counterparts, Canadian conservatism seems to dominate the discourse on this issue: an Angus Reid poll conducted in July found that 58 per cent of Canadians disagree with the changes.

One prominent objection to the

Ontario changes is that biologically sexed female representation in clinical studies that influence medical practice is severely lacking.

In this case, the logical rationale behind such an activist’s protests against labelling an individual’s sex as gender-neutral is somewhat understandable. However, as this logic is one found almost exclusively in the radical feminist blogosphere, it is unlikely that this is the motivating thrust of Canadians’ objections as recorded in the poll.

There are, of course, important differences between the Canadian and British cases. One has to do with the conflation of sex and gender categories on the birth certificates, while the other solely revolves around stereotyping cuts of clothing.

Still, the arguments against both changes share ancestral roots firmly planted in a tradition of bigotry that targets women and the queer community, be it explicit or implicit.

The opposition drumming up conservative blowback against gender neutrality at large can be summed up by the words of British MP Andrew Bridgen when he took to the airwaves to denounce gender neutrality in children’s clothing. Bridgen claimed there are fundamental biological facts about gender that innately divvies up boys in one column and girls in the other. He asserted that to deny this was not only out of touch but also uneconomical, saying parents

shouldn’t have to waste time “looking to buy a dress for their six-year-old boys.”

Allowing even a minor social license for the expression of gender-neutrality may go a long way in validating children who are experiencing trauma at the hands of the two-gendermodel mafia Now, if you listen closely, you can nearly hear the whoosh of Bridgen’s words as it zooms past the point.

Firstly, if we follow Bridgen’s argument, the question of gender biology becomes moot. Even if gender is biological – and there exists serious science that doubts the very notion – this line of thinking concludes that clothes themselves lack a biology and thus any gender.

Further lacking an intellectually robust account that can explain the alleged necessity of gendering clothes beyond “parental inconvenience,” Bridgen and those who share his position are the only people in

this sad excuse of a debate who are out of touch and lacking common sense. The material risks gender-nonconforming children face have been empirically documented for years.

These comments show a mighty indifference to a serious issue facing gender-nonconforming youth. I would hazard they are unaccompanied by even a single care in the world for the struggles of the historically marginalized communities whose interests are most at stake in this debate.

Not to mention, Bridgen and company’s statements are backed not by any modicum of a reasoned argument but rather their own personal prejudices, those premised on doubting the validity of a way of life at odds with heteronormative standards.

A 2012 article published in Pediatrics, the journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics, found that gender-nonconforming children are at an elevated risk of experiencing physical, sexual, and psychological abuse – and further research finds this is most often at the hands of parents or family friends.

Consequently, such children are also at higher risk of developing posttraumatic stress disorder. Importantly, this exists on top of the wealth of data that already shows LGBTTQ* youth are the youth demographic with the highest homelessness rates, bullying rates, harassment rates, and so on.

Note that kids are not making

themselves homeless, nor are they abusing themselves by wearing gender-nonspecific clothes. Rather, it is a bigoted society and its disciples of intolerance – those who find themselves raising children who don’t fall perfectly in line with regressive gender norms – that bring violence into those very children’s lives. Allowing even a minor social license for the expression of gender-neutrality may go a long way in validating children who are experiencing trauma at the hands of the two-gender-model mafia.

Indeed, it takes great delusion, little common sense, and a wealth of cruelty to react to the encouragement of gender-neutral dress in children with scoffing derision. Although limited to superficial reforms, given remedial actions are focused on the effects rather than sources of oppression, actions taken to encourage a climate of gender expression that transcends a draconian gender binary are crucial in creating a society that nurtures and protects vulnerable children.

But all things considered, one is hard-pressed to imagine what there is to be lost in a world that encourages freedom of creative expression. I suppose only the traditionalist tyrants who would bar it from existing in the first place.

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Comment Comment Editor: Shawn Huberdeau Contact: comment@themanitoban.com

U SPORTS and CFL missing an opportunity There are easy ways to help grow football in Canada Ryan Stelter, staff

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very year for two weeks, football because I know there are hundreds, fans in the prairies drop their oh- if not thousands, of Winnipeggers so-Canadian politeness to partake and Saskatchewanians who travel to in the greatest rivalry in the CFL. Regina and Winnipeg, respectively, When the Winnipeg Blue Bombers to watch their teams play. There could and the Saskatchewan Roughriders be ticket packages set up to encourtake to the field, it can get personal. age fans to come out a day early and Since a young age, I have been see the Bisons and the University raised to dislike the Roughriders - of Regina Rams do battle. It would Saskatchewan in general - but I will add another dimension to an already leave my thoughts about The Wheat fierce rivalry.

Province out of this.

The same could happen with the This weekend I watched the Banjo Banjo Bowl, only this time you could Bowl being played out at Investors call it the University Banjo Bowl, or Group Field (IGF), with the Bombers something to that effect. The Bisons soundly beating the Roughriders could host the Rams the day before 48-28. I couldn’t help but recall that the Bombers host the ‘Riders. the University of Manitoba Bisons These games would be more local had done battle with the University and a better indication of the footof Saskatchewan Huskies in that very ball prowess of the two provinces, stadium a week prior. as many Bisons players are from Then it hit me: why aren’t the CFL Manitoba and many Rams come and U SPORTS football teams doing from Saskatchewan. The same could more business together? Everyone be said about Regina’s provincial knows about the Labour Day Classic rivals, the Huskies. and the Banjo Bowl pitting the It has never made sense to me that Bombers against the ‘Riders, so why in a city like Winnipeg, the Bisons not add another game to the mix for can never seem to attract more than football fans?

2,000 fans to IGF. Offering tickets The reason I bring this up is at a lower price, and included with

the purchase of CFL tickets, would get more people out to the university games. Can you imagine the atmosphere of 10,000 rabid football fans out? I am sure that number would be attainable, if not beatable, if the right ticket packages were set up.

There are matchups like this all across the country just begging to be spiced up. It would be great for fans to get into their local university team For all those CFL fans who watched this past weekend’s Banjo Bowl, there were a few former Bisons on the field - Nic Demski and Kienan LaFrance were playing for the ‘Riders, to name just a few. The Bisons have produced two NFL players in the past two seasons in David Onyemata and Geoff Gray, never mind the countless

CFL players Manitoba has pumped This could also open up the chance out over the years. Why shouldn’t we for a potential television deal with sell tickets in a way that lets fans see TSN to broadcast those games. these guys before they make it big?

I’m just speculating, but I don’t As Bison football head coach think that’s outside of the realm of Brian Dobie told reporters after Gray possibility. signed a contract with the Green Bay There are matchups like this all Packers back in April, “People that across the country just begging to be aren’t coming out to the games are spiced up. It would be great for fans missing out on a great product. I’m to get into their local university team. not just talking about Manitoba but U SPORTS football doesn’t get there’s guys who will be churned out enough credit for how entertaining it every year to play in the CFL and the is. Having spent years covering these odd guy in the NFL.” games, I enjoy them more than the This concept doesn’t have to be CFL or even the NFL. While I can applied only in Winnipeg and Regina. only speak to the Canada West, as There are similar rivalry games hap- I often do not have enough time to pening across the CFL. When watch teams out East, I know they the Calgary Stampeders and the produce some thrilling football Edmonton Eskimos play a home-and- games. home, why not have the University of I know U SPORTS will do anyAlberta Golden Bears and University thing to gain exposure – and rightof Calgary Dinos play the same fully so. But I think one of their best weekend as well? The Hamilton opportunities to grow the Canadian Tiger-Cats and Ottawa Redblacks game of football is right under their also face off, so throw the University noses. of Ottawa Gee-Gees or Carleton University Ravens on the docket to play the McMaster University Marauders at the same time.

UMSU and the “ally” falsehood Proposed changes to community group organizational framework for the worse Jennifer Black

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n response to the Sept. 6 article, "Critics cry foul over UMSU organizational shakeup."

When the Manitoban reported that UMSU has dramatically restructured its service centres - eliminating independent coordinator positions for the Womyn’s Centre, Rainbow Pride Mosaic, Aboriginal Student Association, and Accessibility Centre - in favour of a single coordinator to oversee all four spaces, I was angry but unsurprised.

For now, ignore that this is deeply problematic - assuming, as it does, that the UMSU executive is justified in unilaterally determining the mandate of a service centre as well as whether or not said mandate is being met, all without prioritizing the input of the actual collectives and councils that work out of these centres.

For now, ignore the convoluted logic of claiming to have prioritized the consultation and consent of the elected community representatives relevant to each centre - while at the same time admitting that the coordinators are currently more connected with these communities, as the UMSU executive admits in the Manitoban report on the organizational shakeup.

Ignore the frank absurdity of the notion that replacing four coordinators with one coordinator will somehow create better services and resources at four independent centres.

Ignore all of this because my space here is limited and I have a particular bone to pick.

The UMSU service centres have traditionally been staffed only by those who identify with the communities the centres service: the coordinator of the Womyn’s Centre needs to identify as a woman, trans, or non-binary individual; the Rainbow Pride Mosaic coordinator needs to identify as falling somewhere on the LGBTTQ* spectrum, and so on.

“Allyship” is not a status to be claimed but work to be done This self-identification matters, not only because the service centres are intended to offer safer spaces meaning, in part, that if you do not identify with the community that the centre services, you are asked to refrain from using the space - but also because the coordinator role, at its core, is representational.

While there are UMSU community representatives elected to represent community voices on UMSU council, the service centre coordinators represent community voices in the day-to-day operations of the centres. They uphold the community principles of the centres during meet-

ings, office hours, and in the frontline organizational work each centre does with the rest of campus.

Of course, it is perfectly possible for a candidate for the new coordinator position to identify as a member of all four relevant community groups; however, that isn’t the criteria for being hired to this position. As the UMSU executive made explicit, a hireable candidate need only to identify as an “ally” of the relevant communities, and they would receive training to compensate for any gaps in knowledge.

An “ally,” as this sort of discourse understands it, is someone who has learned about oppression, is sympathetic to those who experience it, and has committed themselves to helping those communities overcome oppression. An “ally” puts the needs of people more marginalized than themselves first. An “ally” takes hits for other communities and puts their privilege on the line to create tangible gains. An “ally” understands that knowledge is not equal to the lived experiences of oppression and cedes ground to others who have experienced such oppression in order to amplify their voices.

See the problem yet? To accept this job would mean that you, as an “ally,” believe yourself just as qualified to represent and empower a marginalized group as an actual member of that group. To accept a position that

actively erases space - not to mention employment - for the people you purport to represent and empower is inherently anti-ally.

The position is oxymoronic. It is simply impossible to both occupy the position and also justify your proclaimed “ally” status.

In creating this position, UMSU has inadvertently exposed the inherent problem of “ally” status.

“Ally” is the new accountability cop-out. Rather than signifying a commitment to the safety and wellbeing of others, as the term may be meant to suggest, “ally” now represents a much more insidious, bureaucratically-regulated social scorecard. Anyone can claim status as an “ally” and, all-too-often, people do so to re-centre a privileged subject in a space specifically cleared by and for those on the margins.

Don’t identify personally with a community? No sweat, just assure the community that you’re familiar with the issues they face - heck, take up all the space you can to assure them; take their jobs to assure them, why not? “Ally” is invincible.

Do something that hurts or belittles a community? No sweat, just undergo a formulaic “ally training” and rejuvenate your credentials as a certified “ally.” Will the appointed candidate need a 1:1 ratio of hours served/hours of “ally train-

ing” to compensate for the violation of taking this job?

For years, queer and trans, black and Indigenous, and people of colour have been telling us that “ally” is not a noun but a verb - that no one should get to claim “ally” as a status but instead should work each day to demonstrate their “allyship.” This framework prioritizes the action of allyship. That is, doing actual solidarity work without demanding reward, amplifying the voices of others instead of simply taking up space, and being critical of any selfcongratulatory rhetoric of “allyship” that allows self-proclaimed “allies” to assume leadership roles in communities that they are not a part of.

This framework insists that “allyship” is active, not static. “Allyship” not a status to be claimed but work to be done. When we refuse to acknowledge these teachings and insist on institutionalizing “ally” as an identity category, the “ally” is exposed as a spectre - the substanceless ghost of an unmet promise to action.

And how do you combat a ghost?

Well, you can’t. You just have to tear down the house and rebuild.

In this case, UMSU is the house.

Jennifer Black was the 2010-11 UMSU women’s representative, 201213 UMSU VP advocacy, and a former UMSU Womyn’s Centre coordinator.

Diversions Graphics Editor: Kelly Campbell Contact: graphics@themanitoban.com

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September 13 - October 4 You have cultivated an incredible support system, don’t forget it. While your September is a whirlwind of new projects and deadlines, remember to keep communication open and fluid. It’s Virgo season - confrontation is necessary but isn’t required to be aggressive (unless you’re addressing TERFS or something). Listen to Crying On The Bathroom Floor by MUNA and rise up to defend yourself. You’ve got this.

Shake off all of the past experiences that are haunting you Follow your motivation. Follow your sponto Lets Have a KiKi by The Scissor taneity. Resist the urge to put your emoSisters. You’ve beenx through a lot tions in a glass bottle placed precariously this year. Doubting your intuition is on the edge of a shelf - you know better dangerous, even (especially) when than this. In preparation for the new moon, others judge you for your precauput on your favourite outfit and listen to tion. When Mercury opposes Neptune I’m In A Mood by Mykki Blanco while you next week, stick to your truth and write affirmations on your windows. You boundaries. Spend this month gethave a lot to celebrate and your challenge ting to know and love yourself. is to let yourself do so.

graphic by kelly campbell

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Arts & Culture Arts & Culture Editor: Olivia Michalczuk Contact: arts@themanitoban.com

Herbivore haven coming to Winnipeg Vegfest taking place this Saturday Jen Doerksen

photo by jen doerksen

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rom hobby-horsing to a vegan mac and cheese cookoff, VegFest is the first vegan and vegetarian festival to take place in Manitoba.

The festival will host a number of speakers, cruelty-free food and artisan vendors, and family-friendly activities.

“Winnipeg is one of the last cities in North America to be hosting one,” Jason Hannan, the festival’s lead organizer, said.

A staple of larger Canadian cities such as Vancouver and Montreal, smaller cities including Hamilton and London, Ontario, have begun to host vegetarian festivals as well.

“There’s a large and thriving community of vegans, vegetarians, environmentalists, and activists, and this is a way to bring them all together under one big tent where they can have important, lively conversations, eat good food, participate in vegan fun and entertainment,” Hannan said.

“It’s long overdue and we’re hoping to establish this.”

Stella’s Café and Bakery, Feast Cafe Bistro, and The Velvet Glove are among the vendors set to cater the event.

Stella’s will be premiering a new vegetarian dish – the Whole Bowl that can be made vegan during the festival.

Koren Thomas-Mueller, catering director for Stella’s for the weekend, said Stella’s vegan dishes are exceptionally popular.

“We find even those who typically eat meat will give our vegan or vegetarian options a try and provide their feedback,” she said.

She said she expects the festival will shed light on vegan meal options already available in Winnipeg.

The festival will host six keynote

speakers from varying backgrounds relating to animal compassion and activism, including Winnipeg’s David Nickarz, vice president of Sea Shepherd Conservation Society - Canada, and Carol Adams, author of The Sexual Politics of Meat: A Feminist-Vegetarian Critical Theory.

Nickarz has been a vegan for 25 years and has attended vegan festivals in other cities, including Melbourne, Australia.

“It’s the first one in Winnipeg so it won’t be the biggest, but we’re hoping to get a lot of people curious about it.”

Benjamin Dueck, a University of Winnipeg student and a vegan, is looking forward to seeing Adams speak at the festival.

“She's an academic, but she writes in a way that cuts straight to your emotions without coming off as aggressive or preachy, a stereotype that a lot of animal rights thinkers have to overcome,” Dueck said.

The festival’s organizers aim to make the festival an annual event that could strengthen Winnipeg’s vegetarian and vegan communities.

“This is the first time I’ve seen an event tying together food, ideas and fun, happening on such a large scale,” Dueck said.

He said he hopes it will also serve to bring various communities together.

The first annual VegFest takes place on Sept. 16 at the University of Winnipeg Axworthy Health and Recplex. Doors open at 9 a.m.

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Arts & Culture

Arts & Culture Editor: Olivia Michalczuk Contact: arts@themanitoban.com

X-Cues’ Café and Lounge still live after five decades on Sargent Ave. Legendary West End staple thrives with Game of Thrones, open jam nights Olivia Michalczuk, staff

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-Cues’ Café and Lounge has been When you enter X-Cues’ before a West End staple for almost half noon on any day of the week, you will immediately be greeted by the sound a century.

Formerly known as Enzo’s Sports of a few dozen Italian men playing Bar, it first opened on a bustling of cards. From mutters which crescendo Sargent Avenue in 1969. The broth- into roars and back down again, the ers Infantino, Gaetano and Enzo, red card room is always packed with arrived from Montreal shortly after generations of card players buying leaving their home in Italy and imme- each other Italian coffees. Wives of diately transformed their business the men playing cards on occasion into a home-away-from-home for still call X-Cues’ landline phone to many Italians. remind them to come home, and the In 1968, Enzo and his wife took a room clears before dinner. trip to Winnipeg. When he arrived Food is expertly prepared by back in Montreal, he asked his broth- Franca and the beloved Tony ers which one was coming back with Lamorte, who has been working in him to open a café. Gaetano brought the X-Cues’ kitchen for more than his wife and two young children, 20 years. Authentic Italian specials Franca and Sal, to live in Winnipeg like arancini, chicken parmesan, and and opened Enzo’s along with his meatballs are all covered in homebrother in 1968 on Notre Dame Ave. made sauce and cooked to perfection.

The business relocated to Sargent Ave Unlike other coffee shops in in 1969, and has remained there ever the city, baristas do not weigh their since. The family-owned and oper- espresso or measure the milk before ated business is still run by Gaetano’s making what is arguably the best cofchildren Franca, Sal, and Rosie fee in the city. When baristas start almost 50 years later. their shift, the espresso is to be eyed In their humble beginnings, the up, watched, and tasted because even big hearted brothers accepted anyone the weather can affect the amount of into their family, as they left theirs beans to be brewed.

You won’t find a thermometer in behind in Montreal to start the new business. When Italian families the milk for lattes. Workers are taught would arrive in Winnipeg with only to listen to the milk and touch the botthe clothes on their backs, taxi drivers tom of the metal frothing jug until it would take them to X-Cues’ where is too hot to handle – that’s when they they were guaranteed a meal, a place are ready to pour. If the foam is thick to sleep, and help finding a job in the enough to watch the sugar slowly fall neighbourhood. through, one will be rewarded with Today, you can still see that cus- a bravo. Workers have a rolodex in tomers from a vast number of nation- their brain of specialty orders, so that alities and cultures have stayed loyal regulars just give their server a nod or to X-Cues’ across generations because glance to have their coffee made to of the owners' big, welcoming hearts. exactly their preference.

The walls of X-Cues’ host vintage soccer photographs, and there is a large soccer mural on one of the building's exterior walls. X-Cues’ is a local hub for watching soccer games in the community, no matter which team is playing. The place fills to standing room only when Italy plays; fans old and young to come see their team compete. There's nothing like X-Cues’ during an Italian soccer game, particularily after a goal.

The remaining room on the walls is covered with work by local artists and photographers, and rotates on a monthly basis. Local artists have the opportunity to sell and showcase their art to the café's diverse set of customers. From wildlife photography and landscapes to detailed flower paintings and celebrity-animal hybrid portraits, there are unique artists from across the city using the walls

week to expand, network, and share their music with the community.

Hosts of Sargent Jam play a set with their band and afterwards, they open the stage to an open mic - jam hybrid where musicians can play alone, with others, or just hop on stage and collaborate with other musicians they have never met or played with before. The experience has left musicians and musicophiles coming back week after week.

Generations of music-makers spanning many genres and levels of skill cover and create music that is unique and may never be played the same again.

Mitchell is also the mastermind behind weekly Game of Thrones nights at X-Cues'. Starting in January, X-Cues’ aired two episodes of Game of Thrones every Sunday leading up to the premiere of the show’s seventh season. Mitchell put her heart into having themed skits, props, and a modified version of Cards Against Humanity to share with fellow fans.

The first night of season seven was host to a full house, and now over 120 people reserve seats to watch Game of Thrones on six big screens amongst other fans. The season finale had over 150 attendees, and Mitchell is hoping that next season there will be just as many fans coming in to watch.

"Woke Comedy Hour" is one of the newest events at X-Cues’ that strives to create a welcoming and inclusive space. The event is a monthly open mic that showcases women of colour, Indigenous women, and non-binary folk of colour. Mitchell is proud of the success it has become and is hoping that the event continues to expand.

Among the parties, socials, and live music that X-Cues’ hosts, one of the signature events held every year is the annual Christmas Feast. People of the West End that are unable to have a Christmas dinner are treated to a meal prepared with care by the cooks photos provided by Stefanie Infantino at X-Cues’ and volunteers, served in the café. Hundreds of people line up of X-Cues’ as a gallery for their work. to sit down and have a Christmas dinOver the decades X-Cues’ has ner with their families to the sound of operated, the business has evolved live music, and even get free picture due to their open-mindedness with Santa and gifts. towards new projects and ideas.

Over the years, X-Cues’ has Currently, X-Cues’ is host to many changed to keep up with the evolvweekly events that bring together ing community around it. people that would otherwise not Hopefully, X-Cues’ will continue have the chance to meet and share to host events for people in the comtheir passions. munity as well as become a more Entertainment organizers Cherise competitive music venue in the city Mitchell and Stefanie Infantino spent during the evenings, while continucountless hours trying to keep up ing to providing the community with with the ever-evolving city around good food and coffee during the day.

X-Cues’, and their hard work has The small dream of the Infantino begun to pay off. brothers to open a café in Winnipeg What started as an apparent flop, has become an irreplaceable staple of the Thursday open mic at X-Cues’ the West End and an ever-evolving would sometimes have no attend- community space that is a second ees besides than the host. Infantino home to many families throughout and Mitchell stuck with it, and now the city.

"Sargent Jam" has become a staple for some local musicians who come every

13

Sports Sports Editor: Ryan Stelter Contact: sports@themanitoban.com

A captain’s courage Despite two ACL tears, Bison soccer captain Amanda Wong continues to impress on and off the pitch Mike Still

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ison women's soccer captain Amanda Wong has had a stellar career up to this point. However, her resiliency during moments of tribulation is arguably what stands out most in her story.

When Wong was 13 years old, she tore her ACL for the first time. It was a difficult recovery process, but she made it through.

Just a few seasons later, she helped lead her club team - FC Northwest - to an undefeated campaign, being named the Manitoba Soccer Association’s outstanding female youth player of the year for that season.

Fast forward to 2015, Wong’s second season with the Bisons and first year as captain. Optimism was high for the talented midfielder, who had started and played in all 12 regular season games the year prior.

But before Wong was able to gather any form of sustained momentum, disaster struck, and she tore the same ACL for a second time just one game into the schedule.

“When it happened, it was obviously super devastating. I kind of had a feeling in my head that that’s what had happened, just because I had done it once before,” Wong said.

“It was really hard to be sitting on the bench for that entire season, and some of the graduating girls I would’ve liked to have played with for another season, which is too bad.”

Having gone through it all once before, Wong knew exactly what to expect from the rehabilitation process though, as she observed, “That didn’t necessarily make it any easier.”

It took roughly seven months for Wong to get back to full contact,

photo provided by jeff miller

which is to be expected. What she said surprised her was the adjustments she had to make with regards to the rest of her lower body.

The first time she got her hamstring taken out, and the second time she got her quadriceps tendon removed.

“It was different in the sense that I got a different tendon used as the graft,” Wong said.

“It was majorly different actually. scored Manitoba’s first goal of the Six for the first time since 2008, while It was hard to even activate my quad contest. also earning her first nod as a Canada muscle or lift my leg for a month.

“That was a huge moment for me West all-star.

"It was harder the second time and it was super exciting just to know “I guess that was just validation, and also just because I was older, the that I had gotten back to the level,” especially for all the work that I’d put body’s not as young.”

Wong said. in over the last year,” she said.

Despite the setback, Wong conThe former standout for FC “My hard work paid off, and I was tinued in rehab and was back on the Northwest was also named captain really proud of myself.” lineup for the Bisons’ first pre-season for the second consecutive year in game of 2016.

2016, and she didn’t disappoint, helpTo put the icing on the cake, she ing the Bisons make it to the Select

Canadian Women’s Hockey League to pay players Jason Pchajek

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anadian Women’s Hockey pensation would play in it.

League (CWHL) players will “It’s a great chance and dream for finally be paid, starting in the 2017- girls coming into the sport to know 18 season. that maybe one day they will be proThe league announced the move fessional hockey players,” she said. on its website Sept. 1, following the “I grew up with that thought myself, approval of a pay structure by the until I was old enough to understand CWHL Board of Directors. The that it’s not really possible for women.” minimum compensation is $2,000, Hovi was quick to point out that climbing to a ceiling of $10,000. compensation is not the sole deterCompensation rates are based on the minant for women’s hockey gaining number of years a player has been legitimacy as a professional sport, but with the league. is optimistic about its place within “It’s great news and something the game. that had to happen and what women “Getting money will give women’s deserve,” Bison forward Venla Hovi hockey more visibility in media and said. “But we’re still so far from that way the sport will only keep on equality and this is just a start to a growing,” she said. “For people to see greater future.” the sport on TV is a way to underHovi, who has built an impres- stand and realize how skilled and sive résumé with both the Bisons [what] high-level athletes women’s and the Finnish National Team, hockey players truly are.” was excited about the future of The announcement of payments women’s hockey, and the role com- for players came a few months after

the CWHL revealed it is expanding manager. The CWHL now also has overseas to the untapped Chinese the team’s logo and name on their market with two new franchises. website, but no other information has The Kunlun Red Star were rolled been revealed. out with much fanfare back in June, Due to the expansion, the CWHL during a press conference held at season will be extended from 24 to the Hockey Hall of Fame. The team 30 regular season games. In order to will join the Kontinental Hockey include the new Chinese teams, each League’s franchise of the same CWHL franchise will venture overname, but will play in Shenzen. This seas for a three-game series. will allow the CWHL to not only Hovi expressed her excitement reach potential fans and players in about the expansion, albeit with some the Chinese market, but opens up apprehensions. greater sponsorship and broadcasting “Expansion is a good thing as opportunities for the league. long as they’re building something The second team, the Vanke Rays, that’s meant to last,” she said. “I do saw much less attention given to its wish that expansion was happening rollout. The CWHL did not make in Canada and North America and any formal announcement, but acci- really putting together a league with dentally tweeted about the team, only all the best players from the whole to delete the post soon after. world.”

The league has since issued a press For young players starting, or release announcing the appointment continuing, their professional careers of Shirley Hon as the team’s general with the Chinese franchises, Hovi

tapped into her own experiences as a transplant player to offer wisdom.

“For young players, I would advise them to enjoy this special chance they have and to have an open mind,” she said.

“Not just enjoying hockey but everything that a new culture can offer.”

The two new franchises will be mainly comprised of nationally derived talent, but will also include some North American players. A focus will be to grow Chinese talent in preparation for the 2022 Winter Olympics.

14

Sports

Sports Editor: Ryan Stelter Contact: sports@themanitoban.com

Bisons open 2017 season with a draw and a win Ryan Stelter, staff

Bisons celebrate opening goal by Sara Schur against the Saskatchewan Huskies on Saturday.

Manitoba won 3-2.

T

photo by jeff miller

his weekend, the University of Despite the lack of goals, there Manitoba Bisons women’s soc- were plenty of chances for both teams. cer team opened the 2017 season at The Cougars dominated the early home with a goalless draw against goings of the first half with plenty Regina Friday, and a 3-2 win over of ball possession. Bison goalkeeper Saskatchewan Saturday.

Justina Jarmoszko was up to the task, however, making several clearances.

Friday At the other end of the field, The Bisons and University of Regina ‘keeper Savannah Williams Regina Cougars opened their sea- was not to be outdone. In the middle sons on Friday with a scoreless draw. of the half, Bison midfielder Sara

Schur whipped in a hard cross, but “There are many things we need to kick from the halfway line.

Williams stymied her with an out- improve on, especially our final pass “I felt good today,” Wagner said. stretched hand. in the attacking third, we created lots “The ball is good, the wind is there A few minutes later, Bison mid- of chances but we need to put it in.” and I just tried it.” fielder Hailey Lavarias set up Florin The Huskies had a golden opporWagner on a counter attack, but Saturday tunity to tie the game when Kayla Wagner whiffed the shot and lifted Led by Wagner’s brace, the Ahenakew sent in a low cross to it over the crossbar.

Bisons handed the University of Taneil Gay, but Jarmoszko made a Wagner had another chance Saskatchewan Huskies their first diving goal-line save to retain the toward the end of the half when she loss in the 2017 season by a score of Bison lead. fired a high free kick from well out- 3-2 on Saturday.

Manitoba added insurance in the side the 18-yard box. Williams did It was a fast-paced and intense 84th minute when Wagner pounced well to track the ball and managed match, despite both teams having on a loose ball in the six-yard box to tip it over for a corner kick. played the night before. to make it 3-1. The Huskies pushed The Cougars came closest to scorWagner was buzzing during the late, adding a goal to narrow the gap, ing approximately halfway through first half, firing off a few shots, but but were unable to find the equalizer. the second half. Jarmoszko came out Saskatchewan goalkeeper Kyleigh Martinez Lagunas said she was to play the ball, but had it bounce over Vause was up to the task. proud of her team’s resiliency in the her and off the post.

In the 25th minute, Shur scored match.

“I love the attitude of our players In the 75th minute, Cougars mid- the first Bison goal of 2017. Schur got fielder Kirsten Finley was alone on on the end of a cross from Lavarius in that right away they answered,” goal, but had her shot sail over the net. to give the Bisons the lead. she said.

Both teams threw everything Saskatchewan drew level in the “We showed them that we don’t they had at each other and it was a 53rd minute via midfielder Megan give up and even if they get one we well-deserved draw, according to Ripplinger. Ripplinger beat out a can respond with two more.”

Bisons head coach Vanessa Martinez rushing Jarmoszko and tapped the Lagunas. ball into the far corner.

The Bisons head out West to play the “I think both teams played really The Bisons regained the lead just Victoria Vikes and UBC Okanagan on well, both teams were attacking from a couple minutes later when Wagner Sept. 15-16. one side to the other,” she said. scored her first of two points off a free

Costly turnovers haunt Manitoba in 32-18 loss against UBC Thunderbirds force four takeaways – including a pick -six – in the win Mike Still

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urnovers made the difference on Saturday, Sept. 9 in Vancouver, as the University of British Columbia (UBC) Thunderbirds recorded their first win of the season with a 32-18 victory over the now 0-2 Manitoba Bisons.

The game saw a combined total of seven takeaways, however it was the T-Birds who made the most of their chances, scoring 14 points off of four turnovers. Manitoba’s offence, on the other hand, was unable to score on any of the three turnovers that its defence produced.

The turning point in the match The other critical turnover for the occurred late in the first quarter, with UBC defence came early in the third quarter. The Thunderbirds had gone the game still tied at zero.

Manitoba linebacker James Mau into halftime up only 13-10, but had had just recovered a fumble in UBC scored a major on their opening drive territory, and the Bisons were getting of the second half to widen their lead ready to kick a field goal after stalling to 20-10.

The Bisons were looking to answer, offensively.

The snap sailed high over place- and yet again were deep in the holder Jayden McKoy’s head and Thunderbirds’ end, when Manitoba Manitoba came away with nothing. quarterback Theo Deezar threw a The T-Birds would go on to score a costly interception that was returned touchdown on the ensuing drive and for a touchdown by UBC defensive wouldn’t relinquish the lead for the lineman Elliot Graham.

Offensively, it was the run-game rest of the contest.

that played a major role in the victory that shifted the momentum firmly in for UBC. Ben Cummings was the UBC’s favour. standout player, carrying the ball 24 Mau led the Bisons defensively, times for 165 yards, with more than finishing with 9.5 tackles and two 90 of those yards coming in the first fumble recoveries. Offensively, half. Manitoba’s Jamel Lyles, on the Riley Harrison led all players other hand, was held to just 11 yards with 115 yards on eight catches, on 10 carries, and also left with an including a touchdown reception. undisclosed injury in the second half.

UBC's Michael O’Connor won The Bisons’ next game is Saturday, the battle of the pivots, going 20-of- Sept. 16 at 1 p.m., as they host the 30 for 237 yards, while also throwing University of Calgary Dinos. two touchdowns. Deezar threw for 326 yards and two scores on the day, but he also threw the costly pick-six

VOL. 104 NO. 5 September 13, 2017

Sports

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Converted rugby player Nick Thomas adjusting to life with the Bisons Rookie linebacker has caught on quickly to the other version of "football" Mike Still

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ou can forgive Bison football line- and they play at UBC and they backer Nick Thomas for being a haven’t gotten full rides or anything, late bloomer in the game of football. so I think football had a lot more fan For starters, he played rugby base and money that goes into their growing up and invested a signifi- programs.”

With that thought in mind, and cant amount of time in that sport.

Secondly, his high school in Surrey, entering Grade 12, Thomas decided B.C., didn’t even have a football to try his hand at the game for the program. very first time, making the 15-minute In fact, it’s safe to say that as the drive to Langley to play community years went on, strapping on the pads football for the Langley Stampeders. was nowhere near the top of his Not surprisingly, Thomas’s first thoughts. After all, he had quickly game had its fair share of hiccups, but become a high-level rugby player, he continued to train in his free time and was thinking he would continue to improve his game. to play for a men’s club team while “My first game of community attending a local university. football, I looked at that game and “It just never came across my mind I didn’t know what I was doing," he I guess. I was just playing rugby, hon- said. “I was just hitting people. I estly,” Thomas said. honestly knew there was a running But as the end of his high school back, I hit the running back, and I years began to creep closer, Thomas hit receivers. started to have second thoughts “During the end of the season I regarding his athletic future. He was really learning. I was watchknew he wanted to go to university, ing YouTube videos on how to read and the opportunities seemed larger offensive lines and how to read if he were to pursue football. quarterbacks.”

“The thing with rugby, there aren’t While the ins-and-outs of the as many scholarship opportunities,” game took a bit of time, the physiThomas said. “Guys that I’ve played cality was never an issue for Thomas. with, they’re on Team Canada now This is due in part to having been a

flanker in rugby, where one of his main goals was to tackle the opposition and try to steal the ball.

“They’re both aggressive sports, so the tackling transitioned for me because that’s what it’s like on defence,” he said.

At the end of his first season of community ball, Thomas was eager to see if he might be able to continue playing at the next level. But he didn’t have a highlight tape, so he simply fired off an email to Bison football head coach Brian Dobie. He never received a response.

His second season with the Stampeders produced entirely different results, as coaches and evaluators Dobie at spring camp in April and, were able to see just how hard-hitting while Dobie admitted that he was and aggressive he was on the field. “raw” and had “a lot to learn,” he was “After my second season, my coach also quick to praise the rugby star’s put together my highlight tape and upside.

I just sent it out to a few universi“He can run, and he’s physical,” ties and he sent it out to a few junior Dobie said. “His tackling is so good, football teams and coach Dobie got so to get him out on our field, rather back to me,” Thomas said. than just see him on film, that was The two started talking around pretty big.” the end of January, and Thomas For Thomas, the learning curve ultimately decided to commit to the from community football to the colBisons. legiate level was large at first, but now He saw his first action in front of that he’s had the time to adjust, he

Photo by mike still

says things are starting to slow down.

And ultimately, for him, the fundamental principles between rugby and football haven’t changed much at all.

“You’ve got to be the alpha out there,” he said. “You can’t be scared of anyone, you can’t be afraid to show that you’re [willing] to tackle anyone, so you really have to be that alpha dog when you’re playing.

“When I go out there, I’m going to tackle anyone.”

A Loser in week one? Patience, grasshopper Michael Bell

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ow was Week 1? I could be going out on a limb here, but your team probably won or lost. Or perhaps your match finished with the dreaded tie. Personally, I'm a big “hard no” on decimal scoring. It's just my bias, and it looks weird. But ties happen. If you lost, my condolences.

And if you did lose, it's not the end of the world. Which brings me to today's lesson.

key. Don't be a “set it and forget it” owner. Be actively engaged with your roster. The team you drafted may get you through some early weeks and even beyond. But talent gets stale and players pull hammies. You're building a champion; it takes time to build something, and in Week 1 you're just pouring the concrete.

On the flip side, if you destroyed your opponent in Week 1 then you have done well. Bask in the glory of that epic win. Feel free to trash-talk, especially if you're in a league of good Fantasy football is friends who enjoy that kind of colourful hyperbole. Do it by text message, a game of chess, face-to-face, or even over Snapchat – not checkers if Snapchat trash-talk is even a thing.

But I would be wary of smack-talking a newcomer to the league. The fan- Arizona Cardinal, and Buffalo Bill You lost. So what? tasy gods have a funny way of dealing beat LeGarrette Blount's 18 from You heard me. So what. Don't with hubris. Confidence is good, but last year? That's certainly possible. panic. Patience, grasshopper. Fantasy overconfidence may tip the balance of Bill Belichick doesn't care about your football is a game of chess, not check- fantasy karma against you. I believe fantasy team, but he does like finding ers - or Connect Four, for that matter. in fantasy karma. Perhaps my col- his goal line back. Gillislee may just It's about learning the art of the long leagues in the department of religion fit the bill. game. Take the Mayweather fight, and philosophy can debate the exisKareem Hunt had the most yards for example. “Money” Mayweather tence of fantasy gods. But we shall from scrimmage of any rookie RB in took a lot of shots early from Conor save that for another day. his first NFL game. He looks good.

McGregor, but won in the end If you have him on your fantasy because he was playing the patient, Eight astute observations team, you must feel like Leonardo long game. Remember, it's not where from Week 1 DiCaprio in Titanic. Cue up that king you start, it's where you finish.

Mike Gillislee is on pace to score of the world meme.

Many a fantasy championship has 48 Touchdowns. I have doubts he will What if I told you Alex Smith been won on the back-end of a season. achieve that number. But can this for- would throw more touchdowns Trades and waiver wire pickups are mer Florida Gator, Miami Dolphin, than Tom Brady in a head-to-head

graphic by kelly campbell

matchup? Would you believe me?

What if I told you the consensus number one and number two fantasy picks didn't score any TDs this week?

Would you drop them? Of course not. Fantasy football is a frustrating beast. Patience.

The Buffalo Bills are in first place in the AFC East. Just putting that out there.

The Houston Texans' offence is terrible. Just putting that out there.

Kenny Golladay, rookie WR for the Detroit Lions. Have him on waiver wire speed dial.

My “start any defence against Scott Tolzien and the Colts” strat-

egy is working. The Rams D feasted on this terrible backup QB. If you're not happy with your fantasy defence, try picking up – if available - the Cardinals' defence for next week and enjoy the potential bounty of riches.

In summary, it's important not to overreact to your early fantasy results. If you lost, it's not the end of the world. Patience. If you won, bask in it, but beware of karma. It's only Week 1. You're not sitting on the Iron Throne just yet. Week 2 comes pretty fast.

Dismissed.