It’s my Parting Shot for my reactions to the headlines in today’s Star-Phoenix Sports Section…..

First headline…Riders return from bye week with veteran reinforcements, Ouellette and Schaffer-Baker back at practice and raring to go against the Lions in B-C. My reaction…Yes, this is encouraging and better for Saskatchewan to have A-J Ouellette back at running back and Kian Schaffer-Baker back as a reliable pass catching option for Trevor Harris. Add in likely having the sixth offensive lineman, better known as a fullback-slash-tight end, from off the six-game injured list in Albert Awachie plus former USask star Daniel Wiebe to catch passes when need be or return kicks when need be and starting Will linebacker, along with former B-C Lion Josh Woods to help on defence and the Roughriders will be more formidable – but will that be enough to beat the surging Leos in an all-important game that will determine direction for the rest of the 2026 season for the Green and White? And, while I know that defensive halfback Rolan Milligan Junior is likely done for the season, I’d feel better about the Riders’ chances the rest of the way if they could get receiver Samuel Emilus and cornerback Tevaughn Campbell to return! Can I get an answer as to what is up with Campbell and will he return this year – or is he in the same situation as Milligan?! Inquiring minds need to know!!

Next headline…Croc habitat gets green light for 2032 Olympic rowing. Reaction…The 2032 Olympics in Brisbane, Australia, will take place on a river that is home to crocodiles?! Incredible! Is the International Olympic Committee and the World Rowing and Paddle Worldwide group trying to insure that the sport is removed from future Games?! This has disaster written all over it – unless, is there any chance that Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin can be convinced to represent the U-S and Russia, respectively, in rowing events in 2032?!

Last headline…M-M-A fighters want to compete at Olympics, Debut at Asian Games a big step for sport, federation head says. My reaction…hey, why not M-M-A in the Olympics?! If you can have boxing and rowing in a river infested with crocodiles, why not amp up the violent content for the Olympics?! Yes, I am dripping with sarcasm!!

That’s my Parting Shot. I’m Les Lazaruk…and it turned out nice again!