Day 11 training camp notebook
Trois-Rivières, May 24, 2023 – Since the beginning of training camp, many people have noticed that running back William Stanback is thinner and seems more agile when running on the field. It’s true that Stanback has dropped about 10 pounds, but according to Tyrell Sutton, the running backs coach, the fact that he is running well has nothing to do with his weight loss.
“William has always been dominant and in great shape, he can break tackles, continue his routes, he is a real tank. Physically he’s lighter but he’s the same player and has the same physical attributes,” says Sutton. “The weight loss probably gives him more confidence and mentally he is better equipped to succeed. He has a renewed confidence when he’s on the field.”
Stanback is clearly having a lot of fun in Trois-Rivières.
“I love being on a field and showing my abilities. I am very happy with my camp so far. I’ve worked hard in the gym this winter and I’m seeing the results,” he said.
The 28-year-old is working with teammates Jeshrun Antwi and Walter Fletcher, and according to Sutton, the chemistry between the three players is great.
“Yes there is some competition and that’s only natural, but they are all working in the same direction and helping each other to make the team successful,” Sutton said. “That’s what I want to see in my group.”
Stanback is operating as the general in the backfield this year, as he’s leading by example.
“He was one of the most dominant players in 2021, and last year he was unable to show his true value due to injury,” Sutton said. “There’s no doubt he wants to get back to the level he was at in 2021. He has been watching his diet and has been consistent in the gym. The 2023 season is looking very promising for him.”
Sutton has a smile on his face
Sutton is a happy man. He joined the Alouettes in the off-season as the running backs coach. The former athlete, who played six seasons with the Alouettes and a few games in BC and Hamilton has finally come home.
“I loved wearing this uniform,” the 36-year-old said. “The atmosphere of the games in Montreal and the applause of the fans made me feel good during my career. Coming back with the Alouettes was kind of a dream come true.”
A native of Akron, OH, Sutton is married to a Quebecer and he lives in the Villeray borough of Montreal. The city has become his adopted home.
“Montreal is the place I have stayed the longest in my career,” he explained. “I feel at home here with my family. We especially enjoy the restaurants and cafes in town.”
After four years at Northwestern University, two years in the NFL with the Carolina Panthers, and one year in Sacramento in the UFL, he arrived in Montreal with the Alouettes. Since then, he has really embraced the culture. He has taken French classes and he has become fluent enough to have a conversation with friends and colleagues.
“It was important for me to do that,” he said. “I live here now, my wife and kids speak French, I wanted to set an example and I love Montreal. I feel at home here, and I’m proud to be able to speak French.”
OUR LADY PEACE
What a show we have planned for you during our VIDEOTRON home opener on Saturday June 10!
OUR LADY PEACE will be performing some of their greatest hits like ‘Superman is dead’ & ‘Starseed’. OUR LADY PEACE have released 10 albums and they have been performing for more than 30 years!
So come check out our first home game of the season and enjoy an incredible halftime show!
Below is the schedule for the 2023 training camp presented by the Salon de jeux de Trois-Rivières:
Thursday, May 25
11:30 AM – Walkthrough at Stade Diablos
Friday, May 26
7:30 PM – The Montreal Alouettes visit the Ottawa REDBLACKS at TD Place
**Schedule subject to change. Please consult the team’s website and social media pages to be informed of changes.
