As the Thursday practice session wrapped up, Kent Maugeri, the special teams coordinator for the Saskatchewan Roughriders, was actively moving around the field. Maugeri is responsible for managing the kicking and return aspects of the team, which involve a significant portion of the roster.
Reflecting on his role, Maugeri emphasized his focus on being a top-notch teacher and guiding the players towards success. He highlighted the importance of setting high standards while providing the necessary tools for the players to excel on the field.
During games, Maugeri stays in communication with head coach Corey Mace to make crucial decisions. Mace praised the dedication of the players who contribute to special teams, whether they are dedicated special team members or starters from the offense or defense stepping up to support their teammates.
Maugeri has been with the Roughriders since 2016 and is the longest-tenured member of the coaching staff. Initially hired as an offensive assistant by Chris Jones from Lindenwood University in Missouri, Maugeri was later promoted by former coach Craig Dickenson to lead the special teams in 2022.
Having experienced coaching changes over the years, Maugeri has earned admiration from his current boss, Mace, who described him as an exceptional individual with a great coaching style that reflects in the special teams’ performance.
When asked about the unique nature of his unit compared to the offense and defense, Maugeri emphasized the distinctiveness of the special teams, referring to them as “junkyard dogs.” He highlighted the unit’s emphasis on speed, physicality, and intense contact.
Following Rider victories, Maugeri presents a standout special teams performer with a chain in the locker room, reminiscent of the professional wrestler Junkyard Dog from the 1980s. As the Riders gear up to face the Montreal Alouettes in the Grey Cup, Maugeri hopes to award the chain to a victorious special teams player on Sunday night.