Austin returning to Regina

There are going to be hundreds of storylines for the 101st Grey Cup, and one of the intriguing will be the return of Kent Austin to Regina. The Tiger-Cats Head Coach won a Grey Cup with the Riders as a player and a head coach, and now he’s going to the Cup in his first season with the Ticats. Monday, less than 24 hours after beating the Argos in the east final, Austin did some reflecting on his past, and some peering into the future. Natalie Marconi has the details.

When the Ticats secured their place in the the 101st Grey Cup, it also ensured an emotional home-coming for Kent Austin.

“We have a lot of personal friends there, not just on the football side, but as a family. I know we’re the enemy this week, but that’s okay.”

Ticats fans haven’t forgotten the 1989 Grey Cup, arguably the most exciting championship ever played. Austin racked-up 474 passing yards in the Rider’s 43-40 victory over Hamilton, and he was also named the game’s MVP.

As a coach in 2007, Austin helped the riders to a 23-19 win over the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Ending an 18-year Grey Cup drought in Saskatchewan. Throughout his career, Austin has won four Grey Cup rings; two as a player and two as a coach.

Monday, he was still riding-high from the Ticat’s eastern final victory over the Argos, but he was hesitant to reminisce about the Ticat’s most recent games against Saskatchewan.

“Well, we were a different team back then too. Some guys aren’t on our team anymore. We stay consistent with our message. Focus on what’s under your control, that directs your performance.”

Wise words from a four-time Grey Cup champion, who’s looking for a fifth.