In this episode of Ticats Today, Tom Flaxman, the new national scout for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, discusses his background in football, the importance of relationships in scouting, and his transition from coaching to scouting. He reflects on his experiences with various teams, including McMaster, and shares insights on the upcoming CFL draft and the scouting process.

Takeaways

• Tom Flaxman is focused on Canadian talent for the CFL draft.
• Building relationships is crucial in the football community.
• The transition from coaching to scouting involves new challenges.
• Reflecting on the 2003 McMaster team highlights the importance of teamwork.
• Coaching experiences shape scouting perspectives.
• Understanding player mentality is key in evaluating talent.
• The CFL draft is a culmination of extensive scouting work.
• Tom's passion for football drives his commitment to the role.
• Networking with coaches is essential for scouting success.
• The role of a national scout is integral to team success.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Tom Flaxman and His Role

02:57 - Understanding the Role of a National Scout

06:00 - Building Relationships in Football

08:49 - Transitioning from Coaching to Scouting

12:01 - Reflecting on the '03 McMaster Team

15:12 - Coaching Journey and Experiences

17:58 - The Importance of Relationships in Scouting

21:01 - Preparing for the CFL Draft

23:20 - Conclusion and Future Outlook

The Ticats Audio Network provides Hamilton Tiger-Cats fans with the most comprehensive, entertaining and informative news and information about their favourite football team. Featuring Steve Milton, RJ Broadhead, Luke Tasker, Mike Daly, Bubba O’Neil, Courtney Stephen, Simoni Lawrence, Mike Morreale, Rob Hitchcock, Brian Simmons, Louie Butko, Ticats players, coaches and front office personnel, other Canadian Football League experts and many more. Regular shows include Ticats Today, Ticats This Week, Tiger-Cats Game Day, Tiger-Cats Pregame, Tiger-Cats At The Half, Tiger-Cats Postgame, Speaking With The Enemy, Morreale & Hitch, CFL This Week, and so much more. Ticats Audio Network content can be found on the Tiger-Cats YouTube channel, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, at listen.ticats.ca and anywhere else you find podcasts. Please follow, like, leave a review wherever you find our content, and follow the Hamilton Tiger-Cats social media channels to keep up to date with all Ticats Audio Network content.
Twitter: @Ticats
Insta: @hamiltontigercats
TikTok: @hamiltonticats
Facebook: cfltigercats
YouTube: ticatstvchannel

The Hamilton Tiger-Cats' 2025 CFL schedule is out! Join Steve Milton and the legendary Simoni Lawrence, as they break down the season's key matchups, home games, and rivalries. They discuss how the Ticats can set the tone early with a strong preseason and the importance of hitting the ground running. From the challenging opener in Calgary to the iconic Labour Day Classic, they discuss the team’s opportunities and hurdles. This episode features predictions, insights into the roster and coaching staff changes, and what fans can expect as the Ticats aim for a bounce-back year.

Takeaways:

• The season kicks off against Calgary on June 7
• Preseason games against the Argos will be crucial for the team’s new defensive coordinator and revamped roster.
• Early home games, including the opener against Saskatchewan, are must-wins to capitalize on home-field advantage and set the tone for the season.
• Key midseason matchups against Edmonton and BC will highlight which teams have built the best rosters under new management.
• The Labour Day Classic remains a highlight of the schedule, offering a prime afternoon slot for fans to rally against the Argos.
• Simoni emphasizes the importance of going undefeated at home and using the “Ten-Game Flex” ticket package for optimal game attendance.
• The back half of the season features challenging stretches, with a mix of home games and pivotal Eastern matchups against Montreal and Ottawa.

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction
06:00 - Preseason Expectations
10:00 - Key Home Games to Watch
15:00 - Midseason Breakthrough
20:00 - The Labour Day Classic
25:00 - Wrapping Up the Schedule
28:00 - Closing Thoughts

Get your tickets now for the 2025 Hamilton Tiger-Cats season! Take advantage of the Ten-Game Flex package to attend the games of your choice or secure season tickets for the ultimate Ticats experience. Visit ticats.ca/tickets to grab yours today.

The Ticats Audio Network provides Hamilton Tiger-Cats fans with the most comprehensive, entertaining and informative news and information about their favourite football team. Featuring Steve Milton, RJ Broadhead, Luke Tasker, Mike Daly, Bubba O’Neil, Courtney Stephen, Simoni Lawrence, Mike Morreale, Rob Hitchcock, Brian Simmons, Louie Butko, Ticats players, coaches and front office personnel, other Canadian Football League experts and many more. Regular shows include Ticats Today, Ticats This Week, Tiger-Cats Game Day, Tiger-Cats Pregame, Tiger-Cats At The Half, Tiger-Cats Postgame, Speaking With The Enemy, Morreale & Hitch, CFL This Week, and so much more. Ticats Audio Network content can be found on the Tiger-Cats YouTube channel, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, at listen.ticats.ca and anywhere else you find podcasts. Please follow, like, leave a review wherever you find our content, and follow the Hamilton Tiger-Cats social media channels to keep up to date with all Ticats Audio Network content.
Twitter: @Ticats
Insta: @hamiltontigercats
TikTok: @hamiltonticats
Facebook: cfltigercats
YouTube: ticatstvchannel

In this episode - taken from a live Q&A with media - Hamilton Tiger-Cats General Manager Ted Goveia and Head Coach Scott Milanovich discuss key off-season priorities, coaching changes, and player development. They address the challenges of continuity, free agency strategies, and their vision for the team's future. With insights into quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell's resurgence and plans for the upcoming season, this is a must-listen for fans looking to understand the Tiger-Cats' roadmap to success.


Takeaways

• Chris Jones departed; Brent Monson hired as defensive coordinator.
• Defensive strategy will adapt to new coaching style and team personnel.
• Familiarity with players improves decision-making and collaboration.
• Bo Levi Mitchell is the unquestioned starter for 2025; continued growth expected.
• Re-signing key free agents like David Beard is a priority.
• Free agency preparation involves a flexible wish list monitored daily.
• Team-building focuses on cohesion and fair compensation over "mercenaries."
• Strong GM-coach relationship emphasizes collaboration and shared goals.
• Coaching staff finalization expected within two weeks.
• Long-term vision is to win the Grey Cup while managing pressure effectively.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction

00:26 - Coaching changes

03:35 - Free agency priorities

04:42 - Bo Levi Mitchell

07:16 - GM-coach collaboration and recruitment strategy

11:21 - Adapting schemes

15:04 - Maintaining team focus

18:27 - Final thoughts

The Ticats Audio Network provides Hamilton Tiger-Cats fans with the most comprehensive, entertaining and informative news and information about their favourite football team. Featuring Steve Milton, RJ Broadhead, Luke Tasker, Mike Daly, Bubba O’Neil, Courtney Stephen, Simoni Lawrence, Mike Morreale, Rob Hitchcock, Brian Simmons, Louie Butko, Ticats players, coaches and front office personnel, other Canadian Football League experts and many more. Regular shows include Ticats Today, Ticats This Week, Tiger-Cats Game Day, Tiger-Cats Pregame, Tiger-Cats At The Half, Tiger-Cats Postgame, Speaking With The Enemy, Morreale & Hitch, CFL This Week, and so much more. Ticats Audio Network content can be found on the Tiger-Cats YouTube channel, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, at listen.ticats.ca and anywhere else you find podcasts. Please follow, like, leave a review wherever you find our content, and follow the Hamilton Tiger-Cats social media channels to keep up to date with all Ticats Audio Network content.
Twitter: @Ticats
Insta: @hamiltontigercats
TikTok: @hamiltonticats
Facebook: cfltigercats
YouTube: ticatstvchannel