In this episode of Ticats Today, James Tuck discusses his transition from being a player to a coach in the CFL, sharing insights on the importance of special teams, his career journey, and the influences that shaped his approach to coaching. He emphasizes the value of commitment in special teams play and reflects on the mentorship he received from various coaches throughout his career.

Takeaways

• James Tuck transitioned from player to coach to stay involved in football.
• Coaching allows Tuck to share his extensive knowledge of the game.
• The importance of special teams is often underestimated in football.
• Commitment is essential for success in special teams play.
• Tuck's diverse experiences across multiple teams provide him with unique insights.
• Mentorship from coaches like Maas and O'Shea has significantly influenced Tuck.
• Tuck believes that being a former player helps in building rapport with current players.
• The role of special teams is crucial in determining field position and game outcomes.
• Tuck is focused on learning and adapting to his new coaching role.
• Communication with his coaching staff will be key to success.

Chapters

00:00 - Transitioning from Player to Coach

03:11 - The Importance of Special Teams

05:57 - Career Journey and Adaptability

08:54 - Influences and Mentorship in Football

We can create flexible packages to accommodate your calendar and budget.

Get your tickets here:

https://www.ticats.ca/tickets

Or call 905-547-2287

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 of Ticats Today, host Steve Milton interviews Tom Flaxman, the new director of national scouting for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. They discuss the upcoming CFL Combine, the importance of player evaluations, and the strategies behind the CFL draft. Flaxman shares insights on what scouts look for in players, the significance of special teams, and how university programs contribute to player development. The conversation highlights the depth of the 2025 draft class and the Ticats' approach to building a competitive roster.

Takeaways

• Tom Flaxman has been actively scouting players across various combines and pro days.
• The CFL Combine is crucial for evaluating player performance and character.
• Scouts look for athletes who take the combine seriously, reflecting their work ethic.
• Interviews at the combine help assess a player's fit within the team culture.
• Players can significantly increase or decrease their draft stock during the combine.
• The Ticats have a clear strategy for the upcoming draft, focusing on talent and team needs.
• The 2025 draft class is considered deep, with strengths in multiple positions.
• Special teams play a vital role in the game, and evaluating players for these roles is essential.
• University programs with strong resources tend to produce more CFL prospects.
• Building a team requires finding great players who are also great teammates.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Tom Flaxman and CFL Scouting

02:48 - The Importance of the CFL Combine

06:00 - Evaluating Players: Draft Stock and Interviews

09:03 - Draft Strategy and Team Needs

11:51 - Strengths of the 2025 Draft Class

14:45 - Special Teams and Player Evaluation

17:48 - The Role of University Programs in Player Development

We can create flexible packages to accommodate your calendar and budget.

Get your tickets here:

https://www.ticats.ca/tickets

Or call 905-547-2287

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 of Ticats Today, host Steve Milton discusses the changes in the Ticats coaching staff with head coach Scott Milanovich. They explore the returning coaches, their roles, and the impact of new additions to the staff. The conversation delves into the strategies for both offense and defense, the importance of special teams, and the overall dynamics of the coaching team as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Takeaways

• A lot of change within the organization is necessary for improvement.
• Continuity in coaching staff reflects the offense's success.
• Coaches need to be able to rely on each other during busy times.
• Players respect coaches who have played the game at a high level.
• Quality control coaches play a crucial role in game preparation.
• Special teams require a dynamic personality to motivate players.
• Young coaches bring fresh ideas and perspectives to the team.
• Defensive strategies are evolving with new coaching talent.
• Coaching transitions can be challenging but rewarding for players.
• The mix of experience and youth in the coaching staff is beneficial.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Coaching Changes

03:01 - Returning Coaches and Their Impact

05:54 - New Additions to the Coaching Staff

09:07 - Defensive Strategies and New Coordinators

12:00 - Special Teams and Player Development

15:14 - Overall Staff Dynamics and Future Goals

We can create flexible packages to accommodate your calendar and budget.

Get your tickets here:

https://www.ticats.ca/tickets

Or call 905-547-2287

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 of Morreale and Hitch, the hosts welcome former CFL player Dave Stala, who shares his journey from a high school athlete in Hamilton to a successful 13-year career in the Canadian Football League. The conversation covers Stala's early influences, his experiences playing for teams like Montreal and Hamilton, and the evolution of receiver gloves in the sport. The hosts reminisce about their shared history and the changes in the game over the years, highlighting the toughness required to succeed as a receiver. They reflect on the evolution of coaching styles in football and share personal anecdotes from their careers, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and community support.

Takeaways

• Dave Stala reflects on his long-standing friendship with the hosts.
• Stala discusses the evolution of football gear, particularly gloves.
• He shares anecdotes from his high school days and early football experiences.
• The importance of mentorship and guidance in shaping young athletes is emphasized.
• The episode concludes with reflections on the current state of football and its future. Toughness is essential for receivers in football.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Guest Welcome

03:05 - Dave Stala's Football Journey

06:01 - The Evolution of Receiver Gloves

08:56 - High School and Early Career

11:55 - Playing in the CFL and Career Highlights

14:58 - Reflections on the Game and Its Changes

16:10 - Influences and Inspirations in Football

18:31 - The Art of Catching and Trusting Your Quarterback

20:55 - Respecting the Game and Its Players

22:46 - The Experience of Playing in Hamilton

24:43 - Career Highlights and Grey Cup Memories

27:58 - Building a Business in Hamilton

30:51 - The Importance of Hiring Athletes

32:16 - Reflections and Wrap-up

We can create flexible packages to accommodate your calendar and budget.

Get your tickets here:

https://www.ticats.ca/tickets

Or call 905-547-2287

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 of Ticats Today, host Steve Milton interviews DaShaun Amos, recently-signed defensive back for the Hamilton Tiger Cats. They discuss DaShaun's impressive career, including his achievements in the CFL, his journey from high school to professional football, and the importance of football IQ. DaShaun shares insights on why he chose the Tiger Cats, the challenges of playing defensive back in a competitive league, and the significance of turnovers in games. The conversation also touches on DaShaun's athletic background, training, and the supportive role of his family and community throughout his career.

Takeaways

• DaShaun Amos is excited to join the Hamilton Tiger Cats.
• His football IQ is crucial for success on the field.
• The Tiger Cats organization exemplifies professionalism.
• Playing defensive back is a challenging position.
• The East division has become very competitive in the CFL.
• Turnovers significantly increase a team's chances of winning.
• DaShaun was a late bloomer in his athletic career.
• His upbringing kept him busy and out of trouble.
• A love for sports was instilled in him from a young age.
• Community support is vital for athletes.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Deshaun Amos

02:36 - Deshaun's Journey and Achievements

04:00 - The Importance of Football IQ

05:44 - Choosing the Tiger Cats

07:47 - The Challenges of Playing Defensive Back

10:16 - Facing Strong Competition in the East

12:03 - The Impact of Turnovers

14:44 - Athletic Background and Training

17:01 - High School and Early Career

19:32 - Community and Closing Remarks

We can create flexible packages to accommodate your calendar and budget.

Get your tickets here:

https://www.ticats.ca/tickets

Or call 905-547-2287

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 of Ticats Today, host Steve Milton interviews Johnny Augustine, a multi-talented running back who recently joined the Hamilton Tiger Cats. They discuss Augustine's journey from playing in Winnipeg to returning to his roots in Hamilton, his career highlights, and the importance of accepting roles within a team. Augustine shares insights into his playing style, his athletic background, and the challenges he faced in his career, including the disappointment of not being drafted. He also touches on his ventures in real estate and how he applies lessons from football to his life outside the sport.

Takeaways

• Johnny Augustine feels a strong connection to Hamilton.
• He emphasizes the importance of winning over personal accolades.
• Augustine takes pride in understanding offensive philosophy.
• He started playing football later than most athletes.
• His martial arts background influences his approach to football.
• Augustine values the finer details of his role as a running back.
• He faced challenges after not being drafted but remained determined.
• Augustine's transition to Hamilton feels seamless due to familiarity.
• He believes in inspiring the younger generation of players.
• Real estate is a passion for Augustine, linking it to his sports career.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Johnny Augustine and the Tiger Cats

03:02 - Johnny's Journey and Transition to Hamilton

05:47 - Career Highlights and Role Acceptance

08:58 - Playing Style and Contributions to the Team

12:04 - Athletic Background and Early Influences

15:04 - Challenges and Triumphs in His Career

17:58 - Real Estate Ventures and Life Beyond Football

We can create flexible packages to accommodate your calendar and budget.

Get your tickets here:

https://www.ticats.ca/tickets

Or call 905-547-2287

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 of Ticats Today, host Steve Milton welcomes back Julian Howsare, a veteran defensive end for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. They discuss his return to the team, his leadership role, the importance of continuity in the coaching staff, and the dynamics of the defensive line. Howsare shares insights on his versatility as a player, his journey to the CFL, and his personal experiences living in Hamilton. The conversation highlights the significance of experience and teamwork in achieving success on the field.

Takeaways

• Julian Howsare's return to Hamilton is welcomed by fans and teammates.
• Veteran leadership is crucial for a younger team.
• Howsare prefers to lead by example rather than being vocal.
• Continuity in coaching staff aids player development.
• New players can bring fresh perspectives to the team.
• Experience in the CFL helps players adapt to new systems.
• Versatility is a key asset for Howsare on the field.
• Howsare's journey from college football to the CFL is inspiring.
• Living in Hamilton has been a positive experience for Howsare.
• Connections from hometown Altoona enrich Howsare's story.

Chapters

00:00 - Welcome Back to the Hammer

02:59 - The Importance of Leadership and Experience

05:54 - Continuity and Team Dynamics

09:00 - Building a Strong Defensive Line

12:06 - Versatility on the Field

15:10 - Journey to the CFL

17:59 - Altoona Connections and Personal Life

We can create flexible packages to accommodate your calendar and budget.

Get your tickets here:

https://www.ticats.ca/tickets

Or call 905-547-2287

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 of Ticats Today, Brian Cole II shares his journey from high school football in Saginaw, Michigan, to becoming a linebacker for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the CFL. He discusses his experiences with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, the importance of special teams, and the impact of his time at East Mississippi Community College, especially during the filming of 'Last Chance U'. Cole emphasizes the significance of team dynamics, winning culture, and the opportunities that have shaped his career.

Takeaways

• Brian Cole II expresses gratitude for his opportunities in football.
• He acknowledges the business aspect of professional sports.
• Winning teams foster respect and camaraderie among players.
• Special teams play a crucial role in football success.
• Cole believes he can still contribute as an offensive player.
• His journey reflects a strong mentality and resilience.
• The culture in Hamilton is conducive to winning.
• He learned valuable lessons about media and negativity during 'Last Chance U'.
• Cole's early experiences in high school shaped his development as a player.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Brian Cole II

01:59 - Transitioning to the Tiger-Cats

04:05 - Winning Culture and Team Dynamics

05:58 - Journey Through College Football

10:01 - The Impact of Last Chance U

13:58 - Special Teams and Its Importance

16:02 - Career Progression and Opportunities

19:55 - High School and Early Development

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