Saskatoon Hilltops still feel the sting of their defeat in the 2024 conference final as they gear up for the 2025 season
Saskatoon Hilltops Set Sights on Redemption in 2025 Season
The Saskatoon Hilltops, a storied team in the Canadian Junior Football League (CJFL), are gearing up for a fresh start in the 2025 season. After a tough defeat in the championship game last year, the team is determined to learn from their mistakes and make a strong comeback.
Johnathon Stevens, a two-time Prairie Football Conference (PFC) all-star and veteran defensive lineman for the Hilltops, has emphasized the importance of growth for the team. His training with the Saskatchewan Roughriders has had a significant positive impact on the Hilltops' 2025 season, particularly on their defensive unit.
During his time with the Roughriders, Stevens gained professional-level technical skills and experience that he is now passing on to his teammates. Coach Tom Sargeant has highlighted Stevens as a critical defensive leader who sets the tone for the team and helps develop younger players with his pro-level knowledge.
The Hilltops will start their 2025 season on Sunday, facing the Winnipeg Rifles. The team will be relatively young this season, with nine players graduating from last year’s roster, including quarterback Trey Reider. Stevens' presence provides veteran leadership and a competitive mentality that boosts the team's defensive effectiveness as they pursue a championship this year.
Tom Sargeant wants the Hilltops to be the most physical team and to focus on blocking and tackling to improve their running game. Stevens aims to share the lessons he learned from his experience with the Roughriders with his teammates, with the hope that this knowledge will translate into enhanced defensive capabilities and improved performance in the 2025 season.
Backup quarterback Brexton Elias has been waiting for four seasons for a starter's role and is now getting his opportunity. The Hilltops' goal is to complete the mission and claim a 24th national title.
Last October, the Hilltops suffered their first loss in almost two years, ending their streak of 21 consecutive victories in the PFC final. The team's loss in the championship game was due to their inability to stop the run, which has been a focus of training camp. Stevens will lead the Hilltops' defense in the upcoming season, being named a second-team All-Canadian at his position.
The Hilltops' home opener will be against the Edmonton Huskies on Aug. 17. Johnathon Stevens considers his experience with the Roughriders as a highlight of his football career. The Saskatoon Hilltops are ready to take on the challenges of the 2025 season and are determined to make it a season to remember.
Johnathon Stevens, a key player for the Saskatoon Hilltops, has emphasized the importance of honing their defensive skills, particularly in football, as they aim to learn from their mistakes and make a strong comeback in the 2025 season. During his training with the Saskatchewan Roughriders, Stevens has gained professional-level technical skills and experience that he intends to share with his teammates, with the hope that this knowledge will translate into enhanced defensive capabilities and improved performance in sports.
