It’s a special moment for Taz Smith-Windsor as the Carlton Crusaders eldest has committed to the University of Saskatchewan football program.
The 12th-year cornerback says the Huskies team vibe is what got him involved.
“The U of S is a great program. They finished second in the nation. I can stay a little closer to home, which is good, see my family a little more. It’s a very good environment. I attended some of the practices. Energy is high, camaraderie is a big thing. I think it’s the best place I can be.
Smith-Windsor spent time with the Saskatchewan Selects in Moose Jaw, northern Saskatchewan. Academy in Saskatoon and played for the Carlton Crusaders during his high school career.
Throughout his senior season, Smith-Windsor worked hard on the mental side of his game to prepare for the college level. Taz says he has to focus on the task at hand to be successful.
“Just the mental discipline really. Focus on my job and do it well. I just try not to overdo it on the pitch and rely on my teammates. It’s something I’ve been working on with this team and it’s going well because we have a lot of good players.
The University of Saskatchewan was far from the only school interested in the Carlton senior. Smith-Windsor says the U of S was at the top of its list from the start, but it was humbling to hear from other schools.
“There were a handful of other offers. It was nice to get interest from other schools. At the end of the day, U of S was my number one and it still is.
Smith-Windsor says he has received offers from the University of Regina Rams, University of Toronto Varsity Blues and Queen’s University Gaels, among others.
