The Calgary Stampeders are back on the field, getting ready to take on the Edmonton Elks in the Labour Day Classic. Defensive back Zy Alexander is heading into his first Battle of Alberta. He didn’t make his first start with the Stamps until the fourth game of the season. But from Game 1, Alexander has made an impact. In nine games this season, he has four interceptions. The Louisiana native says he likes the CFL game. “It’s a lot different from down south—a bigger field and a lot of passing, and I’m a [defensive back], so I kind of like that,” he said. Alexander was a cornerback in college, but the Stamps needed someone to play the inside. That’s when he got the call, and he hasn’t looked back since. The coaching staff has been impressed with the rookie and believes he can get even better. “You need to grow and fulfill your dreams and aspirations of just being the best player you can, and if you build it on that, everything will work out,” said Barron Miles, defensive back coach. “I’m still learning a few things, but I’ve got coaches and guys in the room helping me along the way,” Alexander said. The highlight interception for Alexander was against Toronto—a one-handed grab. He played baseball in high school and won a state championship. He believes baseball has helped him become a better football player. “Down south, I played outfield, so being able to track the ball and being able to hop on the ball. That’s what baseball really helped me with,” he said. “I had no intention of going one-hand, but when I’m in the air, I don’t think about it—I just go and get the ball.”
