The Canadian Football League is adding a little extra shine to the offseason, and Saskatchewan Roughriders fans have plenty of reason to pay attention.
To officially close out 2025 and launch the 2026 campaign, the league is rolling out a new signature evening: the Coach of the Year Celebration, set for March 25 at the Westin Edmonton. And front and centre will be Riders bench boss Corey Mace, named a finalist for CFL Coach of the Year for the second straight season.
The night ties directly into the 2026 CFL Combine, set for March 27–29 in Edmonton. It will bring together coaches, executives, and football supporters to celebrate leadership from the CFL level through grassroots programs.
The evening kicks off with a 6 p.m. reception before a three-course dinner and awards program at 7 p.m. Proceeds from the event, including a silent auction, will support amateur football initiatives through Football Alberta.
The headline for Rider Nation is simple: Corey Mace is once again among the CFL’s elite.
In just his second season guiding the Green and White, Mace led the Roughriders to a CFL-best 12–6 record and the franchise’s ninth West Division title. His team topped the league in points allowed (22.7 per game) and rushing yards allowed (76.0), while ranking second in total offence at 382.6 yards per outing.
On the other side of the finalist list is Jason Maas, who guided the Montreal Alouettes to a 10–8 record and a fourth straight playoff berth despite cycling through four starting quarterbacks. Maas, the 2024 winner, oversaw a defence that led the CFL in multiple categories, including fewest net yards allowed.
The March 25 event will also feature two additional honours:
Hugh Campbell Distinguished Leadership Award
Presented since 2006, the award recognizes individuals who have made a profound and lasting impact on Canadian football. Past winners include icons such as
- Wally Buono
- Norman Kwong
- Bob Ackles
- John Hufnagel (2024 recipient)
New: Ted Goveia Football Operations Award
Introduced this year, the award honours the late Ted Goveia, who passed away in 2025 and left a remarkable legacy across junior, university, and professional football. Known for his time as General Manager of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, Goveia also contributed to Grey Cup-winning teams in Toronto (2012) and Winnipeg (2019, 2021).
The annual award will honour excellence in scouting, player identification, roster construction, and leadership within CFL football operations departments.
In partnership with the Edmonton Elks, Football Alberta will also highlight Alberta coaches who are shaping the next wave of football and cheer athletes. Nominations across multiple categories are now open.
