Argos get a new practise facility

The Tiger-Cats know what it’s like to be homeless. But it’s fair to say the Ticats never experienced anything like what the Toronto Argos have gone through this season.

The Toronto Argonauts started a brand new week of practise on a brand new field at Downsview Park. The new facility is clearly a welcomed site for players and coaches.

Argos Defensive Back Matt Black: “Were excited about this place and ready to call it home and get settled in and unpack and all that stuff. There’s been a lot of moving around this off-season so it’s good to put that to bed.”

Argos Coach Scott Milanovich: “It’s nice to be able to come out of meeting rooms and walk around the field and saves us 45 minutes or an hour each day in transition time.”

This is the team’s fourth different practise field this season, having also spent time at York University, Rogers Centre, and Hershey Centre in Mississauga — not exactly an ideal situation.

Argos Centre Jeff Keeping: “Guys want to come in watch film, do their workouts, do whatever it is. Each guy is different on how they want to prepare. But knowing where you’re at, come into the same spot, do your therapy, whatever it is.”

Argos Quarterback Ricky Ray: “When you have to travel off-site, it takes time out of your four and a half hour day. When you have to bus 20 minutes to a practise facility and bus 20 minutes back, that’s 40 minutes. That cuts into the time of preparation that you have.

Now that the Argos have themselves a permanent practise facility, they’re hoping to find some stability in the standings starting this Saturday at Calgary. Toronto will be trying to avoid a fourth straight setback — and in the process, avenge a week 3 loss versus the Stampeders.