The Prairie Football Conference’s Regina Thunder missed an opportunity to secure a home playoff game with a 36-11 loss to the Saskatoon Hilltops last week. While the Thunder came up short as a team, fourth-year running back Ryland Leichert established a new franchise record for career rushing yards.
The 21-year-old from Porcupine Plain, Saskatchewan, carried the ball 15 times for 88 yards in the setback. Those numbers allowed him to surpass the Thunder’s all-time career rushing record of 3,388 yards. In his four years with the Thunder, Leichert is averaging 6.2 yards per carry and racked up 22 touchdowns.
Leichert, who started football by playing the six-man game in rural Saskatchewan, also holds the Canadian Junior Football League’s single-game playoff rushing record. Leichert established that mark in 2022 when he ran for 390 yards in a PFC semi-final against Winnipeg, obliterating the previous mark held by future CFL running back Andrew Harris.
Leichert and the 5-2 Regina Thunder close out their regular season on Sunday with a crucial game against Calgary at Leibel Field. The Colts are 4-3 and the winner of the game hosts the loser in a PFC semi-final on Sunday, October 13.
Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. at Leibel Field. Prior to the game, the Thunder will recognize their graduating fifth-year players. An important tradition for Thunder head coach Scott MacAulay.
“Our final home game is always special as we take time to recognize the grit and determination and contributions of our graduating fifth-year players and their families.”
MacAuley noted the emotion from the ceremony, combined with the importance of the game, creates a great atmosphere.
“We are focused on winning this game and hosting a semi-final playoff game in front of our great fans.”
Tickets for Sunday’s contest are available at the gate.
