When the Saskatchewan Roughriders face the Edmonton Elks on Thursday night, Kerfalla Exumé will hit a milestone few could have predicted on draft day. The veteran defensive back is set to play in his 100th CFL game, a remarkable achievement for a player who was selected 70th overall in the 2019 CFL Draft.
When the Saskatchewan Roughriders face the Edmonton Elks on Thursday night, Kerfalla Exumé will hit a milestone few could have predicted on draft day. The veteran defensive back is set to play in his 100th CFL game, a remarkable achievement for a player who was selected 70th overall in the 2019 CFL Draft.
For Exumé, the milestone is less about individual recognition and more about staying true to the approach that has carried him through six seasons in the league.
“It means keep on playing selflessly, playing for the team and just going out there and doing what I’ve been doing from the beginning,” Exumé told SportsCage.
When reminded of how late his name was called on draft day, Exumé admitted he never imagined reaching the century mark.
“No, when I got drafted, not at all. All I was worried about was making the team. It’s a great accomplishment. I’m proud of where I’ve been, and there’s a lot of people to thank for being where I am right now. It’s just about giving my all, my 100 percent, every time I step on the field to make them proud and honour everybody that’s been believing in me.”
If he could go back and speak to the younger version of himself waiting anxiously to hear his name called, his message would be simple.
“Just believe in yourself, believe in the effort you put in, the dedication and the discipline that you have. At the end of the day, if you give your 100 per cent, you’re going to get rewarded at some point.”
Looking back to his CFL debut, Exumé remembers making an immediate impact on special teams.
“My first game when I got a couple of tackles on special teams, almost broke a record. That was a good welcome moment in the CFL.”
As for how he’ll celebrate game No. 100, don’t expect anything extravagant.
“Go out there, give everything, just reminisce about how I got in the league and just try to surpass myself, do my job first and then just have fun.”
When asked if cupcakes might be part of the celebration, Exumé couldn’t help but laugh.
“No, no, nothing. Maybe after the game, I’ll see.”
For a player who entered the CFL simply hoping to make a roster, reaching 100 games is a testament to perseverance, consistency and making the most of every opportunity. On Thursday night in Edmonton, Exumé will add another chapter to a career built on proving people wrong.
AND that’s between the lines for Sheppard Realty in Regina. Specializing in farm and ranch real estate in Saskatchewan. Call Harry, Justin or Devan at 352-1866.