Consistency, hard work the keys for Lions’ receiver
Arceneaux hoping to continue dominance during 2017 season
KAMLOOPS (CP) — During a reflective moment before last season, Emmanuel Arceneaux looked inwards and made a decision.
It was one that wound up benefiting both the veteran receiver and the B.C. Lions.
“The biggest thing was it ain’t about me — that’s something I realized,” said Arceneaux. “If I bring my work ethic, everything will take care of itself.”
Arceneaux had put up consistent numbers during his five previous CFL campaigns, but his new outlook helped get the player and his team to the next level.
He finished 2016 with 1,566 receiving yards and a leaguebest 13 touchdowns as the Lions bounced back from a couple of down years to compile a 12-6 record while becoming one of the most exciting offensive teams in the country. “If you look around everybody will say, ‘Manny’s the big-play receiver or this or that.’ But I’m really just a guy that shows up everyday,” said Arceneaux, who finished last year with a career-high 105 catches. “I just make the most of my opportunities that I get and let the game come to me.
“I believe how you practice is exactly how you play. You’re a product of the work you put in. That’s one thing that got me where I’m at,” added the all-star in both 2015 and 2016.
Lions head coach and general manager Wally Buono brought Arceneaux to the CFL ahead of the 2009 season.
“What’s made him what he is has been his drive to get better, his work ethic to get better,” said Buono, whose team wraps up the CFL’s exhibition schedule at home against the Saskatchewan Roughriders tonight.
“He doesn’t take it for granted. He comes out every day, he practises hard every day, he plays hard every game,” Buono continued. “He’s become an elite player.”