For the fourth straight year, the Jake Gaudaur Veterans' Award is coming back to Riderville, and this time it’s in the hands of one of Saskatchewan’s own.
Melfort’s Logan Ferland, the steady anchor of the Roughriders' offensive line, has been named the 2025 recipient of the CFL’s prestigious honour. The award is presented annually to the Canadian player who best embodies the qualities of Canada’s military veterans: strength, perseverance, courage, comradeship, and community impact.
The former Regina Thunder standout has climbed the football mountain from the CJFL ranks to becoming a full-time CFL starter, a team captain, and the heartbeat of the locker room. Over his last 56 appearances, Ferland has taken just one penalty, a stat that almost defies belief in the trench warfare of professional football. It’s a window into a player defined by consistency, discipline, and a deep sense of responsibility.
CFL commissioner Stewart Johnston says Ferland’s influence stretches far beyond the hash marks.
“Logan represents the best of Canadians. His leadership and commitment demonstrate what we’re capable of achieving when we play for one another. And his care and compassion away from the field demonstrate what we’re capable of when we’re united as a community. We’re grateful for his incredible example, not only to his fellow players, but also to young fans and athletes everywhere.”
Ferland’s impact off the field has become as defining as his play on it. As an ambassador for both the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital and Ronald McDonald House, he spends time connecting with families and young patients who remind him of his own story. Born premature, Ferland knows firsthand the fear and hope that come with those early days.
“Seeing the impact and really reliving all those moments as a family when we went back there and toured the hospital. What they have now at the Children’s Hospital compared to the old NICU has come such a long way.”
Through the Rider Reading and Win with Wellness programs, Ferland has met thousands of kids across Saskatchewan, sharing lessons of perseverance, including the grief of losing his father to cancer. He doesn’t shy away from the hard conversations. Instead, he uses them to build a connection.
“This means a lot,” Ferland said. “Football isn't just for what's going on on the field, but off the field. And that really exemplifies the work we do in the off-season. So, very much appreciate it.”
Ferland credits the Riders organization for making community service more than a slogan. He remembers being one of those wide-eyed kids in the school gym, watching a Roughrider walk through the doors.
“I had Jeremy O’Day come to my school when I was in elementary school. The fact that many years later, he’s now my GM shows how much you look up to those guys."
The Riders have now produced four straight winners of the Jake Gaudaur Award — a streak unmatched anywhere else in the CFL. Ferland says that’s no coincidence.
“I think it’s the organization and the province. We have a very close-knit group, and even with our foundation, we retain the same qualities. Cindy Fuchs does an amazing job representing us and giving us opportunities to speak to kids and change lives. And AZ (Arielle Zerr, the Roughriders' director of C\communications) as you all know, puts her best foot forward in nominating us.”
The Jake Gaudaur Award isn’t just a recognition of a good football player, it’s a recognition of a good man.
And in Saskatchewan, that means everything.
Logan Ferland already had the respect of his teammates, his coaches, and the community. Now he has the league’s recognition, too.
