In Canadian football, some of the most inspiring journeys begin far from the big-city lights. That’s certainly true for Rigley Saville, a defensive lineman from Valleyview, Alberta, whose steady rise through Calgary minor football and provincial programs has earned him offers from both the University of Alberta Golden Bears and the University of Calgary Dinos.
Rigley’s football story began in northern Alberta, playing for the Grande Prairie Lions (Peewee) before suiting up for the Sexsmith Shamrocks (Bantam). He then joined the Golden Bears Selects program, where he gained exposure to elite-level coaching and competition. That foundation set the stage for his selection to Team Alberta U16, followed by Team Alberta U18, where he represented the province at the Football Canada Cup, competing against some of the best young players in the nation.
He later starred for the Hillside Cougars in high school, where his leadership and work ethic stood out on and off the field.
Growing up in a small town, opportunities for exposure can be limited, but Rigley found ways to make himself seen. Over the past four years, he’s been part of the RAW Sports Mentorship Program, training under Connor McGough, a University of Calgary alumnus and former first-round CFL draft pick with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. McGough’s mentorship helped Rigley refine his skills, navigate the recruiting process, and maintain the discipline required to compete at the next level.
“Rigley Saville is the definition of hardworking,” says McGough.
“Coming from a small community three hours outside Edmonton, he proves that talent shines regardless of where you play. His success did not come overnight — he’s invested countless hours in the weight room and on the field, constantly striving to improve. With the unwavering support of his parents, he travelled extensively across Alberta to attend camps, including the U of A winter camp, making the three-hour trip each weekend to compete. Rigley not only demonstrates the relentless work ethic required to excel in football but also leads by example in everything he does. I have no doubt he will find continued success in his future endeavours at the University of Alberta.”
That consistency paid off. Rigley’s performance earned him offers from two of U Sports’ top programs, the University of Calgary Dinos and the University of Alberta Golden Bears. After weighing his options, he committed to the Golden Bears, taking his talents to Edmonton while pursuing his post-secondary education.
Head Coach Stevenson Bone of the Golden Bears praised the young lineman:
“Rigley plays with a hard-nosed mentality and has the potential to be one of the best defensive linemen in the country by the time he’s finished. He’s only 17 years old with an extremely bright future, and we believe he can anchor our defensive line for years to come.”
For Rigley, it’s the next step in a long process that started with early mornings, long drives, and relentless self-belief.
Rigley Saville’s story is proof that success in Canadian university football doesn’t depend on where you start, it depends on how much work you’re willing to put in. From Grande Prairie to Valleyview, from Team Alberta to the University of Alberta Golden Bears, his journey shows what’s possible when talent, mentorship, and consistency align.
His path reflects the growing strength of football in Western Canada and serves as a model for young athletes chasing their own U Sports football dreams.
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In Canadian football, some of the most inspiring journeys begin far from the big-city lights. That’s certainly true for Rigley Saville, a defensive lineman from
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