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The 23-year-old Wildrid Laurier product was named Edmonton’s nominee for the CFL’s most outstanding Canadian of 2018 in just his second season.

And it isn’t being received as any small consolation, either. In fact, it’s confirmation on a job well done on endeavors that were two years in the making, going back to before he was drafted in 2017, when all but one team wanted to turn him into a linebacker to take a route more typical to Canadian defenders.

“I feel like whenever you’re in the CFL and a Canadian player and playing in a position that’s usually traditionally American, this means a lot for me,” Boateng said. “And coming from an organization that I have a lot of respect for, it’s going to mean a lot for me.

“From what I was taught back in high school from my gym coach who was also my football coach, he told me that you could spend a day or two looking at your accolades, but after that, you’ve got to move on.”

After all, there is still a game to win Saturday and a sack title to chase.

“We play in a league where we get evaluated each and every day,” Boateng said. “And I might be the Canadian player of this year, but next year, who cares about what I did last year?”

Well, his head coach, for one.

“Lots, it’s hard to play 18 games and he’s been able to do that, stay healthy,” said Jason Maas. “Obviously, he’s been successful but I think he’s gotten more physical. He’s learned some different things, I think. He’s played within the defence.

“For a young guy, he’s exceeded expectations and just keeps on getting better.”