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They were a first-year outfit trying to build a roster, build a culture, and find their way.

Last year, earlier than just about anyone could’ve expected, the RedBlacks found their way, and it resulted in a trip to the Grey Cup.

A 2-0 start to 2016 has proven that was no fluke.

Used as an all-purpose weapon during that late-season stint in the nation’s capital, Finch produced a solid 21.6-yard average on kick returns, a 7.7-yard average on seven punt-return opportunities, in addition to seeing much more time on offence than he will with the Stampeders, carrying the football 24 times for 95 yards.

The Florida-born, University of Oklahoma Sooners product never returned to Ottawa, but the parting was an amicable one based on Finch’s personal situation.

“Went home for some personal stuff — family reasons — but I’m glad to be a Calgary Stampeder and I’m looking to be around here for a while,” said Finch, who has a young child back home.

Based on his first two games in Red & White, there’s a chance Finch’s wish will be granted.

Through two weeks, Finch has produced the sixth-best kick-return average in the league at 21.2 yards per attempt, but the 171-pound waterbug’s 59-yard jaunt in Week 1 is currently the longest of the season in the CFL.

As a punt returner, a 9.3-yard average has Finch sitting fifth amongst players with at least six return attempts.

Stamps head coach Dave Dickenson has liked what he’s seen so far.

“Eight to 12 yards, to me, is a successful punt return, and he has looked dangerous,” Dickenson said. “He hasn’t popped one really big, except for that one in the opening game, but I like what I’m seeing and, I think, for him it’s about getting comfortable and just keep doing it. He’s a tough guy. He’s not big, but he sticks it up in there.”