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The 26-year-old van Gylswyk played one game in 2016 while Crapigna was nursing an injury. He connected on one of three field goal attempts, with the lone three-pointer coming from 54 yards away, during his lone appearance. He was 4-for-4 on field goals during the 2017 pre-season.

This opportunity may be more than a one-game shot because Crapigna is on the six-game injured list.

“It’s an opportunity in general,’’ van Gylswyk said. “I showed everyone what I could do during the pre-season. If my opportunity comes here, then it comes here. If it comes somewhere else, then it comes somewhere else. I just want to play.’’

The Riders kept placing on van Gylswyk on injured lists because another team could have claimed him off the practice roster. He is fine with the way his career has turned out to date.

“Last year I was learning because it’s a big change between university and pro,’’ van Gylswyk said. “The Riders gave me an opportunity by drafting me so I’m not going to push for a trade or anything.’’

Van Gylswyk has gained a great deal of experience being around Crapigna, punter Josh Bartel and special-teams co-ordinator Craig Dickenson.

“I learned a lot from just being in this atmosphere,’’ van Gylswyk said. “Rider Nation is crazy. Just being on the sideline for some of these games is eye-opening.’’

The Riders have charted van Gylswyk’s kicks throughout practices during the young season.

“He has been good all year,’’ Dickenson said. “This week I’ve seen an elevated focus with him and genuine enthusiasm for knowing that he’s going to get a chance to play.’’