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“It’s the CFL. It’s what has given us a life, a livelihood. I enjoy the CFL game and what it has given me and my family. I wouldn’t miss this week for the world.”

Even if it means a hectic travel day?

“I’m tired,” Owens said, “but the excitement gives you a little bit of a boost, so I’m ready to go.”

Owens made his CFL debut in 2009, when he played one game with the Montreal Alouettes, before spending the next six seasons with the Toronto Argonauts. While with the Argos, he was named the league’s most outstanding special-teams player (in 2010) and most outstanding player (2012).

Last season, Owens played in 12 games with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, catching 58 passes for 808 yards and five touchdowns. He signed as a free agent with Saskatchewan in February, when Roughriders head coach, general manager and vice-president of football operations Chris Jones indicated that the plan was to use the University of Hawaii product as the team’s primary returner.

On Monday, Owens paid his first visit to Regina since signing with Saskatchewan. Upon landing, he congenially accommodated fans who requested autographs and pictures.

“You can probably ask anyone across the league on any other team and they’d agree with me saying that Saskatchewan is the best market in the league,” said Owens, who turns 35 on April 3.

“Every market has its fan base. If you play for Calgary, Calgary is going to be the best. If you play for Hamilton, which I did last year, there are great fans and great support. But let’s just be real. Saskatchewan has it all. Moving forward this year, with the new facility and the new stadium, it’s the highest of highs.