Article content continued

“It’s always good to come to events like this because I’m able to shake hands, talk to people and just kind of interact with fans who support me,” offered Fajardo, who happily mingled with fans and posed for numerous photos with endearing fans.

“This is actually my first time (returning to Saskatchewan) since rehabbing my injuries. So now that I’m healthy again, I’m able to travel.”

FIRST OFF-SEASON VISIT

Fajardo says he’d rather get smacked by minus-40 wind chill, like he did Saturday, than a hard-charging defensive lineman.

If the Saskatchewan Roughriders quarterback had his choice, that is.

“I think the minus-40 wind chill, I can prepare for a little bit more,” offered Fajardo.

“Sometimes you get hit by those defensive guys and you’re not expecting it.”

So, then, much to his wife’s astonishment, Fajardo headed to the Great White Cold.

“Hands down,” he adds, the coldest weather he’s ever experienced.

“My wife and I were looking at it (weather) and she was, like, ‘you’re really going up there?’ I packed everything warm I had in my closet,” explained Fajardo.

“Yeah, it’s pretty cold. When I got off the flight, you kind of take a deep breath and go, ‘whoa, that’s pretty piercing’ but it’s part, I think, of the Canadian culture especially living here on the Prairies. I just want to embrace it and be a part of it.”

So, bring it on, Saskatchewan.

The weekend cold spell didn’t seem to faze Fajardo, who received the customary warm reception from Roughriders fans in attendance.