The Scratching Post

UPDATE: A few days following the recording of this podcast, Aldo was successful in receiving an internship with Football Operations at the Saskatchewan Roughriders football team!=====In this episode of The Scratching Post, host Arthur Ward welcomes Regina Rams alum Aldo Galvan — a former standout kicker from Mexico City who turned a chance email into a five-year football career in Canada. Aldo opens up about overcoming homesickness, adjusting to a new culture, and chasing pro football dreams through both CFL and LFA opportunities. Now working in sports events and marketing, Aldo shares behind-the-scenes insights on game day operations, student engagement strategies, and his ambitions to one day become a general manager. It’s a story of resilience, reinvention, and passion for sport — both on and off the field.

In this episode of The Scratching Post, host Arthur Ward sits down with rising track and field star Femi Akinloye — a rookie standout with the Regina Cougars. From setting personal bests under pressure to juggling training, school, and building a budding sports media brand on TikTok, Femi opens up about the challenges of student-athlete life, his future journalism dreams, his deep-rooted faith, and some bold NFL hot takes. Get ready for a fast-paced, thoughtful, and inspiring conversation.

Trailer #1 | Why is The Scratching Post called The Scratching Post? Go get the popcorn!

Episode 11 | In this Episode we sit down with the dynamic and multi-talented Maddy Seida — a veteran of the Women's Basketball team, an aspiring pool player and a unapologetic advocate for authenticity. Maddy tells us how she loves and enjoys the process of learning and that learning new skills is her favourite hobby! She also speaks on how she has navigated the highs and lows of her career and what life skills she has learned from her past teammates.This episode is packed with lots of laughs and learning. Enjoy!

Episode 10 | In this episode, we hang out with the 2025 Canada West Rookie of the Year, Jules Stokes! She has an incredible journey— all the way from Terrace, British Columbia to Regina, Saskatchewan. We talk about her experiences, salmon fishing, and find out who her favourite teammates are!This episode is full of inspiration, laughter, and a great opportunity for you to get to know one of our amazing players! Enjoy!

Episode 9 | In this episode of The Scratching Post, host Arthur Ward sits down with Brandy West-McMaster, the interim head coach of the Regina Cougars women's hockey team and the 2024-25 Canada West Coach of the Year. Brandy reflects on her journey from player to coach, discussing the evolution of the game, her coaching philosophy, and the importance of relationship-building with her players. She shares insights on how the team's preseason trip to Finland strengthened their bond and contributed to their success in making the post-season. The conversation also highlights the team's community initiatives, including the Youth Ambassador and Little Sister programs, as well as the strong alumni support system that continues to shape the program’s legacy.

Episode 8 | In this episode of The Scratching Post presented by SaskTel, host Arthur Ward sits down with Astrid Baecker, head coach of the University of Regina’s women’s soccer team. Astrid shares her inspiring journey from being one of the program's founding players to leading the team as head coach. She discusses the evolution of the program, the challenges and rewards of coaching, and the strategies she’s implementing to take the team to the next level. From player development to building a strong team culture, this conversation is packed with insights for athletes, coaches, and sports fans alike. Don't miss this deep dive into the world of university-level soccer!

Episode 7 | 🚀 Welcome to another inspiring episode of The Scratching Post, presented by SaskTel! Today, we dive into the incredible journey of Natalia McCullough—a dual-sport athlete balancing soccer and track at the University of Regina. 🏃‍♀️⚽ From winning a bronze medal at the Canada West Track & Field Championships to making a triumphant return to soccer, Natalia shares her highs, struggles, and the mindset that keeps her pushing forward.We talk about leadership in sports, the importance of team dynamics, and how embracing change led Natalia to rediscover her love for the game. Plus, hear about the exciting work she's doing as part of her graduate studies!This episode is packed with motivation, sports insights, and a whole lot of fun! Don't miss out—hit play and get inspired! 🎧🔥🔔 Subscribe for more sports stories & athlete spotlights!

Episode 6 | In this episode of The Scratching Post, host Arthur Ward sits down with multi-sport athlete Brenna Metz, a standout in both basketball and flag football at the University of Regina. Brenna shares her journey from playing high school basketball to becoming a Canadian Collegiate Flag Football All-Star, with ambitions of representing Team Canada at the 2028 Olympics.Brenna discusses the growth of women's flag football, her experiences at national championships, and how her basketball skills translate to the football field. Plus, we dive into her trip to the Nisga’a Nation with the Cougars basketball team, her competitive mindset, and the importance of inspiring the next generation of athletes.

Episode 5 | In this electrifying episode of The Scratching Post your host Arthur sits down with Head Coach Mark McConkey of the Regina Rams, fresh off their incredible season! From starting with a below .500 record to clinching the Hardy Cup, Coach McConkey shares the rollercoaster ride of challenges, triumphs, and turning points that defined their journey.🎙️ Get a behind-the-scenes look at how the Rams transformed setbacks into a championship mindset, their epic win in Huskies territory, and their gutsy performance against powerhouse Laval in the Mitchell Bowl. Coach McConkey also dives into the team's commitment to the community, their winning culture, and what lies ahead as they aim for the Vanier Cup.Don’t miss this thrilling recap of resilience, strategy, and heart that will leave you inspired. Watch now and relive the moments that made history!📺 Subscribe for more in-depth sports stories and exclusive interviews.

Episode 4 | Join us for an inspiring episode of The Scratching Post, featuring Cougar Basketball alumna Michaela Kleisinger. Michaela reflects on her journey from playing five successful years with the Cougars, including multiple trips to nationals, to her current role as assistant coach. We talk about her unique coaching philosophy, dedication to the Regina basketball community, and her flair for game-day fashion. Whether you're a sports fan or seeking motivation, Michaela’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and community.

Episode 3 | In this episode of The Scratching Post presented by Sasktel, host Arthur Ward sits down with elite cross-country and track athlete Jonathan Podbielski to discuss the unique challenges of cross-country racing. Jonathan shares insights into the importance of mental and physical endurance, the strategic differences between track and cross-country, and how increased mileage builds his aerobic base for the season. They delve into Jonathan’s rivalry with Ron MacLean, a charismatic and formidable competitor who recently beat him in a surprising race, highlighting how tactical thinking can make or break a victory. Tune in to hear Jonathan’s goals for the season, his passion for competing to win, and the mental strategies he’s preparing to dominate the upcoming championships.

Episode 2 | Join us in this action-packed episode of The Scratching Post as we sit down with Regina Rams’ offensive lineman Cullen Wagner! From his early days in Lloydminster to dominating on the field at Mosaic Stadium, Cullen gives us a front-row seat to his journey.🔥 Get insider insights on what it takes to excel as an offensive lineman, the thrill of beating rivals, and the mindset needed to pursue the CFL dream. Cullen also shares stories about the Rams’ electrifying win against the Huskies, the culture shift in the program, and his passion for football podcasting.🎙️ Whether you're a die-hard football fan or curious about the life of a student-athlete, give this episode a watch!

Episode 1 | 🌊 From Mauritius to the Olympics: Ovesh Purahoo’s Inspiring Journey 🌟Join us on The Scratching Post for an unforgettable conversation with Olympic swimmer Ovesh Purahoo! From growing up on the picturesque island of Mauritius to representing his country on the global stage at the Paris Olympics, Ovesh shares his incredible journey. Discover how this Regina Cougars athlete juggles elite-level swimming with studying kinesiology, what it was like to compete on the world’s biggest stage, and even meet his two adorable dogs, Bear and Paris.💬 Get inspired by his reflections on mental focus, the thrill of winning his Olympic heat, and his goals for the future. Whether you’re a sports fan or just love a great underdog story, this episode is a must-listen!