Click here to sign up for our free daily newsletter.

CFL Hall of Famer credits big brother for success

Mar 31, 2015 | 1:21 PM

Don Narcisse, who is considered by many to be one of the greatest players to ever wear a Saskatchewan Roughriders jersey, will be the special guest speaker at the Big Brothers Big Sisters Big Breakfast.

The Big Breakfast, an annual tradition in Prince Albert, will take place in the Ches Leach Lounge on April 20.

Narcisse explained why the organization is so important to him.

He has had a lot of accomplishments during his CFL career, but he said the moment he is most proud of is the day his father was able to watch him play.

“When I [had] a chance to become the all-time lead receiver in the CFL, I [had] a chance to fly my dad down [to Regina] and it was amazing,” he said.

It was the first time Narcisse’s dad watched him play, as well as the first time he travelled in an airplane. When Narcisse was a young boy, his dad worked two jobs to help support the family.

“Just to see that smile on his face and I was like ‘that’s what it’s all about, making your parents real proud of you,’” said Narcisse.

With no father around, Narcisse turned to a big brother for help and mentorship.

“If it wasn’t for him doing what he did, I wouldn’t be where I’m at today,” said Narcisse. “He was always said ‘one day Donald Ray is going to play pro football,’ and he used to make sure I didn’t get into [any] trouble.”

At the time of his retirement in 1999, Narcisse was first all-time in career receptions, and third in career receiving yards. In 2010, Narcisse was inducted into the CFL Hall of Fame.

Narcisse said he is looking forward to speaking at the Big Brothers Big Sisters Big Breakfast. He said his message to the crowd will be less about football and more about life.

“You have to have a great attitude, make sure you treat people right and the most important thing is you’ve got to work hard,” he said.

Narcisse said with those three ingredients, in whatever you job you do have, you will succeed.

For more information about purchasing tickets for the Big Breakfast, click here.

nmaxwell@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell