Lauther, Charles among players participating in CFL, CFLPA joint mentorship program

TORONTO — Saskatchewan Roughriders kicker Brett Lauther and defensive lineman Stefan Charles of the Edmonton Elks are among six players selected to participate in a joint CFL/CFL Players' Association mentorship program.

The initiative will provide current players and alumni a look into the business side of league operation.

"As players, you are so focused on capturing the Grey Cup and bringing joy and pride to your city and fans, but there is also life beyond the field to consider," CFL commissioner Randy Ambrosie said in a statement. "Our players give their all to our great game, and we must do better to support them, whether in the off-season or once their playing days have come to an end.

"The player mentorship program is an investment in our players' futures and also in the future of our communities. It’s our promise to help set up our players and alumni for success away from the field, while building a stronger league and country together."

Other players participating in the program include: Jean-Philippe Bolduc; Hugh O’Neill; Brian Simmons; and Kenny Stafford. O'Neill and Stafford are current free agents while Bolduc and Simmons have retired.

Lauther and Charles are both under contract to their current teams.

"Collaborating with the CFL on this initiative provides our members access to a profession they've spent years working in," CFLPA executive director Brian Ramsay said. "Similar to all of the programs within our academy, our membership has been clear in their desire to continue contributing to the game they love when their playing days are over.

"The CFLPA Academy and its partners have provided over 1,700 opportunities for members and alumni to refine and enhance a wide range of skills that will help ensure