Incredible Amazing Season

The Saskatchewan Roughriders hosted the 101st Grey Cup.  As good fortune would have it they also played in the game verses the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.  One of the story lines through the week was the number of players/coaches on each team that had at one time been a part of the other.  The Riders established the tone of the game by early in the second quarter.  The Tiger-Cats did manage to pull within two scores late in the third quarter but the final outcome was never in doubt.  Final score:  Saskatchewan Roughriders 45, Hamilton Tiger-Cats 23.

The aerial view of the game showed a sea of green.  Tom Hanks and Martin Short were two of an almost non-existent fan base.

There are many teams that are known for their fans and for having a unique fan experience at their games, but nothing compares to the Rider Nation.  The Riders are the largest draw as a visiting team and games involving the Riders get the highest television ratings.  There have been away games where Rider fans have outnumbered the home team fans.  I have attended games where 25,000 (yes pre-stadium expansion days) were louder than some NFL games I attended.  There are no words that completely describe the emotion for Rider fans witnessing such a great win at home against a team filled with so many "turn-coats."  The effects of the win will resound throughout the province until next seasons Grey Cup game.  The Roughriders are a part of the fabric that makes the province.  The Riders are a way of life.  I have met former CFL players and when I mention Saskatchewan the immediate response is that the fans are dedicated, knowledgeable, and crazy.  Either you are a Rider fan, or you wish you were.

Congratulations Roughriders and congratulations to the province of Saskatchewan!  Enjoy the spoils of victory and soak in the rewards of being champions.