Off-Season Notebook – 19.11.24
11/19/2024 05:53 PM
Another season come and gone.
Although the Stampeders weren't participating in the big game, there was still a large Calgary presence throughout Grey Cup week as fans, players and staff alike came together to celebrate for the biggest party in Canada.
Amongst those representing Red and White were president Jay McNeil and 2024 presidents’ ring winner Reggie Begelton who could be spotted mingling with fans at Stamps House.
Veteran kicker Rene Paredes was also present for the week's festivities and assisted the Outriders in serving up some western hospitality at the Calgary Grey Cup Committee's pancake breakfast.
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A Celebration Of Canada
"You see people from every team at every party out celebrating together," said McNeil. "People come from all over the country to have fun and celebrate our great game.
"That's what makes it so special. You have fans from every team celebrating together and coming into Stamps House seeing all the different jerseys and friendly banter, it's a lot of fun."
"It's a community," said Begelton. "Anytime you get to be personable without the helmet and show your face out in the community is a good opportunity.
"(The Grey Cup festival) is truly all nine teams being able to bond together for a like-term which is the CFL game and league as a whole. There may only be two teams in the Grey Cup, but as a family we all want to come together."
The All-CFL receiver was also named the Athletes in Action Canada recipient of the Gord Barwell award. Nominated by team chaplains, the honour recognizes the CFL player who demonstrates outstanding Christian character and leadership.
Out With The Old, And In With The New…
Turf.
Last week McMahon Stadium began the process of removing the turf.
The playing surface was utilized for 10 seasons on which a pair of Grey Cup-champions teams – the 2014 and 2018 clubs – performed. Additionally, it played host to the 107th Grey Cup in 2019.
The new turf will be installed in the new year and ready for when the Stamps return for camp in May, the inaugural season of the Northern Super League's Calgary Wild FC, and of course for the 111th Grey Cup in November 2026.
new turf coming soon pic.twitter.com/FYylLA0Nlv
— Calgary Stampeders (@calstampeders) November 14, 2024
Fast Facts
It wouldn't be a Grey Cup party without 'Tuffy Nuff', the Calgary Grey Cup Committee horse making an appearance – a long-standing tradition of 76 years. In addition to visiting the hotel lobby, the beloved hooved guest made a visit to Stamps House for the first time.
horse sighting pic.twitter.com/n8fe2FxbAS
— Calgary Stampeders (@calstampeders) November 15, 2024
