Burning of the Brand: Corey Mace kicks off 53rd Canadian Western Agribition
11/25/2024 05:02 PM
Corey Mace experienced a pair of firsts on Monday.
First visit to the Canadian Western Agribition.
First time autographing homework.
The latter landmark occurred at REAL District's Ag Ex Pavilion, shortly after the Saskatchewan Roughriders' head coach had kicked off Canada's largest livestock exhibition by performing the traditional Burning of the Brand.
That being done, he was informed that some visiting elementary school students were hoping to get his autograph.
Mace was delighted to oblige. There was only one snag: What to sign?
Assignment sheets, relating to an Agribition-based school project, suddenly had a dual purpose.
The signatures were followed by a round of high-fives.
A few minutes earlier, there had been high temperatures during the Burning of the Brand ceremony.
"I realized that I had my hand a little too low (on the branding rod), so I dragged that thing up there," said Mace, who wore gloves while applying a searing-hot brand to a piece of wood during a well-attended gathering.
"It was excellent. I just wanted to make sure that I branded it the right way and that the logo looked good.
"There are many cool things that I've been able to experience in my life and I've had never had an opportunity to brand anything. To be able to do it on a stage like this, I'm very honoured."
The ceremonial role Mace performed on Monday has often been handled by a politician. This year, for a change, Agribition officials decided to reach out to the CFL West Division's reigning Coach of the Year.
"I had to answer a couple of questions, because I was kind of nervous," Mace said. "I wondered, 'What am I branding?'
"It was awesome to see all the people speaking in front of me and to understand the totality of Agribition and what it brings on a global stage."
That was the perspective from someone who represents another renowned Saskatchewan brand.
"We know that Rider Nation doesn't just limit itself to the boundaries of the province," Mace said. "It speaks to people coming into the province.
"I'm hearing that there's people coming to Agribition from all over the world, so hopefully we can convert them to green and white as well.
"Just like we do for our games, we want to build that community atmosphere. This is another opportunity for the people of Saskatchewan to get together and celebrate, so I'm just happy to be here."
Agribition, in its 53rd year, continues until Saturday.
Between now and then, upwards of 1,300 events will be held at Agribition, which expects to welcome in the neighbourhood of 5,000 students.
Also noted will be the presence of 2,500 cattle.
As for spectators, organizers are hoping to top last year's record attendance of 143,000.
This year's crowd count will, at some point, include Mace's wife (Petra) and children (Maleena, 5, and Micah, 2).
"I'm looking forward to learning more about (agriculture)," the Roughriders' 48th head coach said.
"I went to the University of Wyoming. I lived in Calgary for years. I should know a heck of a lot more than I currently do.
"I think on a pure level, you always assume certain things, but now I can ask more questions. I've got no excuse. It's right here. It's right across the street from the office.
"I'm really excited and, of course, there's going to be vendors here. I'm always eating."
And greeting.
Even on the way back to the office, there were amicable exchanges with fans of all ages.
"Hey!" one youngster exclaimed. "Thanks again for signing my homework!"
