Riderville.com
The Grey Cup Northern tour began early in the day as Neal Hughes, Brendon LaBatte, Cameco representatives and members of the media getting a debrief of the 5 community, 30 hour, 2100 km leg excursion.
From there it was on the plane and into the chilly weather with the first stop being Cumberland House.
The flight was an easy one. Funny thing, cold weather makes for no turbulence and smooth flying. Cumberland House is within the Saskatchewan River Delta.
It was actually warmer in Cumberland House that it was in either Regina or Saskatoon, as the group of us went to Charlebois Community School.
The whole community gathered at the school to see the Grey Cup and the two Rider reps. Being around the Grey Cup as much as the players have, one would think they would be tired of these events. But when they see the many smiling faces and the pure excitement the Cup brings, it reinvigorates their passion in visiting all of these communities.
The players proceeded to take the Grey Cup and visit every student at the school. Where the teachers were just as excited as the students to meet the Grey Cup champs and receive an autograph
The northern communities in Saskatchewan are in the beginning stages of a minor/high school football program. Where as most of southern Saskatchewan have been playing football for many years, the Charlebois Islanders played their first season of 6-man football, losing in the final. Neal and Brendon spoke to the team and gave them some great insight on teamwork and dedication to the game and each other.
It was a quick afternoon because it was off to another hot bed of Rider fans, La Ronge.
The whole town and the community surrounding La Ronge came to visit the Riders and the Grey Cup. Which began with Neal and Brendon giving their appreciation for the support they get from this part of the province.
It was long lineups for the full three hours at Pre Cam Community School, but everyone got through and was able to get their own time with Neal, Brendon and the Grey Cup.
It was back on to the plane and all the up to the Saskatchewan and Territories border as we overnight at Stoney Rapids. More stories from the Grey Cup northern Saskatchewan tour tomorrow!
