Photo Credit: Juggle.com
On a gorgeous day like today, it’s hard not to let premature thoughts of summer creep into our heads. For some, that means beaches, swimming and sun tanning. For others, it’s camping, bonfires and star-gazing. But not to be outdone are those who crave summer sports; among those, the CFL.
Of the 8 (soon to be 9) member league, the nearest team is about to get a whole lot closer. With demolition of Ivor Wynne Stadium, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats were sent packing, looking for a temporary home while construction of their new stadium took place. They found that home at the University of Guelph’s Alumni Stadium and plan to play their 9-game home schedule in the city.
Earlier this week, they took to Cutten Fields to host their kick-off event in the city, to much fanfare and excitement. They’ve spent thousands of dollars to upgrade the stadium to meet the rigours of hosting professional sporting events, and seem about set to welcome 14,000 fans throughout the summer. With over 3,000 seats reserved for Guelphites, it’s a great opportunity to take in a CFL game in your own backyard. Don’t miss out this summer!
Tiger-Cats Kick Off Their Year in Guelph
Tony Saxon, Guelph Mercury, Wed. March 6th, 2013
GUELPH – The only thing missing was the marching band.
Like every good pep rally, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats officially kicked off their year in Guelph Wednesday with a gala event at the Cutten Fields complete with cheerleaders, rousing speeches and cherished alumni.
“It’s about fun, first and foremost, but for us in Guelph, this is a bit more. This will become part of our sports history,” Guelph Mayor Karen Farbridge said.
Although the temporary redesign of Alumni Stadium is not yet complete, it is expected to hold roughly 14,000 fans for the nine home games the Tiger-Cats will play there this summer.
Around 3,000 of those seats will be reserved for Guelph residents.
Ticats Director of Ticket Sales and Service Gerry Fonzo said Guelph fans wanting to put down deposits on a season ticket can call the team’s ticket office now. Prices will range from roughly $300 to $835.
Single game tickets are expected to go on sale mid-May.
Canadian Football League president Mark Cohon was one of roughly 250 people in attendance at Wednesday’s event, including Chief of Police Bryan Larkin, U of G vice-president Brenda Whiteside, Gryphon football coach Stu Lang and members of Guelph’s high school and minor football programs.
Owner Bob Young, President Scott Mitchell, several players, head coach/general manager Kent Austin and legendary alumni Angelo Mosca represented the Tiger-Cats.
Ticats owner Bob Young said the team resonates beyond the borders of Hamilton and has no doubt its year in Guelph will be a success.
“It’s so much a part of the history of not just Hamilton, but Southern Ontario and Canada generally,” Young said.