The entire sporting community was shocked following the sudden passing of hockey superstar Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew.
The pair were riding bikes in New Jersey when they were hit and killed by a driver, an incident reportedly involving alcohol.
Saskatchewan Roughriders head coach Corey Mace spent 12 seasons in Calgary as a player and coach. With the Stampeders Mace had gotten to know Gaudreau through community work together.
“Love to his family and hockey families and the communities he's been in. I know the importance of what he meant to the City of Calgary. Rough, very rough news," Mace said adding he would remember Gaudreau’s smile.
"He seemed to enjoy every moment. Took time for people. It'd be hard to argue that there was anybody else that would get everybody riled up. It’s just horrible.”
Saskatchewan welcomes Rider Nation to Mosaic Stadium on Saturday for Fan Day, a chance to meet and collect player autographs. It is a reminder for Mace and the team about the impact the franchise can have.
“Being a professional athlete, it comes with the territory. We spoke about gratitude today, being grateful for being here to do what you love around people you care about. Really, really rough.”
On Fan Day, Gate 1 opens to Rider Nation at 10 a.m. so that fans can watch the team practice. From there, players clear the field and fans will have an opportunity to take to the turf for family fun activities. At 11:30 a.m., players and coaches set up on the concourse for an hour-long autograph session.
The Riders host the Blue Bombers Sunday at 5 pm at Mosaic Stadium with the 620 CKRM Countdown to Kick-off starting at 2 pm. You can watch the pre-game show LIVE on YouTube and listen to the game with yours truly and Luc Mullinder on the Roughrider Radio Network.
