as the Saskatchewan Roughriders take on the BC Lions in western semi-final CFL action in Regina, SK, November 2, 2024. Photo Electric Umbrella/Liam Richards
The first opportunity at volunteering is nearing.
On Friday, the application process will begin for the Rider Squad — the Saskatchewan Roughriders’ fan ambassador team — which is presented by SaskEnergy.
“The volunteers are the smiling faces that greet you when you enter Mosaic Stadium,” says Rob Harrison, the community-owned CFL team’s Volunteer and Guest Experience Manager.
“They’re the people you meet while going through the gate, having your ticket scanned, or hosting the section in which you sit.
“Our Club was built on the backbones of volunteers and bringing them on board is a continuing part of our evolution.”
Although the Roughriders shifted from a management board to a governance board in 2004 — when Jim Hopson was named the team’s first President-CEO — the volunteer component is still crucial to the operation of the team.
The current President-CEO, Craig Reynolds, reports to an all-volunteer Board of Directors that is chaired by Dave Pettigrew.
And on game days, the all-volunteer Rider Squad exists to assist the owners — the fans — in a multitude of ways.
“It’s about supporting the fans,” Harrison says, “and it’s also about being part of a team and supporting each other. There’s a lot of camaraderie and they really are a big, happy family.”
Ideally, the Rider Squad is slightly upwards of 200 strong. Each volunteer is required to work a minimum of six regular-season games and to be available for a home playoff contest.
All prospective volunteers are interviewed as part of the application process. Orientation takes place before the season, concluding with the home pre-season game.
Each volunteer receives a uniform and a pre-game meal, in addition to being eligible for prizes. The volunteer base in its entirety is honoured at an annual recognition dinner.
“They get to work with a lot of really great people,” Harrison notes. “They’re an amazing group of volunteers.
“They may not be a team in uniform on the field, blocking and tackling, but they get to be a part of an important team and to enjoy that experience.”
Consider these testimonials from current members of the Rider Squad:
• “I have had such a great time and feel appreciated.”
• “The experience is amazing and fun, and the team is absolutely awesome.”
• “The people are fantastic, as is the game-day experience, but the opportunity to be part of the Riders’ legacy fills me with pride.”
• “It’s a rewarding experience, being part of a live event that is buzzing with fun and excitement.”
• “The Rider Squad is a great organization. They take care of us and truly care that we have a fun and safe volunteer experience at every game.”
• “This is an inclusive team that is here to have a good time and help make game days special for all who attend.”
• “It gets you out to experience football at a new level and allows you to realize the importance of volunteers at other events.”
• “The culture cannot be matched. The support team ensures you are prepared and supported throughout your shift.”
• “Your involvement will make a difference, so, don your green and white and join the Rider Squad today!”
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