The parking lot of McMahon Stadium was already filling up with tailgaters three hours before kickoff for the Calgary Stampeders season opener yesterday.
After winning it all last year and having the Grey Cup game in Calgary this season, fans are already expecting a similar outcome as last year’s.
“It’s dynamite. We got great players,” said longtime fan Ray Greenland. “Coach (John) Hufnagel has put together a pretty good group of guys and he’s a no-nonsense coach. We have a good opportunity to carry on from last year.”
Greenland was looking forward to the rematch from the Grey Cup last year as Calgary took on Montreal yesterday.
Fans of the Stampeders for 20 years, Ray and his wife, Pam, have been tailgating for 15.
Decked out with flags, banner, and a camping barbecue on top of their truck, the pair is already talking about the Grey Cup.
They have their 2010 Grey Cup tickets and are making their tailgating plans.
“You will see me here two days before to make sure I get my spot,” said Greenland.
Down the parking lot from the Greenlands, Brian Murray was enjoying the pre-game ceremonies.
Murray expects the Stampeders to end up in the finals again.
“They didn’t lose very many players and the ones they added are good quality,” said Murray.
