The CFL Grey Cup made a special appearance at the TRCC in Thompson, drawing in football fans from all over the city. Held on the bright Saturday of October 5th, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event was a thrilling opportunity for enthusiasts to get up close and personal with the prestigious trophy. The RCMP recruiting unit played a pivotal role in bringing the Grey Cup and its Keeper Jeff McWhinney to Thompson, accompanied by some notable personalities from the Winnipeg Blue Bombers team. The electrifying presence of wide receiver Dalton Schoen, kicker Sergio Castillo, and the Bombers team mascot added an extra layer of excitement to the event. It was a day filled with football enthusiasm and community spirit as fans young and old came together to celebrate the iconic Grey Cup.
The Grey Cup keeper, Jeff McWhinney, expressed his excitement about the cup's visit to Thompson. And though this is the first time for him being in Thompson, the CFL has made previous visits. Once with the commissioner, and once with the Bombers, and also during a CP tour in 2015.
Sergeant Glen Stuckless, who is in charge of the Recruiting Services Unit of Manitoba, discussed the collaboration between the CFL and their advertising initiatives across Canada.
“We have a cooperation with the CFL and part of that cooperation was that we have been advertising initiatives across Canada, and also to travel around with the Grey Cup. So what happened this year, is there was 8 cities that were designated as the location for the Grey Cup to travel to. Thompson being one of them” said Stuckless.
Keeper, Jeff McWhinney emphasized the historical significance of the Gray Cup, beyond its association with football. He underlined the cup's role as a symbol of the sacrifices made by those who fought for the country, emphasizing its importance in recognizing and honoring the nation's history.
“This is not about Football” Said McWhinney, “this tells a great story. Probably the greatest history book we have and there’s only two words; presented, and dedicated. It tells us the story of those who fought for our Country and died for our Country. So there’s generations of this! So is it something significant, YES! And coming into communities to recognize where we are is important!”.
The players, including wide receiver Dalton Schoen, also shared their perspectives, emphasizing the significance of such events for both the fans and the players.
“We’re here with some of the team to show off the cup and see people. We try to do a lot of events with the team!” Said Schoen. “What I love about being out of Winnipeg is that the fans care so much about us as a team, so that obviously needs to go both ways where it’s important for us to get out and be there for the people! We’re here for anyone that wants to come by in the community to see the Grey Cup, interact with some of the players such as their kicker; Sergio Castillo That’s the Winnipeg Bombers’ Kicker, and then the team’s wide receiver; Dalton Schoen”
And well received this certainly was, as a steady flow of interested and ecstatic individuals came through to converse and get their picture holding the trophy. “For me it’s huge just to see the Grey Cup because I’ve always just seen it on TV all growing up. I’m a big Football fan” said Kristopher Blake, a long-time dedicated CFL fan who made an appearance at the event.
The visit of the CFL Grey Cup to Thompson was a momentous occasion that brought together football fans of all ages and backgrounds. The presence of notable personalities from the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, along with the historical significance highlighted by Grey Cup Keeper Jeff McWhinney, added depth to the event. The community spirit and football fervor were palpable as fans had the opportunity to get up close with the iconic trophy. The enthusiasm and excitement displayed by everyone, including the players and attendees, underscored the enduring impact of the Grey Cup on Canadian culture and history. This special event will surely be remembered as a vibrant celebration of sportsmanship, community, and national pride.
