Monday Night Football (MNF) is thrilling all on its own – but when you add in a few famous faces, the excitement gets jacked up a few notches!

Youth participating in MNF in the 2020 season have the unique opportunity to practice alongside some Rider alumni. Greg Fieger, Mike Abou-Mechrek, Chris Best, Mike Strickland, Steve Mazurak, Jim Hopson, Al Johns, and Cleveland Vann have all participated or agreed to participate during at least one practice over the course of the seven-week season.

“The Saskatchewan Roughrider Alumni Association has a longstanding commitment to actively supporting children and youth in our communities across Saskatchewan,” explained alumni Greg Fieger. Greg is also the chair of the Ranch Ehrlo board of directors.

The former Riders are there for more than just football – each evening, they mingle with the youth and staff, sharing stories and engaging in meaningful conversations as they participate in drills ran by Ehrlo Sport Venture staff and volunteer coaches.

“This is a great opportunity for our youth,” said Sport Venture manager Gloria Patrick. “Not only do they get to learn from some of the best, but for a lot of them, they are meeting real-life heroes. It’s been wonderful to watch their excitement and we look forward to continuing this experience throughout the 2020 season.”

“Opportunities to support programs like Monday Night Football are perfectly aligned with the Rider Alumni Association’s objectives,” Greg added.

The organization also purchased 125 mini footballs from the Rider store for MNF participants. In the past, the Alumni Association has purchased jerseys for MNF participants, as well as fundraised for Big Brothers Big Sisters Southern Saskatchewan, and supported minor football across Saskatchewan.

“We’re grateful to the Rider alumni association for stepping up to support Sport Venture’s youth,” Gloria concluded.