Bring ’em out: Riders fans get ready for home opener

Fans are digging out their green and white and foam fingers from the back of their closets.

The Saskatchewan Roughriders are to face the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on Friday night in Saskatchewan’s home opener of the 2023 CFL season.

Rider fans are hopeful to keep the winning streak alive.

“I’m optimistic, actually,” said one fan heading into the Rider Store at the stadium. “I think it’s going to be fun and a really nice crowd.”

Some fans are nervous to go head to head with the team’s main rival. The Bombers have played in the last three Grey Cup games, winning two of them.

“I watched their last game,” one fan said. “Their defence is really strong but the offence worries me.”

Regardless of the outcome, Rider fans are excited to bring out the green and white.

“Our voices will be the loudest in the stands,” the fan said.

Fans not attending the game are looking forward to their at-home traditions.

“I’m going to see my mom who’s in a home, put her TV on, have a beer and supper,” a third fan said.

Fans attending the game can anticipate new menu items at the concession stands.

Mosaic Stadium has announced a “putting fans first” initiative to make experiencing the game more affordable.

According to reports, the stadium’s concessions will have a $5 menu item.

One of the booths participating is Fresh & Sweet, which also has taken on an additional space at the stadium.

Manager Cydney Wawia said the restaurant hired more staff and volunteers for the new space and things went smoothly during the pre-season game.

“It’s a new experience for us but it’s going well so far,” she said. “We’re really excited for the season.”

Their $5 menu item is a homemade apple crisp.

Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. Friday.