Roughneck fans embrace the Rush Hulk

It’s probably the last time the Calgary Roughnecks try to mess with the Rush Hulk.

The Roughnecks faced backlash from fans across the league last week after trying to ban super-fan Kelvin Ooms from wearing his Hulk costume to the game at the Saddledome on Saturday.

The team initially cited security concerns, but later changed its mind provided Ooms didn’t act like a mascot.

Despite the controversially leading up to the game, Ooms said he was well received by fans and security at the arena.

“They checked on us a couple times. They checked on me just to make sure I was OK and that I wasn’t getting hassled .”

“The fans were remarkable … posing with Calgary Roughneck fans in their Roughneck jerseys wearing a Hulk mask. How cool is that.”

The Rush Hulk and his entourage made it feel more like a home game for the Rush. Ooms said over 250 fans from Saskatoon came down for the game on four tour buses with dozens more driving on their own.

Ooms said he was blown away by the support from fans on both sides of the border.

“I had so many people coming up to me in my seat while the game was on thanking me for being there and bringing all of our fans.”

While Roughneck fans want to see the Rush Hulk back next year, Ooms isn’t sure he will be back.

“We’re just going to see where we are going to take it. It would be nice to bring this kind of atmosphere into other team’s buildings.”

Ooms added he’s already had interest from other teams about coming to their building.