The Saskatchewan Roughriders have revealed how they will honour George Reed during Saturday’s game.
During the Legends game against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, the team will celebrate the life of the hall of fame fullback during the CFL showdown. Kickoff for the game is set for 5 p.m.
Reed, who spent all of his career with the Riders, died on Sunday — a day before his 84th birthday.
Prior to the game, Reed will be honoured in a ceremony shortly before kickoff. The Riders say fans are encouraged to be in their seats by 4:50 p.m.
Reed was an active member in the community and his charity work was as important to his legacy as what he accomplished on the field. The Riders have come together with the George Reed Foundation to create the George Reed Legacy Fund. The club states, “Effective immediately, the Fund — which will support the Special Olympics Saskatchewan and Mother Teresa Middle School — will take on the work of the George Reed Foundation and continue Reed’s lasting legacy in the province.”
Guests from Special Olympics Saskatchewan and Mother Teresa Middle School will be at the game on Saturday.
During the game, fans will notice other ways to honour the great player as well, including special acknowledgements of Reed painted in both end zones and as well as his initials on the 34-yard line on the home side of the field.
“Section 34”, where Reed sat for nearly every home game, will be lit green.
A special George Reed decal will be on the players’ helmets and jerseys for the game as well as players, coaches and staff will wear ‘Remembering 34” shirts and bunnyhugs during pregame and on the sidelines during the game.
The Riders said other, “Moments will take place and memories will be relived on game day and beyond, creating a space for Rider Nation to grieve together, but also to celebrate the great life of George Reed.”