Rider Nation is invited to celebrate George Reed’s life today at the Viterra International Trade Centre.
Doors open at 11:30, with the program beginning at 1:00. The dress code is Rider green.
Throughout the week, both current and former players have acknowledged the significant impact that Reed has had.
Running back Jamal Morrow followed a similar path as Reed, playing at Washington State University before moving north of the border to join the Saskatchewan Roughriders.
Morrow said he was aware of Reed when he was a member of the Cougars, but when the 28-year-old arrived in Saskatchewan, he realized the legendary running back’s impact on the team and province.
The crowd at Mosaic Stadium would always go wild whenever they showed Reed’s face on the jumbotron during Roughrider games, which is something Morrow would also noticed.
“For me, every time I was able to see his face, it was a reminder of how special he was and what he meant to the whole community and the whole football world.” Morrow added, “He left a lasting impact on me.”
Wide receiver Kian Schaffer-Baker has been with the Roughriders for three seasons. He says it’s important to recognize the contributions that Reed made.
“He’s a trailblazer, not just the Saskatchewan Roughriders but for the entire CFL. “
Former Roughrider running back Kory Sheets said he was heartbroken when he heard the news of Reed’s passing, as he was hoping to reconnect with him this weekend with Sheets in town as a part of the 2013 team’s induction to the Plaza of Honour.
The 2013 Grey Cup MVP said he and Reed had meaningful conservations that were more than football.
“Made me understand what type of person I could be in this place.”
The Roughriders announced they will hold a pregame ceremony to honour Reed before tomorrow’s game against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
Saturday also has been declared George Reed Day in Saskatchewan.