Riders to bring victims’ families, first responders to Humboldt Strong game

The Saskatchewan Roughriders are inviting the survivors and families of the 29 people involved in the Humboldt bus crash to a June 30 contest in Regina as part of the team’s “Humboldt Strong” game.

The Riders are also bringing the first responders who were involved in the care of those who were injured. Altogether, the team expects to host more than 250 people for the contest against the Montreal Alouettes.

There will also be a video dedication to the Humboldt Broncos and the community of Humboldt and Broncos representatives will be involved in the anthem and coin toss ceremonies.

“Roughriders home games have long been a place where the people of our province can rally together,” Riders president and CEO Craig Reynolds said in a statement. “Dedicating a gameday to Humboldt Strong is an opportunity to give the people affected by the tragedy a chance to gather as they continue to heal. It also allows our club and all of Rider Nation a chance to show their ongoing support.”

Sixteen people – including 10 players – were killed and another 13 players were injured in the tragic accident on April 6.

The team was in Humboldt on Sunday for a practice and community event, which head coach Chris Jones likened to paying “our respects.”

Look at how robust this #Riders event is in Humboldt. @sskroughriders' players getting a taste of how meaningful their organization's actions are for today for a community that badly needs days like today… #CFL pic.twitter.com/A6oF6v8Oar

video via @Vandecision

— CFL News (@CFL_News) June 3, 2018

The Riders have also created a Humboldt Strong pin with 100 per cent of all proceeds going to the Humboldt Strong Community Fund. It is available at Rider store locations in Saskatchewan and online.