The 2009 Saskatchewan Roughriders Charity Calendar was officially launched August 26th at a Rider Pep Rally event in downtown Regina, raising even more excitement for Sunday’s Labour Day Classic. The third annual fundraising calendar, in support of Riders’ Catch for KidSport™, was once again produced through the partnership of SaskEnergy, KidSport™ Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Last year, the calendars generated more than $111,000 for KidSport™.

“The Saskatchewan Roughriders and the people of this province share a lot in common. They build on success and support the communities they are a part of,” said Ken Cheveldayoff, the Minister of Crown Corporations. “I commend SaskEnergy and its community partners in this calendar project for supporting KidSport™. Their efforts demonstrate Saskatchewan’s commitment to building healthy and active children, by ensuring all kids have access to sport programs.”

Rider KidSport™ Ambassadors Matt Dominguez, Scott Schultz, Jeremy O’Day, Marcus Crandell and Mike McCullough, as well as the Riders’ President and CEO Jim Hopson and several other Riders, helped launch this year’s calendar and signed autographs. The Rider Pep Band, Gainer the Gopher and the University of Regina Cheerleaders were also on hand to rally extra support for the Riders and the calendar project.

“The Saskatchewan Roughriders are pleased to once again partner with SaskEnergy and KidSport™ Saskatchewan for such a worthwhile cause,” said Hopson. “Through sport kids learn many skills that will last a lifetime, and the Roughriders are thrilled to help children have the opportunity to play.”

The calendar contains photos of current Rider stars such as Wes Cates, Andy Fantuz and Luca Congi (bottom of this page) as well as Rider legends such as Vince Goldsmith, Cleveland Vann and Chris DeFrance. Photos, facts, trivia and important dates in Rider history are also included in this must-have item of Rider memorabilia.

KidSport™ is a registered children’s charity that provides children in need with financial assistance for sport registration fees, and in some cases sporting equipment, so that all children are given an equal opportunity to play sports and to grow and succeed in life.

“On behalf of KidSport™ Saskatchewan, I would like to thank the Saskatchewan Roughriders, SaskEnergy and all of our sponsors for their support of the 2009 Saskatchewan Roughriders Charity Calendar and Riders’ Catch for KidSport™,” says Don McDougall, Chair of KidSport™ Saskatchewan. “Every year, we are overwhelmed by the support of the people of Saskatchewan and our sponsors as their generosity allows us to move one step closer to ensuring that all kids can play.”

The funds raised from the 2009 Saskatchewan Roughriders Charity Calendar will help ensure that KidSport™ continues to thrive in Saskatchewan.

Calendars are on-sale now at your local Shoppers Drug Mart, the Rider Store and www.riderville.com for only $20.00.