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Will Argos’ GM Mike ‘Pinball’ Clemons shake the hand of every single fan in attendance?

Each one of those demographics will be counted on to play a role in supporting the Schooners franchise once, or rather if and when, it is up and running as an official member of the CFL.

So this game is much less a test of the stadium itself, because it in no way resembles the $100-million facility that SSE is hoping to build elsewhere in Halifax. Huskies Stadium is not by any means CFL ready today, but temporary stands will be brought in to ensure capacity for at least 10,000 people, more if there is sufficient demand. A 2005 CFL exhibition game there between the Argos and Hamilton Tiger-Cats drew 11,148, so a crowd in the 12,000 range wouldn’t be unexpected.

This tilt is an Argos’ home game, and they will presumably receive the lion’s share of proceeds. Given that Toronto drew crowds as low as 9,819 for Calgary and 10,368 for Ottawa at BMO Field last season, a gathering of 10,000-plus in Huskies Stadium is not much of a hardship for the Argos’ franchise. The 2019 version of Touchdown Atlantic, which featured the Argos and Alouettes in Moncton, was also a Toronto home game, and attendance was 10,126. It apparently drew a nice mix of Toronto, Montreal and local supporters.

However, the stands in Halifax might well be awash in a sea of green and white, so good on the Argos if they are indeed taking one for the team; the Schooners that is.

A CFL source said SSE will act as the local hosts for the event and principal Bruce Bowser will head up a steering committee whose responsibility is limited to building out a mini Grey Cup festival to be held downtown in conjunction with the game. Situated on pedestrian friendly Argyle Street, which is flush with outdoor dining spots and live music, the festival will include family friendly activities and displays, food and entertainment, as well as the rather legendary Riderville venue, where the odd Pilsener will be served, and spilled.