Article content continued

The team was joined by mascot Ralph the Dog, as food trucks, music and giveaways also joined the block party.

Dozens of players and staff members stuck around to sign autographs and take selfies with fans as they left the area.

Don Verdonck, a 20-year season-ticket holder, said it was awesome to see the crowd gather in support of the team.

“It’s great to see the city’s support, (the team) worked so hard all year,” he said. “I think it’s just fabulous for the city.”

Gathering with a group of 20, Verdonck said they watched the game “biting our fingernails.” This championship, he said, ranks near the top of his favourite Stampeders moments.

“This was one of the top ones. It’s a bit of redemption for the last couple of years,” he said. “It feels pretty good.”

Sandy Ferris, who became a fan of the Stampeders 33 years ago when she moved to Calgary, was one of many cheering on the team as they brought out the Grey Cup.

“Every time they win the Cup I come down here, and this one was the best one yet,” she said.

What made it the best, she said, was the challenges the team overcame all season long.

“I think it’s because of all the adversity they faced this year and how they fought through it and came together as a team, I think it’s awesome,” she said, wearing an Alex Singleton jersey.

Meanwhile, Ron Flaig said he and other Stampeders fans had a “rough ride” up to Edmonton for the Grey Cup game.

“Even riding the transit up there, all we got was abuse,” said Flaig, who said he was excited by the team’s win.

“Perhaps we are a dynasty, because that’s what Toronto said last year, and we see where they went after they won a Grey Cup.”

zlaing@postmedia.com

On Twitter: @zjlaing