Jim Hopson was a visionary. It was Hopson who transformed the Saskatchewan Roughriders into a powerhouse pro sports franchise. Who set the expectations for championships and sellouts, for truly connecting a province to its football team. Fought the fights that mattered, had little time for BS, became as vital a figure as the CFL has had this century.
Dammit, he loved winning football games and Grey Cups. Twice during his decade-long stewardship as the franchise's CEO, the Riders lifted that silver mug, the second one at home on a night that anyone who was there will never forget.
Beyond the pros, Jim deeply cared about amateur and university football in this country. Realized how vital they are to the heartbeat of the game, that they need to be a priority in the ecosystem of the sport in Canada.
And, of course, without Hopson's vision and leadership, there is no new stadium in Regina. A hall of famer, a pillar, a business mogul, a family man, and an icon gone at age 73.
Rest easy, Jim.
I get chills watching this. Rocket Richard was my fathers favorite player and I was raised with bedtime stories of the Rocket’s exploits on the ice. #50GoalsIn50Games
Special thanks to @ecasask for having us out at the 8th Annual Tin Cup Tournament in @Deervalleygc Our advisors there were spreading safety to our shared members who participated and giving away prizes. It was a great day for golf.
Congrats Corey Connors on your win @valerotxopen. 🇨🇦 We enjoyed hosting you at Desert Willow Golf Resort earlier this year. Enjoy your 2023 trip to Augusta #themasters#golfisgreat
Memorable week at @WMPhoenixOpen! Enjoyed the battle and incredible support from the fans in yesterday’s final group. Congrats to Scottie Scheffler on an impressive win. Big thanks to the Thunderbirds and all volunteers who make the #GreenestShow possible. On to @thegenesisinv!