Written by Erinn Squire
Modified & Updated: 07 Oct 2023
Reviewed by Sherman Smith
The Calgary Stampeders are a professional Canadian football team based in Calgary, Alberta. They are one of the oldest and most successful franchises in the Canadian Football League (CFL). With a rich history dating back to 1945, the Stampeders have captured the hearts of football fans across Canada.
In this article, we will uncover 17 fascinating facts about the Calgary Stampeders. From their iconic team colors to memorable moments on the field, these facts will give you a deeper understanding of this beloved sports team. Whether you’re a die-hard Stampeders fan or simply curious about the team, these tidbits of information will leave you more knowledgeable about the football legacy in Calgary.
Key Takeaways:
- The Calgary Stampeders, founded in 1945, have won the Grey Cup championship nine times and boast a dynamic offensive style of play, thrilling fans with their explosive passing and running game.
- The Stampeders’ enduring legacy in the CFL is marked by their dedicated fan base, iconic home stadium, and commitment to excellence, showcasing their passion for the game and rich history.
Established in 1945
The Calgary Stampeders were founded in 1945 and have since become an integral part of Calgary’s sports culture.
Nine Grey Cup Championships
The Stampeders have won the prestigious Grey Cup championship a total of nine times, with victories in 1948, 1971, 1992, 1998, 2001, 2008, 2014, 2018, and 2019.
CFL Western Division Dominance
The team has captured the Western Division title 15 times, showcasing their consistency and dominance in their division.
Bo Levi Mitchell, a Star Quarterback
Bo Levi Mitchell, known for his remarkable quarterback skills, has led the Stampeders to multiple Grey Cup victories and earned numerous awards, including Most Outstanding Player in 2016 and 2018.
Iconic Home Stadium
The Calgary Stampeders play their home games at McMahon Stadium, which has a seating capacity of over 35,000 spectators and is famous for its electric atmosphere.
Rivalry with Edmonton Eskimos
A heated rivalry exists between the Stampeders and the Edmonton Eskimos, with the annual “Battle of Alberta” matchups drawing massive fan support and intense competition.
Legendary Quarterback Doug Flutie
Doug Flutie, a renowned quarterback in both the CFL and NFL, spent four seasons with the Stampeders and played a significant role in revitalizing the team’s success in the 1990s.
The Team Colors
The official colors of the Calgary Stampeders are red, black, and white, representing the team’s strong and bold identity.
Successful Head Coaches
The Stampeders have had exceptional head coaches leading the team, including Wally Buono, who guided them to multiple Grey Cup victories, and Dave Dickenson, a former Stampeders quarterback and renowned head coach.
Numerous All-Star Players
Over the years, the Stampeders have boasted a plethora of talented players who have earned numerous All-Star selections, showcasing the team’s commitment to excellence and individual skill.
Community Engagement
The Calgary Stampeders actively engage with the local community through various initiatives, such as supporting charitable organizations and hosting events for fans of all ages.
The Horse-Drawn Wagon Tradition
A long-standing tradition of the Calgary Stampeders is the horse-drawn wagon that leads the team onto the field before home games, symbolizing the city’s western heritage.
Fan Support and Sold-Out Games
The Stampeders enjoy a dedicated fan base that consistently fills McMahon Stadium for home games, creating an electrifying atmosphere and making games a hot ticket in town.
Memorabilia and Hall of Fame
The team’s rich history is celebrated through the Stampeders’ Hall of Fame, which honors past players, coaches, and contributors, and includes a collection of memorabilia showcasing the team’s legacy.
Offensive Powerhouse
The Calgary Stampeders are known for their high-scoring and dynamic offensive style of play, often thrilling fans with their explosive passing and running game.
The Grey Cup Drought
Despite their overall success, the Stampeders experienced a lengthy Grey Cup drought from 2008 to 2014, making their victory in 2014 all the more special for the team and its fans.
Enduring Legacy
The Calgary Stampeders have left an enduring legacy in the CFL, showcasing their dedication to the game, passionate fan base, and commitment to excellence throughout their storied history.
As one of the most successful teams in the CFL, the Calgary Stampeders continue to capture the hearts of fans and leave an indelible mark on the sport with their rich history and remarkable achievements.
Conclusion
The Calgary Stampeders have a rich history and a strong presence in the world of Canadian football. With 17 Grey Cup wins, a dedicated fanbase, and a commitment to excellence, the Stampeders have solidified their place as one of the most successful and beloved sports teams in Calgary. From their iconic horseback entrance to their thrilling games at McMahon Stadium, the Stampeders continuously captivate their fans and bring excitement to the field.As we delve into these 17 fascinating facts about the Calgary Stampeders, we gain a deeper appreciation for their achievements, traditions, and impact on the city’s sports culture. From their founding in 1945 to their modern-day roster of talented players, the Stampeders have left an indelible mark on the Canadian Football League (CFL) and continue to be a force to be reckoned with.Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply interested in learning more about this iconic team, these facts shed light on the legacy, success, and enduring spirit of the Calgary Stampeders.
FAQs
Q: When were the Calgary Stampeders founded?
A: The Calgary Stampeders were founded in 1945.
Q: How many Grey Cup wins do the Calgary Stampeders have?
A: The Calgary Stampeders have won the Grey Cup a total of 17 times.
Q: Where do the Calgary Stampeders play their home games?
A: The Calgary Stampeders play their home games at McMahon Stadium.
Q: What is the team’s mascot?
A: The team’s mascot is a horse named Quick Six.
Q: Who is the Calgary Stampeders’ biggest rival?
A: The Edmonton Eskimos are considered to be the Calgary Stampeders’ biggest rival.
Q: Who is the all-time leading scorer for the Calgary Stampeders?
A: Mark McLoughlin holds the record for the all-time leading scorer for the Calgary Stampeders.
Q: Has the team ever had an undefeated season?
A: Yes, the Calgary Stampeders achieved an undefeated season in 1948.
Q: Who is the most famous player to have played for the Calgary Stampeders?
A: Jon Cornish, a former running back, is often regarded as the most famous player to have played for the Calgary Stampeders.
Q: How many times have the Calgary Stampeders appeared in the Grey Cup?
A: The Calgary Stampeders have appeared in the Grey Cup a total of 19 times.
Q: What is the team’s official team colors?
A: The official team colors of the Calgary Stampeders are red, black, and white.
Q: How many players from the Calgary Stampeders are in the Canadian Football Hall of Fame?
A: As of now, there are 46 players from the Calgary Stampeders in the Canadian Football Hall of Fame.
Q: Who is the Calgary Stampeders’ current head coach?
A: Dave Dickenson is the current head coach of the Calgary Stampeders.
Q: How many seasons have the Calgary Stampeders missed the playoffs?
A: The Calgary Stampeders have only missed the playoffs ten times in their entire history.
Q: What is the team’s official slogan?
A: The team’s official slogan is “Unite the Red.”
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