By Richard Obrand,
MontrealAlouettes.com
They had just finished recovering from a heart-breaking defeat that occurred just eight months earlier in front of 66,000 of their own fans, in their own building.
So while second-year head coach Marc Trestman and the rest of his staff were busy preparing the finishing touches to their month-long training camp in St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, the players were busy rubbing elbows with the Alouettes faithful.
Considering the manner in which the 2008 season had ended, perhaps other cities would have chosen to go another way to mark the opening of their respective camps, but not in Montreal. Fans were given the opportunity to meet and receive autographs from their favourite players and coaches, while children were treated to games and other exciting activities, all combining for a great day of fun and football for all.
The day began with a player introduction ceremony by long-time P.A. announcer Jacques Moreau, followed by a light practice and a barbeque for fans. The Alouettes cheerleaders were also on hand for the day’s events, posing for pictures and signing autographs for fans of all ages.
It was a celebration of a new season and perhaps a prelude to what was unknowingly coming just six months later in Calgary.
