Stampeders to host Argos as CFL football returns to Calgary

A COVID-shortened CFL season kicks off in Calgary Saturday night as the Stampeders host the Toronto Argonauts with a crowd of more than 20,000 fans expected.

Alberta Health has not imposed social distancing, or special entry requirements, but the team has implemented some changes.

McMahon Stadium has been outfitted with hand sanitizing stations and now includes portable washrooms to minimize lineups.

As well, Stampeder games are now cashless and ticketless.

Alex Snell, the team's manager of business operations, says the Stampeders have been looking at these changes for a few years.

"With everything that's happened, it sort of just pushed it right up to the forefront and it's going to be different for fans, you know, tickets will be on your phone, so, your phone is your ticket," he said.

Snell says masks are welcomed, and asks that if fans aren't feeling well, they should watch from home on TV.

By the time the Stamps take to the field, 631 days will have passed since they last played at McMahon. 

The league cancelled the 2020 season last August because of the pandemic. The 2021 season will be a 14-game campaign.

For fans like Darcie Jensen, it's been a long time coming.

"Totally excited to be there and enjoy everything as if it's just a normal football Saturday," he said.

Kickoff is at 5 p.m.