Toronto Argonauts prepare to face Hamilton Tiger-Cats this Saturday

The road to the Grey Cup begins this Saturday, June 18 at 1:00 p.m. as the Toronto Argonauts face their rivals from down the road, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, at Rogers Centre. The first of two pre-season games will allow the Argos coaching staff to see both veterans and rookies in game action to help determine who will make the 2011 Double Blue roster. A key battle to watch is the quarterback position as incumbent Cleo Lemon, back up Dalton Bell and former Winnipeg Blue Bomber Steven Jyles vie for the starting job. There is great depth at defensive back and on the defensive line; newcomers such as Miguel Robede, Chris Bradwell, Nate Robinson, Armando Murillo and Dee Webb work to make their marks and veterans like Byron Parker, Lin-J Shell, Ricky Foley and Kevin Huntley defend their turf.

The Toronto Argonauts will host Italian Heritage Day at the game. The day will begin with the Ontario-Milano Peace and Fraternity Rally. Kick off duties will be handled by Mario Cortellucci, Founder and Chair of the Universal Youth Foundation, members of which will also form the Home Fan Tunnel. The Honourable Guido Podesta, Premier of the Province Milano, and Maurizio Bevilacqua, Mayor of the City Vaughan, will perform the coin toss. Italians from across the GTA will come out and show their Argos spirit.

The Argonauts continue their efforts to support youth and football and the pre-season game is no exception. Close to 2000 students who participated in the Argonauts Huddle Up Bullying Prevention Program in the 2011 school year will attend the game. The 50/50 draw will benefit the Orangeville Outlaws who will also play during halftime. A special Father’s Day tribute is also planned.