Sad news as the man responsible for the revival of the Saskatchewan Roughriders’ franchise nearly 20 years ago and the Rider Nation brand is no longer with us! Jim Hopson (pictured) passed away on Tuesday at the age of 73 after a three-year battle with colon cancer. Hopson was the first full time President and CEO of the Green and White.

The Riderville website says Hopson grew up attending Rider games and suited up for his hometown team from 1973 to 1976, alongside his heroes George Reed and Ron Lancaster. During his time heading the Riders between 2005 and 2015, the Roughriders made it to four Grey Cup Championship games, winning in 2007 in Toronto and at home in 2013 against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. As well, the Club’s profit went from just $455 in his first year as President and CEO to securing the long-term future of the franchise with sizable savings and investments.

Hopson played four seasons along Saskatchewan’s offensive line from 1973 to 1976 prior to embarking on a long career as a teacher and educational administrator. The Roughriders recently named the auditorium at Mosaic Stadium in honour of Hopson. He was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame as a builder in 2019.

Premier Scott Moe gives condolences to Hopson’s family and friends on social media, saying he made the Riders a better team and Saskatchewan a better place.