SEPTEMBER 2008 ROGERS CENTRE EVENT NEWSLETTER
Rogers Centre News, a monthly publication, is brought to you with the latest news and information on events at Rogers Centre.
SHOWING NO SIGNS OF COOLING DOWN, ROGERS CENTRE PICKS THE BEST FOR ITS FALL SCHEDULE
Back to school, crisp air and apple picking: The fun of fall is just beginning. Rogers Centre delivers bushels of activity this September with golden event announcements, spry sports games and delicious bites about the stadium.
QUICKLINKS:
126TH ANNUAL POLICE GAMES FLEX THEIR MUSCLES FOR CHARITY
TORONTO BLUE JAYS CLUBHOUSE HAS NEW LOOK AND FEEL
WORLD’S #1 PRESCHOOL BAND WIGGLES BACK TO TORONTO
TORONTO ARGONAUTS GET RETRO AND DEFENSIVE THIS SEPTEMBER
TORONTO BLUE JAYS ARE SIMULTANEOUS CHASERS AND SPOILERS
NATIONS FLOCK TO EXPERIENCE HEAVEN’S REHEARSAL
THE RACE IS ON TO PURCHASE SUPERCROSS 2009 TICKETS
CHARITY AND COMPETITION TEAM UP AT ROGERS CENTRE FOR THE 126TH ANNUAL POLICE GAMES
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| Camaraderie and competition join forces for charity. |
In the name of fun, family and fundraising, members of Ontario’s Police Services and Emergency Services Units show off their athletic skills at the 126th ANNUAL POLICE GAMES. A day dedicated to friendly competition and showmanship, this long-standing tradition is a key event which raises money for the TORONTO POLICE WIDOWS & ORPHANS FUND. Cheers will fill Rogers Centre as the multi-sport games take over the stadium and new event champions are crowned on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2008 starting at 7:00 p.m. Special performances by members of the CANADIAN IDOL TOP 10 keep the excitement in the air and the crowd on their feet.
A tradition dating back to 1883, the ANNUAL POLICE GAMES began as a fun way for the policing community to interact with different divisions. This sense of community extended to the civilians they swore to serve and protect as they invited spectators to enjoy the event. Over the years, the community-related focus has remained strong and now, the ANNUAL POLICE GAMES have also become pivotal in raising money for the Toronto Police Widows & Orphans Fund. An organization created to help the families of fallen members of the forces, this charity has been instrumental in helping the families cope, and has also paid over $14 million in survivor benefits since 1984.
Good natured or not, every participant is fired up to prove that their division has the skills and stamina to take home top honours at the games. Athletic bike relays, tug of war competitions, relay races and obstacle courses require prime physical endurance along with a dose of camaraderie and a strong sense of fun. Not to be outdone, the police dogs and horses get their moment to shine and show the audience their top-notch skills and abilities.
Fans continue to cheer as members of the 2008 CANADIAN IDOL TOP 10 perform during the games. Returning for the second year in a row and determined not to break any noise violations, these IDOLS are sure to bring the house down with their selection of solo and group performances. Come out and join in the revelry of the 126th ANNUAL POLICE GAMES in support of a good cause.
Tickets are available at all Ticketmaster outlets, including Rogers Centre - Gate 7, charge by phone at 416-870-8000 or online. Groups of 20 or more are encouraged to contact the Group Sales Office via e-mail.
BRAND NEW CLUBHOUSE BRINGS INSPIRATION TO THE TORONTO BLUE JAYS
A feeling of comfort in everyday surroundings is key to handling a busy schedule. When you’re the TORONTO BLUE JAYS and the bulk of your days are spent at Rogers Centre it’s essential to have an area that is part sanctuary and part home. On April 4, 2008 the team got the surprise of their life as the brand new, super-sized and state-of-the-art Clubhouse was officially unveiled after intensive planning and development.
Originally built in 1989, the Blue Jays clubhouse reflected a different era in baseball that no longer connected with modern ballplayers. Given that any member of the BLUE JAYS team could spend upwards of 10 hours a day at the stadium and in the clubhouse, it became a pivotal goal to update their personal space.
"In baseball the clubhouse is considered a home away from home," said Jennifer Angiolella, Director, Projects and Construction for Rogers Centre. "It was imperative that we created a space that was functional, contemporary and most of all, personal."
Angiolella, along with numerous departments within Rogers Centre and the Blue Jays, set out to make this a reality starting in 2006. These dedicated teams worked closely together to ensure that the clubhouse reflected current construction trends, the latest in technology and player preferences. Gathering and sharing information among the departments allowed for a more comprehensive vision on how this space should be created and the end result was a clubhouse that surpassed expectations.
Recognizing that modern ballplayers are more health conscious and fitness oriented the training room tripled in size, the open concept lounge area increased and each team member’s personal locker also tripled in size. All in all, the clubhouse expanded from 12,000 sq feet to 24,000 sq feet but the most important touches were in the details.
"You have to think like a ballplayer," said Angiolella. "Construction materials used on the stairs, even the headroom in certain areas was a factor in making sure the space was comfortable, yet safe for the team."
In order to accomplish that, Angiolella and her team studied the floorplan down to the tiniest detail, relied on department feedback and even traveled to study ballpark facilities throughout the Major Leagues. This attention to detail even took into consideration environmental concerns and included the installation of an energy saving lighting system from Encelium.
Another key element of the new clubhouse, which blended inspiration with nostalgia, was the creation of a memorabilia hallway. Using jerseys, gloves, shoes and photos of team players, this area was created to celebrate the milestones and accomplishments of the team.
"Coming up in the system you know that life changes when you make it to the Major Leagues," said Adam Lind while grabbing a drink from the clubhouse kitchen. "But to come up to Toronto and see the clubhouse takes your breath away. Walking past the history area is really cool because you see just how deep and rich the tradition is in Toronto. We're really lucky."
The current roster of players revel in the team history every day and a few have commented to Angiolella on the daily inspiration this visual montage provides.
And how did the team react to this vastly improved clubhouse?
"It is the best clubhouse I have ever been in," said Vernon Wells. "To walk into this great new space at the beginning of the year, and every day afterwards, has really encouraged the guys to get to the stadium early to prepare for games. Everything we need as players is at our fingertips. Everyone appreciates what Rogers has done to make our experience the best it can be."
According to Angiolella the team excitement level was so high that instead of going home from playing their opening series in New York, they came right from the airport in order to see their new space. Even the normally quiet Roy Halladay took Angiolella aside to personally express appreciation for the new clubhouse.
"The fact that the players were happy was the best part of the process from me," said Angiolella.
Stay tuned for a complete photo gallery of images from inside the new Toronto Blue Jays Clubhouse as well as other features on unique areas within Rogers Centre.
POP, WIGGLE AND ROCK: THE WIGGLES RETURN WITH THEIR NEW LIVE SHOW
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| Rockin' the rhymes. The Wiggles return with new show sure to entertain everyone |
Popping into the hearts and homes of families throughout the world THE WIGGLES return to Toronto with POP GO THE WIGGLES LIVE! This musical adventure with a nursery rhyme theme gets the crowd wiggling along as Sam, Murray, Jeff and Anthony put a contemporary twist on THE FARMER IN THE DELL, FRERE JACQUES and HICKORY DICKORY DOCK. Fans get a chance to experience the world’s #1 preschool band at Rogers Centre on FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24 at 6:30 p.m. and SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25 at 11:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
The group, lovingly referred to as a child’s first rock band, has been making a positive impact on children’s development for the last 17 years. Originally formed as part of a school project for an early childhood education program, THE WIGGLES became a staple to preschoolers. Sam (Yellow Wiggle), Murray (Red Wiggle), Jeff (Purple Wiggle) and Anthony (Blue Wiggle) embraced the world from a child’s perspective and in the process developed an award-winning brand of musical entertainment. Blending catchy tunes with dance and interactive live shows, THE WIGGLES continue to win over kids and adults alike with their fun and creative approach to engage children.
Packing up their TOOT, TOOT, CHUGGA, CHUGGA, BIG RED CAR and hitting the road for their latest tour, THE WIGGLES also bring their close, personal friends DOROTHY THE DINOSAUR, CAPTAIN FEATHERSWORD, WAGS THE DOG and HENRY THE OCTOPUS with them. The polka-dotted dinosaur and the break-dancing octopus are just a few of the characters who join THE WIGGLES on stage and cheer the crowd to COME ON LET'S JUMP or HULA HULA HULA. A kaleidoscope of colours, catchy tunes, and crowd-pleasing characters make POP GO THE WIGGLES LIVE! shows the hot ticket this October.
Tickets for the concert, ranging in price from $26.00 to $45.00, are available at all Ticketmaster outlets, including Rogers Centre – Gate 7, charge by phone at 416-870-8000 or online. Groups of 10 or more are encouraged to contact the Group Sales Office via e-mail.
GOING BACK IN TIME AND STARING DOWN THE OFFENSIVE LINE: TORONTO ARGONAUTS BATTLE THE WINNIPEG BLUE BOMBERS AND CALGARY STAMPEDERS
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| Arland Bruce III runs through any defence |
Welcoming Mike Walker, a former standout CFL defensive lineman, as the new defensive consultant to the team, the TORONTO ARGONAUTS blitz their way into fall. They get up close and personal against the WINNIPEG BLUE BOMBERS at Rogers Centre on FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2008 at 7:00 p.m.
Completely dominating the BLUE BOMBERS throughout the season, the ARGONAUTS welcome the chance to cripple their East Division opponents once again. Playing with a strong defense and a tight focus, the ARGONAUTS will keep their wits about them to earn their third victory.
Adding style to their strategies, both teams will unveil a winning look as they take to the field in 1950’s throwback team uniforms celebrating CFL RETRO WEEK. This series of games features CFL teams wearing classic uniforms to celebrate the league and its accomplishments. This event, which will take place during the next five seasons, mixes fashion and field goals adding a dash of nostalgia to the crowd excitement.
Hoofing into Rogers Centre to play their one and only game in Toronto for the 2008 season, the CALGARY STAMPEDERS bring an offensive push against the ARGONAUTS on SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2008 at 7:00 p.m.
Playing the second half of a home and home series against the STAMPEDERS, the teams kickoff in Calgary and then resume a week later giving the ARGONAUTS a home field advantage. Tensions will run high as these two teams, each ranking second in their division standings, rush the field to victory.
The strength of the STAMPEDERS quarterback Henry Burris, who ranks in the top three in touchdown passes, completions and passing yardage, poses a formidable threat. The Boatmen, who will have faced the STAMPEDERS only once, have the defensive remedy to tackle any offensive strategies.
Flex packs and individual game tickets are now on sale. Call the Argos at 416-341-ARGO or visit all Ticketmaster outlets, including Rogers Centre – Gate 7, charge by phone at 416-872-5000 or online.
EVERY GAME COUNTS FOR BLUE JAYS IN FINAL MONTH
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| Solid pitching continues to back the Blue Jays this season |
The Toronto Blue Jays have two homestands remaining in September as they close out the 2008 regular season. The Club plays 15 home games this month, each versus an opponent who stands in the way of their postseason aspirations.
The competition heats up on the diamond with Division Leaders turned rivals Tampa Bay and continues as traditional powerhouses Boston and New York pay a visit. Also making an appearance at Rogers Centre are the Minnesota Twins and Baltimore Orioles. Each team is battling for their spot in postseason play and the Jays are focusing forward with each game.
In the final Flashback Friday visits, Joe Carter will be at the game on Friday, September 5 while Mookie Wilson will be celebrated on Friday, September 19, 2008.
The following games will be played in September:
September 2 - 4 vs Minnesota Twins
September 5 - 7 vs Tampa Bay Rays
September 16 - 18 vs Baltimore Orioles
September 19 - 21 vs Boston Red Sox
September 23 - 25 vs New York Yankees
For complete season coverage, visit the Blue Jays online.
INTERNATIONAL SONGS AND DANCES SHOWCASE THE UPLIFTING MESSAGE OF HEAVEN’S REHEARSAL
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| Song and dance unites Toronto at Heaven's Rehearsal |
Recognized on numerous occasions by the United Nations as the most "multicultural city in the world," Toronto is a natural choice for the multi-national and multi-denominational HEAVEN’S REHEARSAL performance. Bringing hearts and hands together, HEAVEN’S REHEARSAL promises to be an evening that transforms individuals, communities and nations through song and dance. This evening of unity and enlightenment takes place at Rogers Centre on SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2008 starting at 6:30 p.m.
Drawing inspiration from a combination of cultures, HEAVEN’S REHEARSAL is a night that celebrates worship. Talented singers and dancers from around the world come together and express their devotion through choreographed and culturally diverse performances. These artists work together to create a visually stunning show calling on generations to be an instrument of change. A momentous occasion for those participating and attending, HEAVEN’S REHEARSAL encompasses a unity and drive to bring people together in celebration of one common goal.
An overwhelming and sold-out success in 2007, HEAVEN’S REHEARSAL brings its message of hope and unity to the larger capacity Rogers Centre stage. Toronto’s multicultural audiences of faith and surrounding neighbours embrace this memorable evening that will have a lasting impact on all who attend.
Tickets for the concert, priced at $25.00 are available at all Ticketmaster outlets, including Rogers Centre – Gate 7, charge by phone at 416-870-8000 or online. Group tickets are available for $20.00 and can be ordered by calling 905-231-1701.
SUPERCROSS GETS A JUMP START ON THE 2009 SEASON
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| The dirt flies as Supercross revs its engines |
Ringing in the New Year a few short days before, the 2009 MONSTER ENERGY® AMA SUPERCROSS SERIES goes full throttle with its new championship season starting January 3, 2009. Crossing North America with 17 stops in four months, AMA SUPERCROSS announces tickets sales for its return engagement to Rogers Centre on SATURDAY, MARCH 28, 2009. The day starts with QUALIFYING SESSIONS at 12:30 p.m. and the CHAMPIONSHIP RACES start at 7:00 p.m.
This day of specialized racing brings high performance off-road motorcycles to compete in a showdown of breakneck speeds and precision maneuvering. Rogers Centre gets a makeover for the day as customized dirt tracks, with steep jumps and obstacles peppered throughout, are built on the stadium floor. Don’t stall your engine as tickets are moving fast for this day of spectacular showmanship and skillful speed.
Tickets for the event, available for $45.00 and $25.00 for adults with all children's tickets (12 years and under) available at $15.00, are on sale at all Ticketmaster outlets, including Rogers Centre – Gate 7, charge by phone at 416-870-8000 or online. Groups of 20 or more are encouraged to contact the Group Sales Office via e-mail.