An Overview of Professional Sports Teams in Calgary
Calgary is well known for its professional sports teams. From hockey to football and even the city’s own lacrosse team, Calgary has something to offer both casual fans and die-hard devotees.
In this overview of professional sports teams in Calgary, we will explore each of these organizations, their history, and how they contribute to the city’s vibrant culture.
Hockey: The Calgary Flames
The most popular professional sports team in Calgary is undoubtedly the NHL’s Calgary Flames. Founded in 1980 as part of the World Hockey Association (WHA), the Flames moved to the NHL following a merger between WHA and NHL franchises in 1979. Since then, the Flames have become one of the most successful teams in the NHL, and have made the Stanley Cup playoffs multiple times. The team is especially popular among Calgary natives, who proudly wear their red and yellow jerseys to support their home team.
Football: The Calgary Stampeders
The Canadian Football League’s (CFL) Calgary Stampeders have been a staple of the city’s professional sports scene since 1945. The “Stamps” as they are affectionately called, have won eight Grey Cups—the most of any CFL franchise—and consistently rank among the league’s best teams year after year. Led by legendary head coach Wally Buono and quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell, who earned his fourth consecutive West Division All-Star selection this season, the Stamps are a team to be reckoned with.
Lacrosse: The Calgary Roughnecks
The newest professional sports team in Calgary is the National Lacrosse League’s (NLL) Calgary Roughnecks. Founded in 2002, the Roughnecks have become one of the most popular teams in their leagu. And have made it to the NLL playoffs in seven of their fifteen seasons. With players like Wesley Berg, Curtis Dickson and Dane Dobbie leading the way. There’s no doubt that this team will continue to make its mark on lacrosse history for years to come.
Calgary is home to several professional sports teams that compete at the highest level in their respective disciplines. These include the Calgary Flames of the National Hockey League (NHL). The Calgary Stampeders of the Canadian Football League (CFL) and the Calgary Roughnecks of National Lacrosse League (NLL). There are also a number of other teams based out of Calgary including baseball, basketball, rugby and soccer teams.
In this overview article we will look at each team in more detail, discussing their history and current status within their discipline.
The Calgary Flames:
The Calgary Flames are a professional hockey team who play in the NHL’s Western Conference Pacific Division. The team was founded in 1980 as part of an expansion into Canada by the NHL. They play their home games at the Scotiabank Saddledome and have won one Stanley Cup in 1989. The Flames are currently coached by former NHL star Darryl Sutter. And boast a roster of young stars such as Johnny Gaudreau and Matthew Tkachuk.
The Calgary Stampeders:
The Calgary Stampeders are a professional Canadian Football League (CFL) team based in Calgary, Alberta. The team was found in 1945 and is currently own by the Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation. The Stamps play their home games at McMahon Stadium, located on the University of Calgary campus. Where they have won 7 Grey Cups since 1948. Notable players include quarterback Andrew Buckley, running back Jon Cornish, and wide receiver Kamar Jorden.
The Calgary Roughnecks:
The Calgary Roughnecks are a professional box lacrosse team that plays in the National Lacrosse League (NLL). The team was found in 2002 and has won 3 championship titles since then. They play all of their home games at the Scotiabank Saddledome. Where they are currently coach by Curt Malawsky and also led on the floor by captain Dane Dobbie. Notable players include Curtis Dickson, Shawn Evans, and Tyler Digby.
Conclusion:
Calgary is lucky to have so many professional sports teams competing on a national level in various disciplines. The Flames, Stampeders and Roughnecks are all particularly successful and represent Calgary with pride in their respective leagues. If you’re looking for a great sports experience, there’s no better place to go than Calgary!