Hamilton Tiger-Cats executive vice-president and Brock graduate Doug Rye, left, and Brock University President Jack Lightstone.

More than 100 Brock alumni, friends and members of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats football organization met Feb. 11 at the historic Lister Block in downtown Hamilton to share some food and more than a few laughs.

The reception, hosted by the Brock University Alumni Association, was the first in a series of events taking place in 2014 to recognize Brock’s 50th anniversary.

It was also announced that plans are underway for a Brock-Hamilton Tiger-Cats event to take place in the upcoming CFL season at the Ticats’ new home, Tim Hortons Field, set to open this summer.

Tiger-Cats executive vice-president and Brock graduate Doug Rye (BAdmin ’88) spoke of the many connections between the club and the University.

Standing amid artists’ renderings of the new stadium, Rye said the team’s front office employs 13 Brock alumni working on all aspects of operations, from marketing, game day operations and corporate partnerships to new stadium development and ticket sales.

Brian Hutchings, Brock’s vice-president of finance and administration and a former Ticat offensive lineman, shared some stories from his playing days, including episodes from the team’s training camps on the Brock campus.

Hutchings encouraged alums in the crowd to “come home” this year and celebrate the 50th.

“Brock has grown so much,” he said. “We welcome you back any time to see the many changes on campus.”

Brock President Jack Lightstone, meanwhile, happily donned a special Ticat jersey presented by Rye to acknowledge Brock’s 50th. Lightstone in turn gave Rye a certificate saluting the long-standing association between the two institutions, and Brock’s best wishes for football success in the new stadium.

Lightstone spoke of the University’s concluded “immense pride” for the many graduates who have gone on to successful careers and represent Brock proudly.

“A university’s alumni is a telling measure of the university itself,” said Lightstone, “and we at Brock are truly very proud of our graduates who have gone out to become community builders and leaders, no matter where their community is – here in Hamilton or around the world.”

Brock President Jack Lightstone wears a #50 Hamilton Tiger-Cats jersey.