Shirts were optional for A.J. Ouellette and the Riders on Tuesday as they paraded down Albert Street to cheers from Rider Nation.

Fans lined the west side of Albert Street from 13th to 20th Avenue for a chance to see the players and the Grey Cup. One fan even dressed up as Ouellette, complete with beard and Thor’s hammer.

“I’m a big fan. We’re big Rider fans. I’m a big A.J. fan. We’re so proud of the team winning the Grey Cup and bringing the fifth home for us,” he said. “We’re really proud, we’re really happy. Go Riders!”

Younger fans also soaked in the moment, telling CTV News it was an “awesome time.”

“Just coming out here and all the energy around it’s just a great thing. And seeing the players, it’s just amazing energy to be with. And we got the ball that was in the Grey Cup game and we’re here cheering on our team.”

Others reflected on the magnitude of the team’s fifth championship in the Grey Cup’s 112-year history.

“They’re rare, so you have to treat it as if this is the greatest moment of your life and it is for us at Rider Nation.”

Riders head coach Corey Mace fired up the crowd along the route, chanting, “Let’s go, let’s go, let’s go!”

Fans in the sea of green said the Grey Cup feels right at home in Saskatchewan.

“There’s something nostalgic and comforting and homey about just bringing it home. I just feel like the Cup always belongs here.”

For one fan, it was the perfect way to spend a Tuesday afternoon.

“The highlight of my day and last night actually we saw the Grey Cup at the casino. We were lucky enough to see a few of the players there. I think winning the Cup in Winnipeg was almost as sweet as winning it at home.”