Welcome to Fan Central! In this section, you’ll find everything you need to ensure you can enjoy all that the International Bowl has to offer!

Read more about the 2008 International Bowl!

What better place to wrap up the 2007 football season than Toronto – home to North America’s oldest professional football franchise. There’s no question Toronto is a great football town – in addition to having the Canadian Football League’s Toronto Argonauts, in 2007 Toronto will play host to the Grey Cup – Canada’s professional football national championship, and the Vanier Cup, our national university football championship.

What makes Toronto such a great city for sports? Let’s start with Rogers Centre—a multi-purpose stadium situated next to the CN Tower near the shores of Lake Ontario. Home to Major League Baseball's Toronto Blue Jays and the Canadian Football League's Toronto Argonauts, Rogers Centre was the first stadium in the world with a fully retractable motorized roof.

Rogers Centre includes other options for dining and hospitality, including:

• Renaissance Hotel: a 340-room hotel, which features 70 rooms overlooking the field

• Windows Restaurant: a 400 seat fine-dining restaurant overlooking the field

• Sightlines Club Restaurant: two-tiered, 280 seat restaurant overlooking the field

• Bistro: 210 seat restaurant overlooking the field

• The Hard Rock Café: overlooking the field, home to the world’s largest electric guitar

In Toronto you have everything at your finger tips. Great hotels within walking distance of the stadium, incredible attractions like the CN Tower and Hockey Hall of Fame. Toronto’s fabulous Entertainment District has whatever you’re looking for, including clubs, restaurants and theatres, museums, shopping and art galleries.

The United Nations has named Toronto the most diverse city in the world. A transit token can take you from one country to another, passing through the quaint neighbourhoods that make up our intimate metropolis. Toronto’s more than 7,000 restaurants reflect tastes, cultures and ingredients from around the world. From upscale to down home, you’ll find dining experiences and culinary adventures to satisfy every taste.

A City for All Seasons

Situated on the northern shore of Lake Ontario, Toronto is one of the southernmost cities in Canada - in fact, the latitude is very close to that of northern California. And while it does snow from time to time, you’ll be amazed where you can get to on the PATH - Toronto's underground city. Named by the Guinness Book of Records as the "Biggest Underground Shopping Complex", with over ten kilometres of underground, indoor pedestrian walkways linking hotels, shopping, dining and major attractions. In fact, you can walk most of the way indoors from the Sheraton Hotel to Rogers Centre.

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Toronto Sports Association Press Conference
December 5th, 6th, or 7th TBD
11:30am – 1:00pm

The Head Coach and a star player from each team will meet the Toronto media and have the opportunity to discuss his team, the season, and preparations for the bowl game. Lunch will be served at the Rogers Centre at 11:30 a.m. followed by Head Coach introductions, comments, and one-on-one opportunities.

Welcome Reception and Dinner at Casa Loma
Wednesday, January 2nd

Representatives from the City of Toronto, Toronto Tourism, our media partners and the Rogers Centre will join Athletic Directors, Coaching Staffs, Official Travel Party members, International Bowl Sponsors and VIP Guests for an elegant reception at Casa Loma, Toronto’s landmark castle. Select officials and the two Head Coaches highlight a brief program.

Players Nights in Toronto’s Entertainment District
Wednesday and Thursday, January 2nd and 3rd

Toronto is a place to see and be seen when the sun goes down. On Wednesday and Thursday evenings, players will enjoy some of the finest dining and entertainment in North America. With lights flashing, bands playing, and the dance floors full, team members can get away for a few hours of youthful enjoyment. Some restrictions will apply.

Stadium Tours
Thursday and Friday, January 3rd and 4th

The Rogers Centre offers a remarkable behind the scenes tour of this engineering wonder. A retractable roof, moving seating sections, and removable baseball and football field turf are just a few of the truly unique features.

CN Tower Tour and Hockey Hall of Fame
Times to be confirmed

We’ve included two of Toronto’s most unique attractions on the schedule - the CN Tower and the Hockey Hall of Fame. The CN Tower is the World’s Tallest Building, it soars more than 1,815 feet and offers a breath-taking view.

What could be more Canadian than hockey? And where better to explore the national game than the Hockey Hall of Fame! Players will have a chance to take shots at real-time goalies; stop the shots of Gretzky and Messier; call the play-by-play; and get up close and personal with the Stanley Cup.

Kickoff Luncheon at the Westin Harbour Castle
Friday, January 4th

Starwood Hotels & Resorts is the host sponsor for the International Bowl. At the Westin Harbour Castle hotel a grand luncheon will be served at 12:15 for an expected crowd of over 400. The two Head Coaches will share the spotlight as guest speakers, and guests include sponsor representatives, city officials, both teams, Travel Party members and VIP’s.

Toronto Highlights
Thursday, January 3rd

While the players and coaches are practicing at the Rogers Centre, members of the Travel Party have an opportunity to see some of Toronto’s best known attractions. Join Toronto Tours for an exclusive International Bowl visit to our exciting museums, galleries and shops. Executive coaches will depart the Sheraton Centre and Harbour Castle at noon, and return by 5:00 pm. Space is limited.

Battle of the Marching Bands
Friday, January 4th

Don’t wait until game day to be in downtown Toronto. On Friday evening at 5:30 p.m. the marching bands will face off at Nathan Phillips Square. Each band will perform their school’s fight song, and then alternate with selected numbers. After crowning the winner, band members and fans filter into the many eateries and pubs in the finest Entertainment District in North America.

Game Day Pep Rally
Saturday, January 5th

The International Bowl gets off to a rousing start as each school hosts a pre-game pep rally at the Rogers Centre. Join the marching bands and cheerleaders for a pre-game performance and rally on the stadium plaza prior to entering the stadium.

International Bowl Game
Saturday, January 5th

The 2nd Annual International Bowl continues a great holiday tradition for the City of Toronto, the Big East Conference, and the Mid-American Conference. The coin will be tossed at Noon and the winner will be decided on the field.

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Getting to Toronto

From Fort Erie or Niagara Falls
If crossing into Canada at Fort Erie, from Interstate 90 take the Peace Bridge/Canada exit. If crossing at Niagara Falls, take the Rainbow Bridge. After entering Canada, take the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) to Toronto. QEW changes to Gardiner Expressway in Toronto. Take the Spadina Avenue exit from the Gardiner Expressway and follow the signs to the Rogers Centre. Surface parking is available in several lots around the Rogers Centre, on Queen’s Quay and Front Street.

From Windsor-Detroit
Enter via the Ambassador Bridge. After entering Canada, take Highway 3 to Highway 401 east for 139 miles to Exit 235 to Highway 403 east. Continue on Highway 403 for 64 miles, onto Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW). QEW changes to Gardiner Expressway in Toronto. Take the Spadina Avenue exit from the Gardiner Expressway and follow the signs to the Rogers Centre. Surface parking is available in several lots around the Rogers Centre, on Queen’s Quay and Front Street.

From Port Huron
Take I-69 or I-94 to the Bluewater Bridge. After entering Canada, take Highway 402 East to Highway 401 (approximately 64 miles). Take Highway 401 east 31 miles to Exit 235 to Highway 403 east. Continue on Highway 403 for 64 miles. onto Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW). QEW changes to Gardiner Expressway in Toronto. Take the Spadina Avenue exit from the Gardiner Expressway and follow the signs to the Rogers Centre. Surface parking is available in several lots around the Rogers Centre, on Queen’s Quay and Front Street.

Downtown Map

Click the map below to enlarge.

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From the world’s tallest building to distinct multi-cultural neighbourhoods, you’ll find lots to do in Toronto. Ready for some exercise – try renting ice-skates at Nathan Phillips Square. Tourism Toronto offers a comprehensive listing of attractions, events, museums, galleries, shopping and dining. Check out their on-line Visitors Guide at www.mytorontomeeting.com

Sightseeing, Tours, Tickets

To help you get the most out of your visit to Toronto, Toronto Tours (www.torontotours.com) operates friendly and courteous concierge desks at the Sheraton Centre and Westin Harbour Castle. Toronto Tours staff will be glad to answer any questions you might have about tours, restaurants, city attractions, shopping, and more. Visit the Toronto Tours concierge desk in the lobby for more information on:

• Tour and attraction tickets

• Restaurant recommendations and reservations

• City information and directions

• Shopping information

• Theatre tickets

• Car rentals

• Transportation

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American visitors crossing the border by land (car, bus, train) do not require a passport to enter Canada or re-enter the United States at this time. Visitors may be asked to verify citizenship and show photo identification; it is recommended to carry a valid driver’s license and one of the following documents: birth certificate, naturalization certificate, Green Card or passport.

The U.S. Government recently updated the requirements for travelers crossing the boarder by land and sea in 2008. For complete details, we recommend you visit the U.S. Department of State website at: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html.

American visitors traveling by air require a valid passport to re-enter the United States.

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The following hotels have been selected and approved as Official International Bowl Hotels, and offer a variety of special International Bowl rates. For preferred hotel rates click here.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts – Headquarters for the International Bowl

The International Bowl is pleased to announce that Starwood Hotels & Resorts will once again provide the Team Headquarters Hotels for the International Bowl. Starwood Hotels & Resorts will also sponsor the Kickoff Luncheon.

Westin Harbour Castle (Big East)

Featuring breathtaking views of Lake Ontario and the city skyline, the hotel is a 15-minute walk from Rogers Centre. The Westin Harbour Castle is located close to other major attractions such as the Air Canada Centre, CN Tower, the Entertainment District and the Eaton Centre.

A 20-year recipient of the CAA/AAA Four Diamond Award, The Westin Harbour Castle is a landmark in hospitality. Each of the 977 guest rooms provides the utmost in luxury and comfort to all travelers. Contained within The Westin Harbour Castle are a vast array of facilities and services, including a world-class conference centre, and multiple upscale restaurants that offer a premier culinary experience.

The Westin Harbour Castle will be home to the Big East team and all their staff, administration, alumni and fans.

Sheraton Centre (MAC)

In the heart of the business and entertainment districts, the CAA/AAA Four Diamond Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel is conveniently connected to Toronto's underground PATH, a 10- kilometre network of offices, shops, and services.

The Sheraton Centre is the city’s pre-eminent destination hotel for business or leisure. It boasts a premier business centre and full conference facilities that are renowned for exceptional service and flawless event hosting. You'll also enjoy Toronto's largest year-round pool, a 24-hour fitness centre and numerous unique dining options.

The Sheraton Centre will be home to the MAC team and all their staff, administration, alumni and fans.

Novotel

Novotel is an official hotel of the International Bow. Located in downtown Toronto, within walking distance of many attractions such as the Air Canada Centre, the Hockey Hall of Fame, Rogers Centre, the Eaton Centre and Union Station. Indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, gym, restaurant, room service, banquet and meeting facilities. Public underground car park (charges apply) and public transport within walking distance.

Renaissance Toronto Hotel Downtown

The Renaissance Toronto Hotel Downtown will serve as the official media headquarters for the International Bowl and will house the media check-in and workrooms as well as overnight accommodations and hospitality.

The Renaissance Toronto Hotel Downtown is ideally located within Rogers Centre—the world's only 4 diamond hotel located within a major league sports and entertainment venue. Guests can watch their team warm up while enjoying a drink in the lounge or just soak in the unique view into the Rogers Centre. The Renaissance Toronto Hotel Downtown is in the heart of Toronto’s Toronto's famous entertainment district, minutes from the CN Tower as well as the best theatres, restaurants and shopping.

Special packages are also available for fans.

Holiday Inn on King

Strategically located at the core of Canada's largest business centre and dynamic entertainment district, the Holiday Inn On King confidently plays host to the world. Just steps away are spectacular attractions, fusion dining, fabulous shopping and world class theatres that make Toronto a truly world-class city.

Our guests enjoy the comfort of our spacious deluxe guest rooms and suites complete with in-room amenities. Our staff is committed to hospitality excellence to guarantee each and every guest's complete satisfaction.

Hilton Toronto

Spoil yourself with award-winning cuisine and a central location at the Hilton Toronto hotel, 10 minutes' walk from the CN Tower. Swim in the pool year round or do business in meeting rooms with wireless internet access.

Toronto attractions are nearby - from the Four Seasons Performing Arts Centre to the CN Tower, Harborfront and Toronto Islands. A subterranean walkway leads to over 1000 shops. Guests can indulge in aperitifs in Barristers Bar, sizzling steaks at Ruth's Chris Steakhouse or award-winning Canadian cuisine at the TUNDRA Bar and Restaurant. Relax at the sauna, pool or candlelit bar.

Hotel Reservations

The special rates negotiated by the International Bowl at our Official Hotels can only be obtained through the International Bowl reservation service, operated by Tourism Toronto. Reservations for International Bowl Hotels can be made by clicking here for preferred hotel rates or by calling 1-866-371-0398 (United States and Canada) or 416-203-2500 (Toronto and overseas).

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The Mid-American Conference (also referred to as the ‘MAC’), has been referred to as the Conference of Quarterbacks, and ranks as one of the highest among all 11 NCAA Division 1-A conferences for graduation rates.

The Quarterbacking tradition of the MAC continues this year, as the Allstate Sugar Bowl has announced the names of the players to watch for the Manning Award, given to college football’s top quarterback. MAC signal callers Dan LeFevour of Central Michigan and Nate Davis of Ball State were named on the select list of players.

LeFevour was the 2006 MAC Freshman of the Year for leading the Chippewas to the MAC Championship and a victory in the Motor City Bowl. He completed 247-of-388 pass attempts for 3,031 yards and a league-high 26 touchdowns in 2006 as CMU compiled a 10-4 record.

Davis, like LeFevour a freshman last season, topped the league charts in passing efficiency with a rating of 147.3. Davis was on target with 150-of-244 pass attempts for 1,975 yards and 18 touchdowns as the Cardinals completed a 5-3 MAC record, the schools’ first winning conference campaign since 2001.

Will they be the next Ben Roethlisberger, Chad Pennington or Bryon Leftwich?

For more information on the MAC, please visit their website.

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Big East Football is alive, strong and thriving! In 2006, West Virginia, Louisville, and Rutgers all entered November undefeated, setting up an exciting trio of games over the next month that received national attention. Louisville defeated West Virginia 44-34, Rutgers defeated Louisville 28-25 (in the most watched weeknight college football game in history), and West Virginia defeated Rutgers 41-39 (in three overtimes).

Rutgers’ resurgence after a century of mostly futile play was a national story, but Louisville won the conference title in the end. In bowl action, the Big East went 5-0, including the thrilling International Bowl victory by the Cincinnati Bearcats, an Orange Bowl victory for Louisville over surprise ACC champion Wake Forest and a win by West Virginia over ACC championship game runner-up Georgia Tech. Louisville ended the year ranked #6, West Virginia #10, and Rutgers #12.

2007 looks to be another great year for Big East Football, with the national champion and/or the Heisman Trophy winner coming from the Big East Conference. The Big East’s four legitimate Heisman Trophy candidates are: Pat White (Jr., QB) and Steve Slaton (Jr., RB) of West Virginia, Brian Brohm (Sr., QB) of Louisville and Ray Rice (Jr., RB) of Rutgers.

For more information on the Big East Conference, please visit their website.

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You can download and listen to interviews about the 2008 International Bowl by clicking the microphone icons below.

The first interview contains stars Nate Davis, the quarterback from Ball State, and Ray Rice. the running back from Rutgers.

The second interview features the two head coaches Greg Schiano from Rutgers, and Brady Hoke from Ball State, who were interviewed along with International Bowl Director Don Loding about the upcoming game.

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