Fans were cheering at the Portage Terriers' pep rally earlier this evening at the PCU Centre.

Dozens showed up for the open practice at 6:30, with the PCU Centre's lobby filling up by 7:30 when the boys came out from the dressing room. Terriers' Marketing Manager Heather Jordan was impressed by the number of fans, and says the event is really for the players to say thank you to them.

People lining up to get to meet the Terriers' players

"This was a great opportunity for the boys to thank the community that has supported them all year. That's been a resounding response, they just wanted to get in front of these kids who are catching the t-shirts, making the signs, and the people who buy tickets day in and day out."

Local fan Greg Kirk took in the event. He's still shocked Portage did as well as they did this season.

Captain Kirk! (Greg Kirk)

"I never thought that after losing so many players last year that we'd have a chance to go back to the Western's, and possibly the RBC Cup. Must have some good scouts, and tremendous coaching."

The Terriers first game of the Western Canada Cup is Saturday against Melfort of the SJHL.