CALGARY (CFL.ca wire) -- Canadian Football Hall of Fame player Rocco Romano and five-time CFL West Division All-Star Jay McNeil have joined the Calgary Stampeders as community ambassadors.

During their playing careers, McNeil and Romano always made a priority of connecting with the community of Calgary. Both have been successful in retirement and remain highly respected in the city. In their new roles, Romano and McNeil will represent the club at team functions, community appearances and special events.

“We’re excited to have Jay and Rocco with the club again,” said Stampeders president Scott Ackles. “We have several initiatives where they will be a natural fit. There also are times when people request a voice from the Stampeders and players aren’t available, so our ambassadors will represent us."

“Two of our main goals as an organization are to strengthen our relationship with the community and the alumni. This arrangement helps both areas.”

McNeil played 14 seasons in the CFL, all with the Stampeders. He played in four Grey Cups, won two and was a CFL All-Star three times. Romano also played 14 seasons —- including 10 in Calgary —- played in five title matches, won three and was a five-time all-Canadian.

“I’m honoured that the Stampeders approached me with the opportunity to represent the club and players in this capacity,” said Romano. “It’s a very important initiative. I’m glad the Stampeders are in the community to raise the profile of the club but the most important thing is connecting with the city and fans that give us such strong support.”

Romano was at the Redwater Rustic Grille on Friday for the State of the Stamps Luncheon. McNeil currently is attending CFL Players’ Association meetings.