 Since 2002, the team has eliminated its 3 million dollar debt, aided mostly by hosting the Grey Cup Championship Game, and by the provincial government forgiving over $1 million of debt.Nevertheless, rising attendance also played a significant part as Shivers had restored respectability to the Riders which excited the fans to come out in greater numbers.The Riders had also made the playoffs in four straight years, including two Western Division Finals in a row (2003–2004).