As Canadians, it’s no surprise that we love our sports. From the football to the hockey games it can seem like there’s always something to watch on tv. With the summer heat beginning to reach its highest, patios are the place to be to enjoy watching your favourite sports team make a run for the championship. Of all the major sports leagues, the CFL is the only one that seems to still be having some issues even during the end game of the pandemic. Still, fans should be excited that the commissioner of the CFL Randy Ambrosie confirms that players will be returning to the field in 2021.
Here’s the most updated news on exactly what’s been happening with the CFL over the last year and a half.
See also: Toronto Sports Peak While Covid Dips: Here’s How to Support your Favourite Teams
It was early in March of 2020 when the first COVID cases started popping up in Canada. At this point, no one could have predicted the long-lasting effects this would have. After first being delayed, and then requesting financial assistance from the federal government, Ambrosie would soon cancel the 2020 football season in August of last year.
According to a CBC article, the CFL requested a starting sum of $30 million to aid the start of their season but unfortunately, no agreement was made. To the disappointment of all CFL fans, the Grey Cup was not revealed for the first time since 1919. Furthermore, it is estimated that the League lost between $60 and $80 million because of its cancelled season. Ambrosie is quoted in an interview as saying “I do feel I am responsible for the fact that we are not on the field this year, But I resolve to learn from what we’ve experienced and I’m looking forward to a bright future.”
Despite his efforts to get players back on the field and football back on TV, many fans are not pleased with Ambrosie’s decision-making. Although the state of the CFL was not looking good almost exactly one year ago, the board of governors did reveal that the 2021 season will be taking place. Yup, you read that right. Even after massive losses in 2020 and receiving no government loans, Canadian football will be returning to TV next month.
It’s important to note that some changes have been made to the workings of the 2021 season. These include a delayed start on August 5th and therefore, a lesser number of total games played. Unfortunately, all teams are expected to suffer financial losses due to these adjustments.
Hope is not lost for the CFL
Only the fans have the ability to give their favourite teams the profitable season they need after a year of no football. Just by tuning in to the game on TV, you are able to add to the hype and rivalry between the teams. The CFL has been a part of Canada’s history for more than a century and there is no other league that provides as much support to local communities in Canada. Where else will you watch the Hamilton Tiger Cats go head to head with the Toronto Argonauts? Or the Saskatchewan Roughriders battle the Winnipeg Blue Bombers? It’s through the passion of these local communities that makes the CFL so special to watch and be a part of as Canadians.
Featured Image: Johany Jutras/CFL.ca