Game on! đ Huge thanks to Football Niagara, Football Ontario, and Football Canada for helping make our Kids Camp possible! Brought to you by Football Niagara, Football Ontario, and Football Canada, we're building skills, making memories, and having fun on and off the field!
Thank you to USW District 6 and Access Storage for making this event possible!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 28, 2025
CFLPA Academy Announces New Educational Partnership with Western University Continuing Studies
Niagara Falls, ON â The Canadian Football League Playersâ Association (CFLPA) is excited to announce a new partnership with Western University Continuing Studies (WCS). This partnership will provide CFLPA Academy members, both active and alumni, as well as their families with expanded educational opportunities to support their professional and personal development.
Through this collaboration, CFLPA members will gain access to a wide range of courses offered by WCS. Additionally, beginning in 2026, WCS is seeking to establish customized certificate programs tailored to the professional development needs of CFLPA members, thus allowing participants to build on their learning experiences in a structured and meaningful way.
âEducation plays a vital role in the lives of our members, both during and after their playing careers,â said CFLPA Executive Director David Mackie, a Western University alumnus. âThis partnership with Western University Continuing Studies is an exciting step forward in ensuring that CFL players, alumni, and their families have access to quality education that can help them transition into new careers after their playing days have concluded. Western University played a monumental role in my education personally, and I could not be more excited to help bring all the school has to offer, to our members.â
âThis collaboration with Western University Continuing Studies reaffirms our commitment to supporting CFLPA members beyond the field,â said CFLPA President Solomon Elimimian. âBy investing in education and personal development, we are providing our players with valuable resources to prepare for life after football.â
âAt Western Continuing Studies, we believe that lifelong learning is the key to success in an ever-changing world," said WCS Executive Director Amrit Ahluwalia. "This partnership with the CFLPA Academy is a testament to our commitment to helping CFL players, alumni, and their families build meaningful careers beyond football. We are proud to support their journey from the field to new professional opportunities by providing access to high-quality, flexible education and professional development opportunities.â
The CFLPA remains steadfast in its commitment to enhancing the long-term success of its members, and this partnership with Western University Continuing Studies aligns with the associationâs efforts to provide meaningful benefits and opportunities to all members.
Niagara Falls, ON â During itâs 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM), the Canadian Football League Playersâ Association (CFLPA) held an election to fill it's vacant board spot. The CFLPA is proud to announce that Mike Benson has been elected to the board of directors as 3rd Vice President. Benson, effectively immediately will fill the board seat previously held by current Executive Director, David Mackie.
âOn behalf of our entire association, I would like to welcome Mike Benson to our Board of Directors,â said CFLPA President, Solomon Elimimian,. âI look forward to continue working with this board to further our objectives and represent our members both on and off the field to the best of our abilities."
Current CFL Playersâ Association Board of Directors:
President Solomon Elimimian
1st Vice President Brett Lauther
2nd Vice President Jake Thomas
3rd Vice President Mike Benson
Treasurer Adam Bighill
Executive Director David Mackie
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About the CFLPA: The Canadian Football League Playersâ Association (CFLPA) is the union for professional football players in the Canadian Football League (CFL). Since 1965, the Association has worked to establish fair and reasonable working conditions while protecting the rights of all CFL players. In addition to negotiating and enforcing the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the CFLPA provides a variety of member services, builds corporate and community partnerships, and works diligently for the betterment of its membership. For the latest news regarding the CFLPA, please visit www.cflpa.com or follow us on social media @CFLPA.Â
CFLPA Media Contact:⯠Brendan Heisler, CFLPA Office | b.heisler@cflpa.com
For Immediate Release
February 24, 2025
CFLPA Appoints David Mackie as New Executive Director
| Mississauga, ON - The Canadian Football League Playersâ Association (CFLPA) is pleased to announce the appointment of David Mackie as its new Executive Director. Following an extensive national search conducted in partnership with Alexander Whitehead Executive Search firm, Mackie has been selected to lead the CFLPA in its ongoing mission to protect and advance the rights and interests of CFL players. Mackie will serve as the second full-time Executive Director in the Playersâ Associationâs history.  Mackie, a former CFL player, brings a wealth of experience in leadership, advocacy, and player representation. He served as a Player Representative for his team, the BC Lions, for five years (2019-2023) and was elected as the CFLPAâs 3rd Vice President during the 2024 season. His deep understanding of the game, combined with his passion for supporting his fellow athletes, makes him an ideal choice to guide the CFLPA into the future.  âI am truly honored to take on the role of Executive Director for the CFLPA,â said Mackie. âAs a very recently retired former player, I understand firsthand the challenges and opportunities that our members face. I am committed to ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are protected as we work together to strengthen our association and our league.â  In addition to Mackieâs appointment, the CFLPA is also enhancing its legal operations with the addition of Andre Goguen, as in-house legal counsel/COO. The expertise of employing a trained labour lawyer in this position will provide the association with the ability to address grievances more efficiently and expedite legal matters concerning player representation. Long-time CFLPA General Counsel, Art Vertlieb, will be moving into a Senior Legal Advisor role within the association.  CFLPA President Solomon Elimimian expressed his confidence in Mackieâs leadership and the future of the organization, âDavid brings the passion, and leadership necessary to build on the progress we have made as a union. His dedication to our members and vision for the future will be invaluable in advancing the CFLPAâs mission. We are also excited to have a trained labour lawyer joining our team to further strengthen our legal capabilities.â  The CFLPA would also like to extend its gratitude to Peter Dyakowski, who served as Interim Executive Director during a pivotal transition period. His leadership and insights have been instrumental in shaping the direction of the association, and many of his contributions will continue to have a lasting impact. âWe are grateful to Peter for stepping up during this time of transition,â added Elimimian. âHis hard work and commitment to our organization and members have helped position us for future success.â "Our transition is already well-underway; I've been spending time daily with David for the past several weeks, ensuring that there will be no disruption in services to our members over the course of this evolution in our leadership", said Interim Executive Director, Peter Dyakowski. "I'm thankful for the support of our staff, directors, and membership over the course of this important period of growth in our association." About the CFLPA: The Canadian Football League Playersâ Association (CFLPA) is the union for professional football players in the Canadian Football League (CFL). Since 1965, the Association has worked to establish fair and reasonable working conditions while protecting the rights of all CFL players. In addition to negotiating and enforcing the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the CFLPA provides a variety of member services, builds corporate and community partnerships, and works diligently for the betterment of its membership. For the latest news regarding the CFLPA, please visit www.cflpa.com or follow us on social media @CFLPA. For all CFLPA Media Inquiries - Contact:⯠Brendan Heisler | b.heisler@cflpa.com | 647-453-4848 |
Thank you to everyone that joined #TeamCFLPA during the 111th GreyCup in Vancouver! This amazing annual event would not have been possible without the support of our amazing partners in Athabasca University and the United Steelworkers here in Canada.
Thanks to Football Canada and the BC Provincial Football Association for your support and amazing membership(s)!
| (Vancouver, BC) - At each Grey Cup, the Canadian Football League Playersâ Association has the honour of presenting the Tom Pate Award. It is an award presented not just for oneâs ability to perform on the field, but rather it is an award given to a player who also displays qualities that distinguish them from their peers off the field as well. The CFLPA is proud to announce Adam Bighill from the Winnipeg Blue Bombers as the 2024 Tom Pate Award recipient. Throughout his years in Winnipeg, Adamâs dedication goes far beyond the field, dedicating his time within the Winnipeg community.  As the President of Making Faces, he inspires confidence and resilience in young people facing facial differences, guiding them to embrace their uniqueness with strength. He also shares his passion for football and youth development through Recruit Ready, where he coaches varsity and youth athletes, participates in fundraisers, and lends his expertise in board meetings. In addition, Adam contributes his time to Football Manitoba, coaching flag football, and supports the Manitoba Minor Football Association, helping to nurture the next generation of football talent. His commitment to giving back is a shining example of leadership, and we are thrilled to recognize him for his incredible impact. Tom Pate had a unique combination of outstanding sportsmanship, dedication and sense of community. He was educated at the University of Nebraska where he majored in business administration while playing for the Cornhuskers.  He joined the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in 1975 and as a rookie played 14 regular season games. In October 1975, his life was abruptly ended, when in his fourteenth game against the Stampeders in Calgary, he suffered an aneurysm in the fourth quarter. Pate, only 23 at the time, never regained consciousness and passed away just two days later. Each year, the current CFLPA membership across the league select a teammate to be nominated for this award and represent their respective team. The recipient embodies the qualities that distinguished Tom Pate; qualities that recognize a Player with outstanding sportsmanship, a Player who has made a contribution to his team as well as to his community and to his Association. From the 9 Team nominees, one individual member is selected to receive the honour of being awarded the Tom Pate Award for that season. Previous Recipients of the Tom Pate Memorial Award : 2023 Brett Lauther Saskatchewan Roughriders 2022 Emmanuel Arceneaux Edmonton Elks 2021 Mike Daly Hamilton Tiger Cats 2019 Rob Maver Calgary Stampeders 2018 Ryan King Edmonton Eskimos 2017 Adarius Bowman Edmonton Eskimos 2016 Marco Iannuzzi B.C. Lions 2015 Henry Burris Ottawa RedBlacks 2014 Randy Chevrier Calgary Stampeders 2013 Kyries Hebert Montreal Alouettes 2012 Brian Bratton Montreal Alouettes 2011 Kevin Glenn Hamilton Tiger Cats 2010 Wes Lysack Calgary Stampeders 2009 Marwan Hage Hamilton Tiger Cats 2008 Jeremy OâDay Saskatchewan Roughriders  2007 Milt Stegall Winnipeg Blue Bombers 2006 Mark Washington B.C. Lions 2005 Danny McManus Hamilton Tiger Cats 2004 Barron Miles Montreal Alouettes 2003 Steve Hardin B.C. Lions 2002 Greg Frers Calgary Stampeders 2001 Rick Walters Edmonton Eskimos 2000 Mike Morreale Hamilton Tiger Cats 1999 Jamie Taras B.C. Lions 1998 Glen Scrivener Winnipeg Blue Bombers 1997 Mark McLoughlin  Calgary Stampeders 1996 Michael âPinballâ Clemons Toronto Argonauts 1995 Mark McLoughlin  Calgary Stampeders 1994 O.J. Brigance Baltimore Stallions 1993 Michael âPinballâ Clemons Toronto Argonauts 1992 Danny Barrett B.C. Lions 1991 Stu Laird Calgary Stampeders 1990 Ritchie Hall Saskatchewan Roughriders 1989 Matt Dunigan B.C. Lions 1988 Hector Pothier Edmonton Eskimos 1987 Nick Arakgi Montreal Alouettes 1986 Tyrone Crews B.C. Lions 1985 Jerry Friesen Saskatchewan Roughriders 1984 Bruce Walker Ottawa Rough Riders 1983 Henry Waszczuk Hamilton Tiger Cats 1982 David Boone Edmonton Eskimos 1981 Ken McEachern Saskatchewan Roughriders 1980 Jim Codde Ottawa Rough Riders 1979 Peter Muller Toronto Argonauts 1978 John Helton Calgary Stampeders 1977 Ron Lancaster Saskatchewan Roughriders 1976 George Reed Saskatchewan Roughriders |
About the CFLPA: The Canadian Football League Playersâ Association (CFLPA) is the union for professional football players in the Canadian Football League (CFL). Since 1965, the Association has worked to establish fair and reasonable working conditions while protecting the rights of all CFL players. In addition to negotiating and enforcing the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the CFLPA provides a variety of member services, builds corporate and community partnerships, and works diligently for the betterment of its membership. For the latest news regarding the CFLPA, please visit www.cflpa.com or follow us on social media @CFLPA.
CFLPA Media Contact:âŻ
Brendan Heisler, CFLPA Office |Â b.heisler@cflpa.com | 647-453-4848
âŻÂ CFLPA AND SASKATCHEWAN POLYTECHNIC OFFICIALLY ANNOUNCE THE 2024 CFLPA PLAYERS HQ AT MAHONYâS TAVERN. âŻÂ
CFLPA Players HQ, powered by Saskatchewan Polytechnic will run from Thursday, November 14th, through Saturday, November 16th, at Mahonyâs Tavern in Vancouver, BC.
Toronto, ON - Today, the Canadian Football League Playersâ Association (CFLPA) and Saskatchewan Polytechnic announced the details of the CFLPA HQ during the 111thâŻGrey Cup week in Vancouver, British Columbia.
The 2024 CFLPA Playersâ HQ, powered by Saskatchewan Polytechnic, will be a great opportunity for Canadian football fans to meet and interact with both current and former CFLPA members. The annual CFLPA Grey Cup week party is free to attend and invites fans to enjoy autograph signings, games, giveaways, pictures with the Grey Cup, and much more!
Solomon Elimimian, CFLPA President, expressed his excitement about uniting Canadian football fans across the nation at the 2024 CFLPA Players Headquarters. "Our players always look forward to connecting with their supporters, and we can't wait to create an unforgettable experience for everyone to enjoy during this yearâs Grey Cup celebrations, he said.
Pete Mahony, Managing Partner at Mahonyâs Tavern, echoed the enthusiasm, stating, âAs huge football fans ourselves, we couldnât be more excited to partner with the CFLPA as the official HQ for the Grey Cup Festival. With a full week of events planned, including CFL player appearances, VIP events, giveaways, and the Grey Cup itself on-site, weâre thrilled to be at the heart of it all as we gear up for event week.
âOver the last few years, weâve seen firsthand the energy this city brings in support of its local sports teams. Hosting the Festival in Vancouver is a true testament to our cityâs passion.â
The 2024 CFLPA Playersâ HQ, powered by Saskatchewan Polytechnic, will be free of charge and open to everyone on a first come, first serve basis.âŻâŻ
The event will be held at Mahonyâs Tavern. 1055 Canada Pl, #36, Vancouver BC, V63 OC3.
More details regarding specific eventsâŻwill be released in the days and weeks leading up the 111th Grey Cup Festival!âŻ
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About the CFLPA: The Canadian Football League Playersâ Association (CFLPA) is the union for professional football players in the Canadian Football League (CFL). Since 1965, the Association has worked to establish fair and reasonable working conditions while protecting the rights of all CFL players. In addition to negotiating and enforcing the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the CFLPA provides a variety of member services, builds corporate and community partnerships, and works diligently for the betterment of its membership. For the latest news regarding the CFLPA, please visit www.cflpa.com or follow us on social media @CFLPA.âŻ
About Mahonyâs Tavern: Known for offering a laid-back West Coast pub experience, Mahonyâs Tavern is the evolution of a brand that began in 2006 in Vancouver as Mahony & Sons. A place where visitors and locals alike can come together to indulge in the art of casual consumption to enjoy classic fare and beverages from B.C. and beyond, Mahonyâs Tavern prides itself on its signature sense of hospitality and unparalleled service. With two lively venues featuring expansive dining rooms, private group spaces, and patios with picture-perfect views of the ocean, mountains and cityscapes for which Vancouver is famously known, Mahonyâs Tavern is proud to welcome guests to its iconic False Creek and freshly renovated Convention Centre locations.
âŻ
CFLPA Media Contact:âŻâŻ
Brendan Heisler, CFLPA Office |âŻb.heisler@cflpa.com |âŻ647-453-4848
SMC Communications Inc. for Mahonyâs Tavern:
âKiitan Owoyele | kiitan@shelleymcarthur.com | 778-836-8854
The Canadian Football League Players Association (the CFLPA) was established in 1965 with the goal of establishing fair and reasonable working conditions for the players in the Canadian Football League (the CFL). The CFLPA office is based in Mississauga, Ontario and is led by a five-member Executive Board of Directors. Each of the nine member teams elects two player representatives who vote to elect members of the Executive Board. The Executive Board is supported by an administration team, advisory board, and additional consultants, led by the Executive director. The CFLPA represents every player in the nine-team league (approximately 540 players) and negotiates the collective bargaining agreement on behalf of its membership.
The CFLPA is seeking a new Executive Director. The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors and leads a team of staff administrators. The Executive Director is responsible for the overall day-to-day management of the CFLPA, including implementing Board policy to align with the mission of the CFLPA, handling grievances and other issues with the CFL, and developing partnership opportunities for the players. The Executive Director is the spokesperson for the CFLPA and will also establish, maintain, and grow relationships with the players and player representatives, the Board, staff, the CFL, professional advisors, sponsors, and alumni. Additionally, the Executive Director attends all CFL meetings on behalf of the CFLPA and serves as the primary spokesperson with media, government stakeholders, and other player associations and professional leagues.
The successful candidate joins the CFLPA with deep experience working within the Canadian labour union environment, preferably with a legal or business background in the sports or entertainment sectors. The candidate should have experience with collective bargaining, grievance processes, and acting as a spokesperson for a high-profile not-for-profit organization. Experience working in professional sports and/or a background in team sports and an understanding of football, is strongly preferred. The successful candidate requires advanced business acumen and natural leadership skills with a demonstrated capacity to engage stakeholders and collaborate effectively with the Board, staff, and membership.
Interested and qualified individuals are encouraged to submit their resume and cover letter in confidence to CFLPA@alexanderwhitehead.com by December 1, 2024.
We thank all applicants for their interest but only those considered for an interview will be contacted. Finalist candidates will undergo third-party psychometric testing, professional reference checks, and a comprehensive criminal, academic, and professional accreditation verification process.
Compensation Salary Range is $150,000 to $200,000 plus comprehensive benefits. Final salary will be based on the skills and experience of the successful candidate.
Location and Travel Requirements: The Executive Director can be based in any Canadian community and can work in a remote location environment. The successful candidate is expected to be comfortable working in a virtual and dynamic office environment and will be provided with the necessary technology and support to effectively execute their duties regardless of location.
The Executive Director is required to travel frequently â up to 35 percent depending on their place of residence â to maintain profile with the membership.
The CFLPA provides equal employment opportunity to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, provincial or local law. In addition, the CFLPA welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities.
Accommodation is available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.
Alexander Whitehead Executive Search is a boutique executive search firm based in Vancouver, British Columbia. Since our inception in 2013, Alexander Whitehead has completed over 500 executive and senior management search assignments for private and public sector organizations across North America.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEÂ Â
October 2, 2024
CFLPA launches search for new Executive Director
Mississauga, ON. - The Canadian Football League Playersâ Association (CFLPA) has officially launched its search for its new Executive Director.
âThe CFLPA Executive Director position is an important part of our team,â said CFLPA President Solomon Elimimian. âWe are looking for someone who is fearless and motivated, collaborative and passionate about people and sport. Iâd like to encourage all qualified candidates, who are serious about leading growth and creating positive change and advocacy on behalf of others, to apply.â
Led by Canadian-based executive search firm Alexander Whitehead Executive Search, the CFLPA is seeking an experienced senior leader and collaborator with a powerful vision who has a strong track record working within or with intimate understanding of the Canadian labour union environment, including strategic planning experience leading collective negotiations.
The ideal candidate will possess strong business and legal acumen, the ability to build and cultivate relationships across industries and will have relevant experience in the sports and/or entertainment sector.
The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors and leads a team of office staff administrators and other support staff. The CFLPA represents more than 540 members in the Canadian Football League.
Qualified candidates should inquire for details and/or send their resume and cover letter to Alexander Whitehead at cflpa@alexanderwhitehead.com before December 1, 2024.
About Alexander Whitehead
Alexander Whitehead Executive Search was established in 2013 and is headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia. We specialize in executive placements in the public and private sectors and work with enterprises operating regionally, nationally, and internationally.
About the CFLPA
The Canadian Football League Playersâ Association (CFLPA) is the union for professional football players in the Canadian Football League (CFL). Since 1965, the Association has worked to establish fair and reasonable working conditions while protecting the rights of all CFL players. In addition to negotiating and enforcing the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the CFLPA provides a variety of member services, builds corporate and community partnerships and works diligently for the betterment of its membership. Find us online at cflpa.com.
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For more information: Brendan Heisler, CFLPA Office, b.heisler@cflpa.com  (647)-453-4848
In this course you'll hone competencies to excel in self, team, and organizational leadership within a sports context. Dive into real-world sport cases and challenges as your training ground.
Collaborate with your cohort and instructor to pinpoint your leadership strengths and chart a personal development path.
This course is open enrolment and enjoys a diverse learning community of sport leaders from practitioners, to sport administrators, officials, sport journalists, athletes, directors, agents and advisors.
Sincere and ongoing thanks to Dr. Jennifer Walinga, and the full Royal Roads University team for your collaboration, and continued hard work!
