T.J. Lee is a Canadian Football League Players’ Association (CFLPA) Player Representative for the BC Lions. Lee, a native of Seattle, Washington, played his university Football with the Eastern Washington Eagles of the NCAA, before eventually joining the BC Lions in 2014. T.J. is now in his 9th season with the Lions, having racked up an impressive 478 tackles and 24 interceptions over the course of his career.
As he enters his first year as a Player Representative for the CFLPA, we sat down with T.J. and asked him the following questions:
- Why did you want to become a CFLPA Player rep?
I wanted to become a PA rep to extend my role as a leader of the team. I also wanted to expand my knowledge on player relations and protocol.
- This is your 9th season playing in BC. How do you like living in Vancouver and how does it compare to Seattle where you grew up?
I was born in Houston and raised in Seattle. I am actually living in the states - Blaine, WA. It’s very similar to Seattle though and has pretty quickly become my home. It is nice to be able to go to Seattle whenever we desire and be able to visit with family.
- What is your favorite memory from playing football at Eastern Washington?
I met my wife in college so that’s one of my favorite memories. From a football perspective, it would have to be playing on the red turf and winning a National Championship.
- What are some of your favorite things to do away from football and in the offseason?
I love to go on vacations with my family, hang out with my kids, and play frisbee golf. I love teaching my kids new things in my free time.
- What is your ideal bye week during the season.
My ideal bye week is being somewhere close to water with my family. I will also receive treatments such as physical/mental therapy sessions, and massages.
- What advice would you have for any players who want to pursue a career in pro football?
Attack your goals. Always believe in yourself and dont doubt yourself if you are putting in the work. Hard work builds confidence.
- Who has inspired/helped you the most in your Football Career?
Some people who have inspired me during my football career would have to be, Coach Torey Hunter, Aaron Grymes, current CFLPA President Solomon Elimimian, and Ryan Phillips.
CFLPA Academy members, Bailey Feltmate, Michael O’Connor, and Tyler Turner will each receive a full scholarship to complete their firefighting training through Training Division .
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