The CFLPA is excited to announce a new partnership with Pure Vita Labs (PVL). A proudly Canadian brand specializing in clean, third-party tested nutritional supplements.
Through this partnership, CFLPA members and their families can now receive a discount off all PVL products when shopping online at https://ca.pvl.com.
From protein powders and hydration formulas to performance and recovery essentials, PVL offers athletes a trusted lineup of supplements designed to help them perform their best — on and off the field.
“This partnership is about providing our members with access to a Canadian brand they can trust,” said CFLPA Executive Director David Mackie. “We’re not here to tell our athletes what to take, but we’re committed to ensuring that when they do choose supplements, they have access to clean, third-party tested options at a better price.”
In addition to the exclusive discount, this partnership will include future opportunities for players to learn more about nutrition, and for select members to become team champions and brand ambassadors.
Check out some of the PVL products available, and visit https://ca.pvl.com to explore the full collection.
MISSISSAUGA, ON – The Canadian Football League Players’ Association (CFLPA) is proud to announce a new partnership with Boston College’s Woods College of Advancing Studies that will provide all CFLPA Academy members with expanded access to higher education opportunities.
Through this agreement, CFLPA Academy members who enroll in any Woods College degree or certificate program will receive:
A tuition discount per course
Access to informational resources to support their educational journey
Beyond tuition savings, this partnership also creates opportunities for CFLPA members to connect with Woods College leadership and faculty, participate in program planning, and engage in guest lecturing and recruiting initiatives.
“This partnership showcases our ongoing commitment to supporting CFLPA members both on and off the field,” said CFLPA Executive Director, David Mackie. “Education is a priority for preparing players for life beyond football, and Woods College offers flexible, high-quality programs that align with our members’ needs and goals.”
“The Woods College is an international leader in college degree completion,” said Dean David Goodman. “We have a proven track record of helping professional athletes to earn their degrees, which has enabled us to sign agreements with the NHLPA, the NHL and NHL Alumni Association, the Pro Hockey Players' Association, and the Major League Baseball Alumni Association. We are pleased to add the Canadian Football League Players' Association to the Woods College family at Boston College.”
Boston College’s Woods College of Advancing Studies, known for its flexible learning options and professional programs, will work with the CFLPA to ensure members have access to academic pathways that fit their unique schedules and career aspirations.
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About the CFLPA: The Canadian Football League Players’ 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 | admin@cflpa.com | 647-453-4848
CFLPA Announces 2025 Tom Pate Award Nominees Winner to be announced during the CFL Awards in Winnipeg
Mississauga, ON — The Canadian Football League Players’ Association (CFLPA) is proud to announce the nominees for the 2025 Tom Pate Memorial Award, recognizing outstanding sportsmanship, dedication to the league, and significant contributions to team, community, and the players’ association.
Each year, the Tom Pate Award is presented to a CFLPA member who personifies the qualities that made Tom Pate such a respected teammate and community leader. Pate, a former Hamilton Tiger-Cat, tragically passed away in 1975 at the age of 23. In his memory, the award continues to celebrate players who demonstrate a lasting commitment to their peers and to the betterment of their communities.
The nominees for the 2025 Tom Pate Memorial Award are:
BC Lions - Andrew Peirson
Calgary Stampeders - Dominique Rhymes
Edmonton Elks - Nyles Morgan
Hamilton Tiger-Cats - Kenny Lawler
Montreal Alouettes - Geoffrey Cantin-Arku
Ottawa RedBlacks - Tyron Vrede
Saskatchewan Roughriders - Micah Johnson
Toronto Argonauts - Anthony Lanier II
Winnipeg Blue Bombers - Brady Oliveira
The winner will be announced on Thursday, November 13, 2025, during the CFL Awards ceremony in Winnipeg, Manitoba, as part of the 112th Grey Cup festivities.
“The Tom Pate Award represents what it means to be a CFL player both on and off the field,” said Solomon Elimimian, CFLPA President. “Each of these nominees has shown a deep commitment to leadership, integrity, and making a positive impact in our communities.”
The CFLPA extends congratulations to all nominees and thanks them for their contributions to their teams, communities, and the overall spirit of the CFL family.
Mississauga, ON – The Canadian Football League Players’ Association (CFLPA) acknowledges the announcement made today by CFL Commissioner Stewart Johnston regarding significant game changes to be introduced over the next two seasons.
Recently, the CFLPA was informed by Commissioner Johnston following the Board of Governors’ approval of these changes. We respect that the rules and structure of the Canadian Football League are the responsibility of the Board of Governors.
As the voice of CFL players, our top priority remains the health and safety of our members. Through the CFL and CFLPA Joint Health and Safety Committee, the CFLPA will carefully review every aspect of any changes to ensure they do not compromise player well-being in any way.
CFL players are among the most talented and dynamic athletes in professional sports, and our game continues to evolve because of their dedication and skill. We want to ensure that any changes introduced by the league, highlight this talent, enhance the on-field product, and strengthen the overall fan experience.
The CFLPA supports the league’s vision for positive change and sustainable growth. As the CFL looks to expand revenues, the CFLPA remains committed to ensuring that players, who are at the heart of the game, are able to share in that growth and that our members continue to benefit from the success of Canadian football.
About the CFLPA: The Canadian Football League Players’ 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: CFLPA Office | admin@cflpa.com | 647-453-4848
Cards per pack: Hobby – 12 Packs per box: Hobby – 8 Boxes per case: Hobby – 20 (two 10-box inner cases) Set size: 100 cards Release date (subject to change): September 17, 2025
What to expect in a hobby box:
Serial-Numbered Cards – 8
Autographs or Memorabilia Cards – 3 Total
Gold Parallels – 13
Full Checklist:
1 Reggie Begelton 2 Cameron Dukes 3 Cole Spieker 4 William Stanback 5 McLeod Bethel-Thompson 6 Zach Collaros 7 Deandre Lamont 8 Tim White 9 Samuel Emilus 10 Jake Julien 11 Folarin Orimolade 12 David Beard 13 Justin McInnis 14 Elliot Brown 15 Evan Holm 16 Kalil Pimpleton 17 Casey Sayles 18 Bryan Cox Jr. 19 Mike Rose 20 Ka’Deem Carey 21 Dionte Ruffin 22 Ayinde Eley 23 Hergy Mayala 24 Deatrick Nichols 25 Dru Brown 26 Kenneth George Jr. 27 C.J. Avery 28 Demerio Houston 29 Robbie Smith 30 Cody Fajardo 31 Sione Teuhema 32 Eugene Lewis 33 Sergio Castillo 34 Alijah McGhee 35 Bo Levi Mitchell 36 C.J. Avery 37 Micah Awe 38 Wynton McManis 39 Mustafa Johnson 40 Vernon Adams Jr. 41 Nyles Morgan 42 Redha Kramdi 43 Cleyon Laing 44 Greg Bell 45 Trevor Harris 46 Rene Paredes 47 Janarion Grant 48 Geoffrey Cantin-Arku 49 Emmanuel Rugamba 50 Kevin Brown 51 Ontaria Wilson 52 Johnny Augustine 53 Taulia Tagovailoa 54 Davion Taylor 55 Stavros Katsantonis 56 Royce Metchie 57 Isaac Adeyemi-Berglund 58 T.J. Lee 59 Martez Ivey 60 Brady Oliveira 61 Dominique Rhymes 62 David Beard 63 Micah Awe 64 Tre Roberson 65 Ryan Hunter 66 Kabion Ento 67 Jarell Broxton 68 Jake Julien 69 Nic Demski 70 Jovan Santos-Knox 71 Kiondre Smith 72 Marc-Antoine Dequoy 73 Bentlee Sanders 74 Dejon Allen 75 Tyson Philpot 76 Kordell Jackson 77 Brandon Barlow 78 Nick Anderson 79 Noah Curtis 80 Bo Levi Mitchell/Tim White 81 Garry Peters 82 Justin McInnis 83 Cameron Dukes 84 Reggie Begelton 85 Eugene Lewis 86 Nick Anderson 87 Bo Levi Mitchell 88 Jamal Peters 89 Kiondre Smith 90 Isaac Adeyemi-Berglund 91 Marc-Antoine Dequoy 92 Adarius Pickett 93 Michael Wakefield 94 Rolan Milligan Jr. 95 Samuel Emilus 96 Trevor Harris 97 DaShaun Amos 98 Nick Anderson 99 Brady Oliveira 100 Tyrell Ford
CFL Players’ Association Partners with Lids to Launch Custom Headwear Line Featuring CFL Players
Mississauga, ON – The Canadian Football League Players’ Association (CFLPA) is proud to announce a new partnership with Lids Sports Group, a leading retailer of licensed sports headwear and apparel. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in spotlighting all CFLPA members through a dynamic and customizable line of headwear.
Through this agreement, Lids has been granted a license to customize your favorite team's hat, using CFLPA logos along with signatures of active CFLPA members.
All active CFLPA members will be invited to participate in the program, providing fans with a unique way to celebrate and support their favourite players. The customized hats will be created using Lids products, ensuring both quality and brand consistency, and will be available through select Lids retail channels.
“We’re excited to partner with Lids to deliver a new line of product that celebrates the identity of all CFL players,” said CFLPA Executive Director, David Mackie. “This is a meaningful opportunity for our members to connect with fans across the country, while building their personal brands through officially licensed merchandise.”
The CFLPA-Lids partnership is part of the Association’s broader effort to grow the visibility of CFL athletes and create new commercial opportunities for players beyond the field.
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About the CFLPA: The Canadian Football League Players’ 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 More Information - CFLPA Media Contact: Brendan Heisler, CFLPA Office | b.heisler@cflpa.com | (647) 453-4848
This past week, the BC Lions paid tribute to one of the greatest defensive players in Canadian football history, and to our very own CFLPA President, Solomon Elimimian, as they officially announced the retirement of his number 56.
For fans across the CFL, Solomon’s name has long been synonymous with toughness, leadership, and excellence. From the moment he joined the Lions in 2010, he left his mark on the game, establishing himself as a force in the middle of the field. In 2014, Solomon made history by becoming the first defensive player ever to win the CFL’s Most Outstanding Player Award, an achievement that proved just how dominant he was. That same year, he set a league record with 143 tackles in a single season, a record that Solomon himself would break only a few years later with 144 tackles in 2017. Solomon still holds the single season tackles record today.
B.C. Lions linebacker Solomon Elimimian poses backstage after being named Most Outstanding Defensive Player at the CFL Awards held in Toronto on Thursday, November 24, 2016. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Peter Power
Over his career, Solomon collected accolades that few players can match: two-time Most Outstanding Defensive Player (2014, 2016), four-time CFL All-Star, a Grey Cup Champion in 2011, and the respect of teammates, opponents, and fans league-wide. His intensity, preparation, and will to win set a standard that lifted everyone around him. Solomon was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame as a first ballot inductee in 2023.
Solomon’s legacy extends well beyond his playing days. In 2020, he was elected President of the CFL Players’ Association, becoming the first former Most Outstanding Player to lead the union. Just as he did on the field, Solomon brought energy, vision, and determination to the role. Under his leadership, the CFLPA has strengthened its voice, negotiated a historic collective bargaining agreement, and expanded opportunities for players through programs like the CFLPA Academy, helping members prepare for life after football.
CFL Players' Association (CFLPA) President Solomon Elimimian speaks during a news conference ahead of the 111th CFL Grey Cup, in Vancouver, B.C., Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ethan Cairns
For the CFLPA, seeing Solomon’s number retired isn’t just about remembering his remarkable playing career, it’s about celebrating the full scope of his contribution to the game. From racking up tackles at BC Place to advocating for players at the bargaining table, he has dedicated his life to building a stronger future for Canadian football.
Congratulations, Solomon. Your number may no longer be worn on the field in BC, but your impact will be felt in locker rooms, boardrooms, and communities across the CFL for years to come.
Mississauga, ON – The Canadian Football League Players’ Association (CFLPA) is proud to announce a new partnership between the CFLPA Academy and Tech Career Bridge, a leading career exploration platform that uses technology to help individuals identify and pursue their potential career options.
Through this partnership, CFLPA Members will gain access to personalized, career exploration reports that analyze their skill sets developed through football and life experiences and show how those skills translate into the professional world. Using Tech Career Bridge’s technology, each player will receive a customized report outlining career paths, industries, and roles that align with their strengths and experiences on and off the field.
“This partnership is about giving our members a clear roadmap for their next chapter,” said CFLPA Executive Director, David Mackie. “The skills and discipline developed in professional football are incredibly valuable in many industries, and Tech Career Bridge provides the tools to help our players see exactly where those strengths can take them.”
The CFLPA Academy, which exists to support members in preparing for life after football, will integrate Tech Career Bridge as a core component of its career transition resources for all Academy members. The goal is to make the challenging move from professional athletics to the workforce a more accessible, informed, and empowering process for CFLPA Members.
"We are excited to partner with the CFLPA and support athletes in their transitions to careers and success outside of football". Said Tech Career Bridge Executive Director, Andrew Wahba. "So many skills are developed through sport that are transferable to the workplace and we are happy to help identify and map them to new opportunities.”
By highlighting transferable skills such as leadership, teamwork, strategic thinking, and adaptability, Tech Career Bridge will help players explore new opportunities and take proactive steps toward building meaningful careers beyond the game of Football.
