The 1971 Argonaut's Family

It was July 7th and I walked into the RC for my assignment that day, help the 71 team feel at home. Something I actually looked forward to. You see I had only heard stories over 13 years ago when my Dad was alive. He used to tell me about the days he used to watch his Argos. He used to tell me how they worked hard to bring Toronto a Grey Cup after such a long time of not being in the cup.

So as soon as I began this job with the Argonauts 28 years ago, I was already excited to be a part of the legacy. It was just last year that I was given the role of being the alumni liaison between the team and its alumni. From that point I had realized how important alumni were to this organization. they were there during the good years and the bad years and they were always talking about the Double Blue with pride whenever asked. Even when at times some may have felt slighted by the team or didn't agree with what was happening around the team, they still came around.

Saturday was truly enjoyable. I enjoyed seeing the 200 people lined up for autographs and not just those that may have seen the 71 team play but even youth that were teens or even younger. What a sight to see even a younger generation appreciate these athletes who played when a million dollar salary was unheard of in the entire world.

When those autographs were over it was nice to see the guys get together for something they all had in common, the love of football and more specifically, the Argos. As the score changed and the Argos took the lead you, can sense a hop in their step as they made their way to the half-time celebration.

They all made sure that no one was left behind as they waited for each other by the elevator to make their way down. When they saw their Coach, Leo Cahill, they all made sure he was okay and had a place to sit. Once they made it out to the centre field they waved in pride as their names were announced. Walking back to the elevators they walked by the current Argos waving, shaking hands with players that weren't even born when these guys wore uniforms similar to the ones they wear today. Despite the lack of connection, it still seemed as though no matter the age difference there was still that mutual respect.

71 Argonaut Family

As the game neared the end and the score was tied, the alumni rose to their feet to watch the final seconds. Joining the 71 team in the box was 83' Grey Cup champion Steve Ackroyd and I truly enjoyed the delight in Steve's voice when he told me how he was so honoured to be able to be with the guys that inspired him to play. What made me most content was seeing the camaraderie that these players shared. It was the same camaraderie I saw at the 91 reunion last year and the same camaraderie that other Argo teams have shared and still share. It made me think of family, which brought me back to my memory of my dad, who passed away in 1999. He told me what a special team the Argos had and when I began working for the team I started to see it. Now on July 7th I understood what made them so special, it was the sense of family they all shared. I later found out that I had the privilege of being with the 71 team and ironically when I was one the poster of Joe Theismann and the '71 Argos hung over my crib. I was part of the family long before I ever knew. Now that I am a part of it, I am thankful for it.