The CFL is a fundamental component of Canada’s national identity, and the Hamilton Tiger-Cats are an integral part of the CFL. Approaching the country’s sesquicentennial, Canadians are afforded an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of influences which have shaped their unique culture. Canadian football, like no other sport in the country, has been a reflection of evolving Canadian values.
The Hamilton Tiger-Cats can be traced back 148 years, nearly as far as Confederation. Canada was built by great Canadians, and so too was the Tiger-Cats. A long list of Canadians has exerted a profound influence on the team throughout the years. Tommy Joe Coffey, Bill Danychuk, Rocky Dipietro, Bob Krause, Paul Osbaldiston: the list goes on. The tradition of great Canadian players building a great Canadian institution continues into the present day.
In 1951, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats were the first Canadian football club to start an African American quarterback in the modern era. Bernie Custis was welcomed by an inclusive organization at a time when political turmoil would have otherwise prevented him from pursuing football. Custis paved the way for other notable African American quarterbacks in the CFL, such as Warren Moon, Chuck Ealey, and Damon Allen. Today, racial diversity is ubiquitous at the game’s most important position. The Tiger-Cats upheld the long-standing Canadian tradition of racial acceptance at a time when other leagues were reluctant to do so.
The CFL is a truly Canadian sport product. The game isn’t played anywhere else in the world. Nobody else’s footballs have stripes, nobody else’s end zones are quite so large, and nobody else awards a point for a missed field goal. The CFL, but more specifically, Canadian football, has remained stubbornly Canadian where other national products have faltered and succumbed to American imperialism. It is a final vestige of pure Canadiana – not only does the country house a domestic league, but also a domestic sport. Canadian football is a thing to be celebrated.
In today’s political climate, Canada’s unique and inclusive perspective has further distinguished it on the world stage. Like few other times in history, there is cause for Canadians to acknowledge what makes them unique. On the eve of Canada’s 150th birthday, Canadians should be proud to celebrate what sets them apart. Celebrate inclusiveness, acceptance, and love for all Canadians. Celebrate three downs, the rouge, and an enormous field. Celebrate Canadian football and its devoted fans. Celebrate the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
Happy birthday Canada!
