Key Points:
- Esteemed Recognition: Bob Young wins the Commissioner’s Award.
- Tiger-Cats Transformation: From uncertainty to a model franchise.
- Visionary Leadership: Young’s passion and strategy revitalized the team.
Bob Young, affectionately known as the ‘Caretaker’ of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, has been honored with the Commissioner’s Award, one of the Canadian Football League’s (CFL) most esteemed accolades. The announcement was made during the CFL Awards, a central part of the Grey Cup Festival celebrated from November 13-19, which includes over 40 events catering to football enthusiasts, music fans, athletes, and families.
Young’s journey with the Tiger-Cats began in 2003 when he took over a team with a storied past but an uncertain future. CFL Commissioner Randy Ambrosie acknowledged Young’s vital role in transforming the Tiger-Cats into a strong, stable, and successful modern sports franchise. Under Young’s stewardship, the Tiger-Cats have become a cornerstone of the Hamilton Sports Group, significantly influencing the sports and entertainment industry.
Inspired by his late brother Mike, a passionate Ticats fan, Young always emphasizes his role as a caretaker rather than an owner, recognizing the franchise’s deep connection to its fans in Hamilton and globally. Young’s strategic, intelligent approach, coupled with his humility, has significantly strengthened the team, expanded its community of fans, and secured a brighter future for the organization.
The Commissioner’s Award, presented since 1990, honors individuals who have shown dedication and significantly contributed to Canadian football. It celebrates figures like Bernie Custis, the CFL’s first black quarterback, Russ Jackson, a legendary CFL quarterback, and Hugh Campbell, a ten-time Grey Cup champion.
The award presentation was a highlight of the CFL Awards during the Grey Cup Festival. This year’s Grey Cup, the 110th in the series, will be hosted at Tim Hortons Field in Hamilton on November 19. The sold-out championship game, featuring a halftime show by Green Day, will be broadcast live nationwide on TSN and RDS, online via CFL+, and on SiriusXM’s Canada Talks.
