Key Points:

• Calgary Stampeders and Stampeders Foundation partner with Lois Mitchell to announce Doug Mitchell Football Awards.
• Scholarships to be directed to University of Calgary and University of British Columbia football programs.
• Eligibility based on athletics, academics, and community involvement.

The Calgary Stampeders and the Stampeders Foundation, in partnership with Lois Mitchell, have announced the creation of the Doug Mitchell Football Awards. These athletic scholarships are established in memory of Doug Mitchell, a significant figure in Canadian sports and part-owner of the Calgary Stampeders.

The awards will direct $5,000 annually to deserving members of the University of Calgary and University of British Columbia football programs. Selection criteria include performance in athletics, academics, and community involvement.

Doug Mitchell’s contributions to Canadian sports were extensive. He played football at the University of British Columbia (UBC) and later became the commissioner of the Canadian Football League (CFL). Additionally, he was a part-owner of the Calgary Stampeders. Mitchell’s contributions have been recognized through several hall of fame inductions, including the Canadian Football Hall of Fame and Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame. He was also a recipient of the Order of Canada.

According to John Hufnagel, president of the Calgary Stampeders, “Doug was a very important figure in the Canadian Football League. These awards are a fitting legacy for his lifetime achievements.”

Lois Mitchell, Doug Mitchell’s widow, stated, “My family and I extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Stampeders Foundation for this meaningful tribute to Doug. These scholarships represent his enduring commitment to nurturing young athletes.”

The Stampeders Foundation has a history of supporting amateur and grassroots football in southern Alberta. Since 2012, the Foundation has donated more than $4 million to football projects, including a $600,000 commitment to the Shouldice Athletic Fields Seasonal Shelter.

Doug Mitchell’s legacy is also being carried on by his son, Scott Mitchell, who currently serves as president and CEO of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. The U Sports Athlete of the Year Awards were renamed in honor of Doug Mitchell and his contributions to Canadian university sports.