The path to professional football in Canada continues as the 2024 CFL Combine presented by New Era prepars to set up in Winnipeg. This annual event acts as a stage for the league’s top draft prospects, expecting to occur from March 19 to March 24 in 2024, followed by Regina’s turn in 2025.
Greg Dick, the CFL’s Chief Football Operations Officer and Head of Grey Cup & Events, highlighted the Combine’s importance not only as a platform for team officials to scout talent but also as a notable achievement for the athletes. “The CFL Combine,” he noted, “is both a key scouting opportunity and a recognition of the dedication and hard work these athletes have committed to over the years.”
The kick-off for the Combine activities begins earlier in the year, starting with a specialized Kicking Combine, scheduled for January 20 in San Diego. Attention then shifts to Canada on March 8, where prospects converge at the University of Waterloo’s Feridun Hamdullahpur Field House for the CFL Invitational Combine. Standout participants from there will join the slate of elite talent in Winnipeg.
The Winnipeg Football Club’s President and CEO, Wade Miller, expressed enthusiasm for hosting the combine in Winnipeg. Reflecting on the storied history of local players who have risen through the ranks, Miller stated that the CFL combine plays a critical part in the journey of athletes aiming for professional careers.
Adhering to the successful five-day format initiated in 2023, the first day will entail medical evaluations and physical measurements. Subsequent days focus on various testing, with the inclusion of drills such as the 40-yard dash and the bench press, and will culminate in practice sessions with CFL coaches.
The event promises extensive coverage, with live streaming available on CFL platforms and updates across social media and CFL.ca. Hosting the event is anticipated to showcase Winnipeg’s vibrant sports culture, an appetizing teaser for the 112th Grey Cup championed by Economic Development Winnipeg’s President and CEO, Ryan Kuffner.
Looking ahead to 2025, Regina’s preparations to host have already begun. Craig Reynolds, the President and CEO of the Saskatchewan Roughriders, anticipates an outstanding opportunity to present the city’s dedication to football and warmly welcome the sport’s emerging stars.
Details for the 2024 event, including attendee lists and venues, will be announced early next year. As anticipation builds, the CFL Combine persistently stands as a pivotal moment connecting collegiate determination with professional aspiration in Canadian Football.
