MISSISSAUGA, ON (CFL.ca wire) — The Toronto Argonauts announced on Tuesday that the club has released import defensive back Clifford Ivory.
“Today I’d like to take the opportunity to salute a true champion,” said Argonauts head coach Michael Clemons in a media release. “The combination of Clifford Ivory’s on-field exploits which include three All-Star nominations and the most Argo career interception return touchdowns confirm this fact. But his true greatness is in his unique ability to touch and affect people. From the airplane celebration after a big play to agreeing to attend a birthday party for a kid he just met, Clifford Ivory is one of the best people I have ever had the opportunity to meet. The reality of our game presents challenging business dynamics and relationships don’t always end as we might desire. Regardless of what jersey he might wear, Clifford Ivory will always be an Argo.”
Ivory was recognized as a CFL All-Canadian and East Division All-Star in his first three years in Double Blue and in 2004, he was honoured by his teammates as the Argos’ representative for the CFLPA’s Tom Pate Award – an award that acknowledges outstanding community involvement. During his five seasons in Toronto, Clifford was an ambassador for the Argonauts’ Huddle Up Against Bullying program and Stop the Violence Youth Mentorship program, as well as countless other community outreach efforts.
Ivory played 85 regular season games, made 280 total tackles, had 20 interceptions and is tied for most career interception return touchdowns by an Argo with five. His 492 interception return yards place him sixth on the Argos’ all-time list and his 124 fumble return yards stand as fourth most in club history. He was a Grey Cup Champion in 2004 and played in nine playoff games for the Boatmen.
