Statement Regarding the BC Lions from CFL Commissioner Mark Cohon

TORONTO -- On Friday, August 21st, following player introductions and prior to the start of their game, British Columbia Lions gathered at centre field and made an offensive gesture towards their opponents, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. The league office pursued this matter with the Lions organization, which immediately indicated its strong disapproval of the players’ actions, and sought permission to express that disapproval by imposing its own discipline. I have now been advised it has taken the following steps:

 
•    The Lions organization has publicly acknowledged this behaviour was “embarrassing” and should not and will not be tolerated.

•    The Lions organization has extended an apology to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

•    GM and Head Coach Wally Buono along with all 42 players on the roster that night have self-imposed a fine of an unspecified amount, the proceeds from which will be used to make it possible for a significant number of underprivileged Vancouver youth to attend an upcoming CFL game.
 
I want to commend the Lions organization for its decisive response, and take this opportunity to remind all of our players, teams and associated personnel that when we respect our opponents, we respect our game, our league, and ultimately, our fans.