CFL, REDBLACKS mourn the loss of George Brancato

OTTAWA — George Brancato, a longtime player and coach in the CFL, has died.

Brancato spent seven seasons as a player with the Rough Riders, winning the Grey Cup in 1960 before going on to a decorated coaching career. He was 88.

The Ottawa Sport Hall of Famer was the helm of Ottawa’s 1976 Grey Cup win, the last time the Cup would come to Ottawa until the REDBLACKS accomplished the feat four decades later. He also won it all as an assistant coach in 1973 before taking over. Brancato remained with Ottawa until 1984.

The Brooklyn native first came to Ottawa as a player in 1957 and was named an All-Star in 1961.

The Canadian Football League and Ottawa REDBLACKS would like to extend their condolences to Brancato family and his many friends.