Tributes poured in from around the Canadian Football League this week after BC Lions offensive lineman Jovan Olafioye announced his retirement from professional football.
The six-time CFL All-Star was a player respected by teammates and opponents alike, and that showed through on social media following the announcement.
Thank you @jolafioye63 💪 pic.twitter.com/qqXoU4N3bK
— BC LIONS (@BCLions) April 4, 2019
MUCH RESPECT @jolafioye63 THOUGH IT WAS ONLY FOR A YEAR I ENJOYED BEING ON THE SAME SQUAD – YOU WERE A TRUE PRO – MAHALO FOR WHAT YOU GAVE! https://t.co/Perk2SrxEI
— Jeff Reinebold (@Jeff_Reinebold) April 4, 2019
@jolafioye63 played season after season without missing a game and went through entire campaigns without yielding a sack. Retirement congratulations to @BCLions zero hero, a six-time CFL all-star whose generosity of spirit was matched only by his unbending play on the gridiron.
— Mike Beamish (@sixbeamers) April 4, 2019
@jolafioye63 Big Homie I selfishly wanted to see you on that field for more years to come. You’re 1 of the best of our era! I hope the @CFL celebrates you in grand fashion for what you’ve been to the game. #Legend #HOFer ✊🏿
— SirVincent Rogers Sr. (@SirV55) April 4, 2019
@jolafioye63 took an opportunity given to him and became a 6x All Canadian, 7x Western Allstar, Most Outstanding Lineman, and a Grey Cup champ. Congrats on a Hall of Fame career. Thank you Big O https://t.co/UTy45A7CgG
— Wally Buono (@CoachBrillo) April 4, 2019
One of the best to ever play his position in @cfl history and one of the nicest persons you’ll ever meet. It was truly an honour to play beside you and call you my friend. #BigO #SugarBear #HOF #Monster #WhichOneDoIBlock?? https://t.co/Ty7FNx30S8
— Angus Reid (@angusreid64) April 5, 2019
Congrats to “Big O” @jolafioye63! This guy has been an anchor in front of me for years – the best of the best in our league. Been a pleasure going to battle, best of luck on the next step! 👊🏻 https://t.co/PNxMYnfKHp
— Travis Lulay (@TravisLulay) April 4, 2019
Best of luck to Jovan and his family in the next chapter.