The Canadian Football League Players’ Association sent out the following memo to their players last night. Asking them not to make any changes to their current work situations due to a lack of timeline from the CFL and the growing number of COVID cases in Canada.
“We have been in formal discussions with the League since early February. Despite our repeated requests, the League has not yet decided on a start date for the 2021 season.
Regrettably, instead of falling cases in Canada, we are now seeing an increase in COVID cases so much that Ontario has imposed a mandatory 28-day lockdown. Quebec, B.C. and Alberta have issued mandatory closures of gyms, restaurants and have banned all mass gatherings.
Until the League decides on the start date for a season, we advise you not to make any changes that would affect your current income stream.
We advise you not to risk the employment you now have, and if and when the League makes a decision and notifies us that they are prepared to go ahead with a season, we will inform you immediately.
While this may not be good news, please know we are dedicated to continuing to work hard on your behalf to get you back on the field with the most games possible with maximum safeguards in place.
As always, we will keep you informed of any developments.
Your CFLPA
No one knows what the future holds for the CFL in 2021 yet. Between talks with the XFL, the financial situation of the league and COVID. People are looking for answers from someone and no one has any.
The United Football Players Association (UFPA) also released a copy of the memo sent out by the CFLPA with a statement.
‘Insiders’ keep saying that there will be a CFL season in 2021. We hear sometime in June/July or maybe even September.
In November the CFL released its 2021 schedule saying the first game will be on Thursday, June 10th. That date seems highly unlikely given the current state.
The CFLPA’s statement is asking their players to take caution at this time and yet it is kind of obvious. Don’t quit your day job anytime soon.
David Tress
April 10, 2021 at 4:03 pm
They should plan for a 16 game CFL schedule, with the regular season starting July 1st. Two XFL teams should be entered to play in the CFL in 2021 to generate more excitement.