Former Sault Collegiate QB gets Grey Cup for a while
Monday, October 15, 2012 by: Rick McGee
As readers of a certain age remember, Canada’s current Governor General was a quarterback with the Sault Collegiate Wildcats during the era when they were coached by the legendary Tom Tipton.
His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston (who also served as a student president at SCI and went on to play hockey at Harvard) continues to enjoy football and is big fan of the three-down game.
So the GG is no doubt thrilled that the Grey Cup will arrive at his place - Rideau Hall - in Ottawa on Sunday, October 21 and remain there for a while.
“I’m honoured to welcome to Rideau Hall the trophy first donated by my predecessor, Earl Grey, which is a symbol of excellence awarded to the best Canadian professional football team. This year, as we mark the 100th Grey Cup Championship Game, there is nothing quite like a homecoming, bringing the Cup to Rideau Hall, to underline this milestone in the history of the CFL. Sharon and I [shown together at the 2010 Grey Cup game in Edmonton] are inviting all Canadians to come and see it on display,” says His Excellency in a news release.
There will be public viewings over a four-day period.
Visitors will also be able to tour the elegant residence.
In 1909, Governor General Earl Grey donated a trophy for the Rugby Football Championship of Canada.
The trophy later became known as the Grey Cup and eventually became the property of the Canadian Football League.
The Grey Cup is Canada’s national championship and the largest annual single sporting event.
