CFLPA holds productive townhall meeting with 400 members

Photo courtesy: CFLPA

As tensions mount in the ranks of still unpaid CFL players, the CFL Players’ Association leadership held a massive town hall with its membership to provide an update on discussions with the league.

“Want to thank all the CFL Players who joined our town hall meeting today (over 400 members),” CFLPA president Solomon Elimimian said on Twitter afterwards.

“Lots of great question as we work through these uncertain times. We will continue to work and advocate on behalf of all our members.”

The meeting was not open to the public, but early indications seem to be that it was productive and enlightening for those who were a part of the tremendous turn out.

“Great job answering guys questions today in a time where great leadership is paramount,” wrote free agent offensive tackle Derek Dennis in response to Elimimian. “Doing a A1 job bro. Salute.”

Saskatchewan defensive lineman Chad Geter had been vocal in his unhappiness concerning the league situation and gained a newfound appreciation for his union leadership.

“Man I know I’ve been on here frustrated and stressed with all this going on. I appreciate the CFLPA for working hard for us. Joining that conference call I can hear the frustration and fatigue in their voice,” Geter wrote. “They want answers just as bad as everybody else. Much love.”

Geter tweeted during the meeting that many good questions were being asked by CFLPA members. As for the quality of the answers?

“They are answering the best way they can for sure. I appreciate the CFLPA working hard on it,” Geter stated. “To make a long story short we can’t make any real progress moving forward until we know something from the government.”

The government piece appears increasingly difficult following a Canadian Press report published shortly after the meeting said federal and provincial governments would be unable to confirm funding unless a deal between the players and league was reached beforehand. 

While the CFLPA membership now has a better understanding of the challenges facing the league and players, the task ahead remains monumental.