Blue Jays fever is in full swing in Toronto, and with that the oldest franchise in North America—the Toronto Argonauts—has been forgotten by fair weather fans in Canada’s biggest market. Nevertheless, the Argos are still fighting, and they are looking to get back into the win column as the playoffs draw near.
The Argos played a “home” game in Hamilton late last week against the defending Grey Cup champion Calgary Stampeders last Saturday, in front of a stunningly paltry attendance of just over 3,400 fans.
The most obvious thorn in their side this season has been the lack of a true home field. The Pan Am Games were in Toronto at the start of year, forcing the Argos onto the road for almost the first third of the season. And now that the Blue Jays are taking priority for home games at Toronto’s Rogers Center, it’s a marvel that the boatmen are in second place in the CFL East Division.
The Argos are also in the midst of a successful regular season without future Hall of Fame quarterback Ricky Ray. The front office has made some great moves, picking up receivers Tori Gurley and Kevin Elliott, and acquiring Brandon Whitaker to shore up the running game in in the absence of Curtis Steele. Not to be understated was the leadership move that happened in the off-season with the arrival of Ricky Foley.
The attendance and lack of a true home field advantage have not spelled doom and gloom for the Argos in 2015, however; despite all the adversity this franchise has dealt with this season they are continuing a strong post-season push.
And when looking for a coach of the year nominee, while still there is still football to be played, we can look directly at Argos head coach Scott Milanovich. His ability to keep this group focused and hungry in spite of all the nonsense and headaches they have had to deal with is awe-inspiring.
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