November 24, 2015

A Letter to the fans from Argos CEO Chris Rudge

To our loyal fans and ticket holders;

I am writing to say thank you and good bye. As most of you may know, I will be leaving the Argos on December 31st after five and a half years. They have been at once stimulating, heartbreaking, turbulent and rewarding. Through that time the one constant has been the unwavering care, passion and commitment you have brought to this team. It hasn’t been easy at times with some of the challenges we’ve faced but one thing I could always count on and look forward to every Monday morning was lots of help in making decisions on how to improve the team, our marketing, ticket sales and everything else you cared about! You have been terrific and I look forward to joining you in the seats next season.

The future is indeed bright. After many years of “wandering” in the wilderness, this gloried franchise embarks on a new era with a bright and vibrant future ahead. New owners with a breadth of resources and critical mass to lever their influence across a broad platform will transform the franchise’s ability to reach out into the community and build greater awareness. Michael Copeland, who succeeds me as President, is a bright young man full of energy and fresh ideas and knowledge of our game as former President/COO of the CFL.  I know he’s looking forward to working with all of you. The team will play in a new, right-sized stadium that takes it back to its roots at the CNE. And, at long last, a balanced schedule!

I hope you have not only got your 2016 season ticket deposits in for next year but doubled down. It promises to be the hot new ticket in town. I know friends who have already gone from two to eight season tickets. And of course, the 104th Grey Cup Festival in 2016 holds promises of Toronto once again sharing with all Canadians the warm hospitality they experienced at the 100th Grey Cup in 2012. The phone lines are open at 416-341-2746 or go to argosatbmofield.ca for more information and put down your deposit. Don’t wait, get on board today.

Year’s end will see my third attempt at retirement since 2002 and already it doesn’t appear to be sustainable. I have many projects on the go. A heartfelt thanks for the gift of sharing this latest journey with you.

 

Good bye and God bless.

 

Chris Rudge