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Toronto Argonauts defensive end Shawn Lemon had a front row seat to the oratory power that is Michael “Pinball” Clemons on Wednesday. It is, as it turns out, not just vocal heat or emotional heat but actual physical heat.
“I was cold before practice started but once Pinball started talking, that just went away,” Lemon said. “It’s not about football but it is about football. It’s about life and you can apply it how you want to apply it. That’s why his speeches are so powerful.” ...
The Argonauts have also launched a new “Pinball section” where fans can sit with Clemons, who has eschewed the warm comfort of a suite to sit among what are likely to be the semi-frigid masses. This comes as no surprise to Lemon, who says Clemons’ ability to relate to people is what gives his motivational talks the air of authenticity they need to be effective with professional athletes who have heard a lot of speeches.
“I was leaving practice on Tuesday and Pinball is walking in with food for the coaches because he knew they were going to be here late,” Lemon said. “He carries equipment bags after the game, no cameras around. That’s just who he is.” ...
“I was leaving practice on Tuesday and Pinball is walking in with food for the coaches because he knew they were going to be here late,” Lemon said. “He carries equipment bags after the game, no cameras around. That’s just who he is.” ...
“There’s a saying, ‘People are too impatient to be smart.’ Building takes time,” he said. “This game is an important step but it doesn’t solve things, the turnaround isn’t complete. But there’s tremendous traction and momentum.”