Major media coverage now

[Ballstothewall]

Calling all Argo fans. Right now there is major media attention on the team over a new stadium. I would asks that you go to the Toronto Sun news page and Toronto Star new page and get commenting now, as we are taking a beating. Keep listening to AM radio as this talk will be going on all week. Call in and support he Argos. The story in the Sun is getting 5 comments a min right now, most of them bad, saying things like the CFL is crap and minor league. Get your thoughts out there as a group and overwhelm these SOB's

[bluto]

yeah... it's getting pretty ugly out there... so many haters.

i'm on it.

[ArgoRavi]

Calling all Argo fans. Right now there is major media attention on the team over a new stadium. I would asks that you go to the Toronto Sun news page and Toronto Star new page and get commenting now, as we are taking a beating. Keep listening to AM radio as this talk will be going on all week. Call in and support he Argos. The story in the Sun is getting 5 comments a min right now, most of them bad, saying things like the CFL is crap and minor league. Get your thoughts out there as a group and overwhelm these SOB's

It is weird how the CFL is "crap and minor league" to some while Toronto FC is major league (and for those FC fans out there, I am not saying that it isn't). Maybe the CFL should change its name to Major League Football, get rid of most of the Canadian-based teams - let's keep Montreal, B.C. and Toronto only - and add a bunch of American-based teams. Would that fly better in Toronto and make it more likely that the Argos could get their own stadium?

[ArgoRedneck]

Its a tough sell. Its Canada's game. That's the beauty to me. A challenge to you all. Much like we want others in TO to atleast try a Argo game, tomorrow nite at 930 on Speed TV watch the NASCAR Truck race. This is the "C" series in NASCAR. I think alot will love it. This one is a special race, its on dirt. If we can get people to do what I am requesting you to do with the ARGOS, then the Argos will have alot more fans. If you are unwilling to take a look tomorrow at the race then you can not expect others to try the CFL.

[Ballstothewall]

yeah... it's getting pretty ugly out there... so many haters.

i'm on it.
Good job, bluto, get the word out!!!

[argotom]

Thankfully The Sun is reporting this and not afraid like the Rogers media which has the monopoly in this city and made a conserted effort to put down and vote against anything that is the Argos or CFL.

[gilthethrill]

How much $$$ did the "Crap CFL" bring to city of Toronto and the province during Grey Cup Week last year???? That itself should get the stadium in motion.

[gilthethrill]

I can't find either of them!!!

[Ballstothewall]

I can't find either of them!!!
The sun article is under the news section

[R.J]

http://www.torontosun.com/2013/07/23/mayor-rob-ford-doing-everything-possible-to-get-toronto-a-football-stadium

[argotom]

Rob Ford is the man. Let's hope this creates some interest and snowballs.

[ArgoGabe22]

City councillors will be all over this, in a negative way.

[LLB997]

CFL is the 2nd best football league at worst. MLS is the 20th best soccer league at best

[1argoholic]

I'm totally behind a new stadium as each of us knows Rogers plans to kick the Argos out. How many joe blow locals know this? They just think that the Argos have a perfect place to play right now I'm sure.

I can't get caught up in writing in because reading posts from folks who know squat about the Argonauts just pisses me off. I don't need to feel hate for all of those ArgodomeArgodomeArgodomeArgodomeArgodomeArgodomeAr godomes. It's not good for my health. However I do hate them.

It's obvious that either a stadium is built for the oldest pro sports franchise in North America or they fold when Rogers kicks them out. What morons around Toronto think doesn't matter to me. We don't need millions of morons coming to games. The Argos will have the support of the fans who love to be at games in their own new stadium. The rest of the fools can hit the ballet or whatever they do.

[gilthethrill]

CFL is the 2nd best football league at worst. MLS is the 20th best soccer league at best

How much $$ did the MLS Cup generate for Toronto when it was played there a couple years ago?

[AngeloV]

City councillors will be all over this, in a negative way.

And Ford knows this. He knows he has zero power in regards to getting a stadium built. All he's doing is making himself look like the good guy here. Sorry guys. I want a stadium as much as anyone, but I'm not buying any of this.

This would be the same as me pledging to donate a Million dollars on behalf of the company I work for, knowing there is no way in hell it will ever happen. But it makes me look good and the board look like the bad guys.

If he was sincere about all this, he would have done a lot of behind the scenes work without bringing media attention to it. Then if the project ever got rolling, than he can go public with it. It's amazing how many forget that he and his brother wanted to bring the NFL here so badly, which would kill the Argos and likely the league. Some even saying he is the man. It's politics people...That's it.

[Rich]

And Ford knows this. He knows he has zero power in regards to getting a stadium built. All he's doing is making himself look like the good guy here. Sorry guys. I want a stadium as much as anyone, but I'm not buying any of this.

This would be the same as me pledging to donate a Million dollars on behalf of the company I work for, knowing there is no way in hell it will ever happen. But it makes me look good and the board look like the bad guys.

If he was sincere about all this, he would have done a lot of behind the scenes work without bringing media attention to it. Then if the project ever got rolling, than he can go public with it. It's amazing how many forget that he and his brother wanted to bring the NFL here so badly, which would kill the Argos and likely the league. Some even saying he is the man. It's politics people...That's it.

Politics? Going after the Argo fan vote? Pretty small demographic to take so much heat for. He's a smarter politician than that (although in his case i use the word "smart" very loosely). The "political" play is to say no money for stadiums, period.

But nowhere does he talk about using public money. The purpose of his public statements is to convince would-be developers that he's serious about seeing it done (i.e. willing to pull some strings for them). As I said in another thread, bringing developers and financing together to build a football stadium is the perfect file for Rob Ford, because it's an issue he actually knows something about. Go Robbie! I'll bring ya some crack if it will help!

[bluto]

How much $$$ did the "Crap CFL" bring to city of Toronto and the province during Grey Cup Week last year???? That itself should get the stadium in motion.

$133M to the GTA ($94M of which was in Toronto proper)

[bluto]

it is "just politics" as Angelo says... but the thing is, this is a dog of an issue for a politician to support. Ford is willing to try and get this conversation started and no matter how you slice it, that is a very good thing.

if he is sincere about taking meetings with the team, league and developers this could be the watershed moment in the planning of the Argos (and therefore, our) new home.

lots to be happy about here and even though the CFL is taking its lumps in the call-ins and comment boxes... we need to make sure that CFL fans are heard in this discussion. i'm not saying we need to go on the warpath and participate in flame-wars... i'm just saying that we need to ensure that we have agency in this issue and that our supporters (Braley, the league, Ford, etc) are emboldened by our presence.

i emailed the mayor's office to support his advocacy and asked if there is anything constructive they think we can do at this point... it never hurts to ask.

[AngeloV]

Politics? Going after the Argo fan vote? Pretty small demographic to take so much heat for. He's a smarter politician than that (although in his case i use the word "smart" very loosely). The "political" play is to say no money for stadiums, period.

But nowhere does he talk about using public money. The purpose of his public statements is to convince would-be developers that he's serious about seeing it done (i.e. willing to pull some strings for them). As I said in another thread, bringing developers and financing together to build a football stadium is the perfect file for Rob Ford, because it's an issue he actually knows something about. Go Robbie! I'll bring ya some crack if it will help!

So on the one hand we all pat ourselves in the back about CFL ratings, and on the other it's a pretty small demographic?

Maybe the NFL told him there is no chance of the league coming to Toronto, so he has turned his attention into helping the Argos out.

Hey, Like I said, I hope he is sincere and he gets this done. I'm just very skeptical in believing what any politician says.

[BATKINSON001]

I will do what I can at home, my phones browser keeps crashing.

[argolio]

But nowhere does he talk about using public money. The purpose of his public statements is to convince would-be developers that he's serious about seeing it done (i.e. willing to pull some strings for them). As I said in another thread, bringing developers and financing together to build a football stadium is the perfect file for Rob Ford, because it's an issue he actually knows something about. Go Robbie! I'll bring ya some crack if it will help!That was Ford's initial plan to extend the Sheppard subway but the developers basically laughed at him. When he hopped on the Bloor-Danforth extension at the last minute earlier this month, there was also no development money. Ford threw his "no tax increases" motto out the window just so he could have a new subway on his resume to take into next year's election.

I could see a new stadium as part of some major development, but can it be totally or mostly funded with private money? I'll believe it when I see it. Not to mention any development like that would also have to approved by City Council which means at least 23 votes.

[flafson]

I bet if Ford "changes" his affiliation, the next day he will be the smartest, bravest, slimmest mayor according to the media.
It's not like he said he's going to use taxpayer money to do it, all he said was, he's looking at options. I'm sure he would rather connect the dots instead of spend taxpayer money if it's possible.

[AngeloV]

I bet if Ford "changes" his affiliation, the next day he will be the smartest, bravest, slimmest mayor according to the media.
It's not like he said he's going to use taxpayer money to do it, all he said was, he's looking at options. I'm sure he would rather connect the dots instead of spend taxpayer money if it's possible.

Affiliation has nothing to do with it for me. All politicians are equally crooked.

[Rich]

That was Ford's initial plan to extend the Sheppard subway but the developers basically laughed at him. When he hopped on the Bloor-Danforth extension at the last minute earlier this month, there was also no development money. Ford threw his "no tax increases" motto out the window just so he could have a new subway on his resume to take into next year's election.

I could see a new stadium as part of some major development, but can it be totally or mostly funded with private money? I'll believe it when I see it. Not to mention any development like that would also have to approved by City Council which means at least 23 votes.

It's a lot easier to raise $500 million than $3 billion. He brought a lot more than $500 million to the table for the casino project, and surely a stadium/residential/commercial complex would be a lot less contentious than a casino/residential/commercial complex.

[LLB997]

How much $$ did the MLS Cup generate for Toronto when it was played there a couple years ago?

Exactly Gill. MLS fans area laugher in general when they try to dress down the CFL . Oh and the next time some TFC fans yaps about how its a "Soccer Specific Stadium". Tell them they are full of shite. Both L:acrosse and Rugby have now been played at BMO field without a peep from the soccer purists. So apparently its open to all sports.

I cannot get on the Sun forum because of my location but if you comment give the guy "roger payne" a dressing down. He's got nothing but disdain for the CFL but loves MLB ironically. Guess the guy considers eating sunflower seeds a sport. The original poster said there is a star article but i couldnt find it. link me if you can
Lee

[R.J]

CFL is the 2nd best football league at worst. MLS is the 20th best soccer league at best
CFL is #2 out of 60+ countries playing football currently, although IIRC only 3 countries currently play our game, the rest play variations of NFL rules or NFL rules themselves.

MLS is 88th out of 100+, not sure how many soccer leagues there actually are.

Exactly Gill. MLS fans area laugher in general when they try to dress down the CFL . Oh and the next time some TFC fans yaps about how its a "Soccer Specific Stadium". Tell them they are full of shite. Both L:acrosse and Rugby have now been played at BMO field without a peep from the soccer purists. So apparently its open to all sports.
Field lacrosse and rugby, can both be played on soccer dimensions though, no changes had to be made to the stadium, with exception to lines having to be painted and goals being put in.

[LLB997]

Field lacrosse and rugby, can both be played on soccer dimensions though, no changes had to be made to the stadium, with exception to lines having to be painted and goals being put in.


From my understanding, TFC fans problem with Football being played at BMO in large part revolves around the turf getting abused especially with future hopes of getting natural grass installed. I would think Rugby would be pretty wearing on any natural turf. Obviously a retrofit would have to be made to the stadium due to field size, but as i stated the stadium is no longer soccer specific anyways at this point.

[R.J]

It's the field dimensions they care about and I suppose the grass getting messed up.
Having a soccer specific stadium is supposedly huge for this country, because according to some soccer is always crapped on, yet it's funny there are 2 soccer specific stadiums in Canada. 1 football specific (Winnipeg now) and zerp baseball specific.

[LLB997]

It's the field dimensions they care about and I suppose the grass getting messed up.
Having a soccer specific stadium is supposedly huge for this country, because according to some soccer is always crapped on, yet it's funny there are 2 soccer specific stadiums in Canada. 1 football specific (Winnipeg now) and zerp baseball specific.

How exactly is having a SSS huge for Canada?? The National club is as bad as its ever been. Wecant even beat tiny Martinique. What specific moves forward has Mens soccer in Canada made specifically due to having BMO be Soccer Specific. As far as the women go, i believe they would be equally competitive with or without BMO.
To much is made of BMO being so important to Soccer Canada when it can only be utilized for training 6 months of the year. Blow it up and let the other kids play. Hogging BMO has done jack for Soccer Canada.

[ArgoRavi]

How exactly is having a SSS huge for Canada?? The National club is as bad as its ever been. Wecant even beat tiny Martinique. What specific moves forward has Mens soccer in Canada made specifically due to having BMO be Soccer Specific. As far as the women go, i believe they would be equally competitive with or without BMO.
To much is made of BMO being so important to Soccer Canada when it can only be utilized for training 6 months of the year. Blow it up and let the other kids play. Hogging BMO has done jack for Soccer Canada.

Unfortunately, the Canadian Soccer League which was formed back in the late 1980s did not survive. That league's purpose was to develop Canadian soccer players for the national team and was a noble idea IMO. However, the league wasn't supported well enough, especially in Toronto, and failed as a result. That is the league that Canadian soccer needs IMO rather than hitching their wagon to an American league such as the MLS.

Bringing this back to the stadium issue, I have always felt that Canadian football and soccer should have a synergy, as they like to say in the corporate world, in that they both require similar type stadiums. However, that didn't work in Toronto for a variety of reasons. Whether it is too late to do something with BMO is debatable and yet that is what makes the most sense in many ways.

[Mulder]

How exactly is having a SSS huge for Canada?? The National club is as bad as its ever been. Wecant even beat tiny Martinique. What specific moves forward has Mens soccer in Canada made specifically due to having BMO be Soccer Specific. As far as the women go, i believe they would be equally competitive with or without BMO.
To much is made of BMO being so important to Soccer Canada when it can only be utilized for training 6 months of the year. Blow it up and let the other kids play. Hogging BMO has done jack for Soccer Canada.

Keep in mind, both Womans and Men's National teams have used the "National Soccer Stadium" 16 times since it was built. It's not even going to be used for the Woman's World Cup in 2015. Some "National Soccer Stadium"

[matthew]

IMO opinion I am not sure Rob Ford saying this is actually help to our cause particularly when you see that even those that support him are starting to question his direction. I don't need to read the negative comments that the city tossess at the Argos. It just makes me sad and even if you retort, they just don't care.

[ArgoGabe22]

Anyone who bashes the Argos has no appreciation for history and no sense of culture. I was reading those comments, what an absolute joke. Some comments were comparing our new imaginary stadium to TFC's on field success, that we'll lose and no one will attend an Argos game and a stadium will sit empty for games just like TFC. TFC started from scratch so they really had no definite fan base, while the Argos have been around for 140 years! I can't read these comments anymore or my computer screen will have a hole in it soon. A bunch of ignorant fools.

[1argoholic]

Well written ArgoGabe22. Well as a guy who loves antiques and can appreciate history I think much of that is totally lost. I think the powers that be can filter through the BS.

[T-Bone]

How much $$ did the MLS Cup generate for Toronto when it was played there a couple years ago?
I can't find an exact number but here is an article (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/toronto-to-host-2010-mls-cup/article4312698/) from when the MLS Cup was awarded to Toronto in 2010. It says that the 2008 MLS All-Star Game brought in approximately $23 million dollars and the Real Madrid match from 2009 brought in approximately $10 million dollars. I assume the 2010 MLS Cup falls somewhere in that range.


From my understanding, TFC fans problem with Football being played at BMO in large part revolves around the turf getting abused especially with future hopes of getting natural grass installed. I would think Rugby would be pretty wearing on any natural turf. Obviously a retrofit would have to be made to the stadium due to field size, but as i stated the stadium is no longer soccer specific anyways at this point.
BMO Field has had a natural surface since 2010.


How exactly is having a SSS huge for Canada?? The National club is as bad as its ever been. Wecant even beat tiny Martinique. What specific moves forward has Mens soccer in Canada made specifically due to having BMO be Soccer Specific. As far as the women go, i believe they would be equally competitive with or without BMO.
To much is made of BMO being so important to Soccer Canada when it can only be utilized for training 6 months of the year. Blow it up and let the other kids play. Hogging BMO has done jack for Soccer Canada.
BMO Field was built for the FIFA U-20 World Cup and as the National Soccer Stadium for the national teams. MLSE brought in TFC for the building to have further purpose. The national teams didn't like the artificial turf which was why there was a push to replace it and there were fewer games played by the national team there from 2007-2010. TFC's initial success changed the MLS and helped pave the way for Vancouver and Montreal to join the league. The TFC Academy that opened last year at Downsview is another good thing for soccer in this country. Though the MNT is not at its best currently soccer in Canada is in a better place now then it was in 2007 and BMO Field is seen by many as catalyst for change in Canadian soccer.


Unfortunately, the Canadian Soccer League which was formed back in the late 1980s did not survive. That league's purpose was to develop Canadian soccer players for the national team and was a noble idea IMO. However, the league wasn't supported well enough, especially in Toronto, and failed as a result. That is the league that Canadian soccer needs IMO rather than hitching their wagon to an American league such as the MLS.
Canadian Soccer Association officials envision new league similar to CHL (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/soccer/canadian-soccer-association-officials-envision-new-league-similar-to-chl/article8207672/)


It's not even going to be used for the Woman's World Cup in 2015.
It is not by choice but due to the fact that the Pan Am Games will be using the building and it is an unfortunate scheduling conflict.


Anyone who bashes the Argos has no appreciation for history and no sense of culture. I was reading those comments, what an absolute joke. Some comments were comparing our new imaginary stadium to TFC's on field success, that we'll lose and no one will attend an Argos game and a stadium will sit empty for games just like TFC. TFC started from scratch so they really had no definite fan base, while the Argos have been around for 140 years! I can't read these comments anymore or my computer screen will have a hole in it soon. A bunch of ignorant fools.
It's not often you see intelligent comments under articles on news sites. It's easier to hate on someone that you are ignorant about or something you don't like then to try and see beyond that bias. Some of the comments in this second Argos Stadium Update thread are not much better. I do hope we will see a new facility for the Argos in the next 5 years but right now only time will tell. All I can say now is at least it is being discussed.

[argonaut11xx]

I honestly think that the "Rogers" lobby has folks on payroll to blog, comment, call-in, etc to the various media. This to further the Roger's agenda, and give a false sense of support for the same. (media savvy folks)

I think this, because of what happened recently in Alberta and BC -pollsters being very very wrong about election outcomes. When the REAL people gave thier opinions (VOTED) the true results were shown. However, up until that point, the media led us to believe otherwise.

There ARE alot more Argo-fans than most folks realize.

[Mulder]

It is not by choice but due to the fact that the Pan Am Games will be using the building and it is an unfortunate scheduling conflict.


Well I guess I can look forward to going to a Soccer game at the National Soccer Stadium for the pan-am games then......

[T-Bone]

Well I guess I can look forward to going to a Soccer game at the National Soccer Stadium for the pan-am games then......
BMO Field is being used for Rugby during the Pan-Am Games.

[Mulder]

BMO Field is being used for Rugby during the Pan-Am Games.

Oh. So the National Soccer Stadium is not being used for the sports it was built for, for 2 of the most major summer sporting events to ever come to this country?

[gilthethrill]

T-Bone, I don't know what the attendance was for the 2010 MLS Cup in Toronto, but I remember it was on Grey Cup Sunday, the weather was not great and it was a night game.

If I remember correctly, the stands looked empty when I saw highlights. I would be impressed if it generated the amount of revenue you suspect, no offense intended to you or the MLS.

My point is the Grey Cup seems to be embraced on a more regular basis by Toronto.

[VANRIDERFAN]

I honestly think that the "Rogers" lobby has folks on payroll to blog, comment, call-in, etc to the various media. This to further the Roger's agenda, and give a false sense of support for the same. (media savvy folks)

I think this, because of what happened recently in Alberta and BC -pollsters being very very wrong about election outcomes. When the REAL people gave thier opinions (VOTED) the true results were shown. However, up until that point, the media led us to believe otherwise.

There ARE alot more Argo-fans than most folks realize.

I think it was Jim Hunt (please correct me if I'm wrong) that said (parphrasing) "Watching the CFL is like watching Porn. Everybody does it, you just don't tell your neighbours your doing it!"

[T-Bone]

Oh. So the National Soccer Stadium is not being used for the sports it was built for, for 2 of the most major summer sporting events to ever come to this country?
I fail to see you point. Had Canada been awarded the Women's World Cup before Toronto got the Pan Am Games I'm positive games would have been played there. Since it happened the other way around it can't happen. Why the Pan Am Games are using BMO Field for Rugby instead of soccer I don't know. I'm not a Pan Am organizer but BMO Field can accommodate Rugby.


T-Bone, I don't know what the attendance was for the 2010 MLS Cup in Toronto, but I remember it was on Grey Cup Sunday, the weather was not great and it was a night game.

If I remember correctly, the stands looked empty when I saw highlights. I would be impressed if it generated the amount of revenue you suspect, no offense intended to you or the MLS.

My point is the Grey Cup seems to be embraced on a more regular basis by Toronto.
None taken. The weather was terrible, I was at the game and there were many empty seats. Toronto was a neutral site as Toronto FC was not in the game. The MLS has changed the format as they realized neutral sites don't work very well for MLS Cups. No offense but comparing the MLS Cup to the Grey Cup is like comparing apples to oranges so I fail to see why you brought it up.

[Mulder]

I fail to see you point.

Removing these would help

http://sas.guidespot.com/bundles/guides_95/assets/widget_cw5dtnRKLnkR5MUB3Xyi7F.jpg

[ArgoRavi]

BMO Field is being used for Rugby during the Pan-Am Games.

Couldn't rugby potentially rip up the grass field just as much as Canadian football could? If rugby is acceptable to the MLSE folks, then there isn't any reason why Canadian football shouldn't be (I am only talking about the grass here).

[T-Bone]

Removing these would help
Maybe I should rephrase. I see your point but I consider it weak.


Couldn't rugby potentially rip up the grass field just as much as Canadian football could? If rugby is acceptable to the MLSE folks, then there isn't any reason why Canadian football shouldn't be (I am only talking about the grass here).
I'm sure TFC will have a stretch of away games will the Pan Am Games are in town allowing enough time to sort things out with the field. They have been playing one Rugby game a year at BMO Field for the past 3 years I believe and there hasn't been an issue. If the Argos were to move in you would be looking at 10 dates plus potential scheduling conflicts due to the grass maintenance and the leagues schedules.

[argos1873]

How much $$ did the MLS Cup generate for Toronto when it was played there a couple years ago?

The MLS Cup was played in Toronto? I really didn't know.


Oh. So the National Soccer Stadium is not being used for the sports it was built for, for 2 of the most major summer sporting events to ever come to this country?

What a joke, and proves why this whole National Soccer Stadium, was also used as a political "football" by politicians because politicians believe that immigrants and visible minorities would love such a thing, when really its only corporations like MLSE that push that garbage to get what they want. True many immigrants and visible minorities love soccer, but most could care less about Canadian soccer, or even TFC. But it feels good to say, and in Toronto, feel good is better than what actually works.


I think it was Jim Hunt (please correct me if I'm wrong) that said (parphrasing) "Watching the CFL is like watching Porn. Everybody does it, you just don't tell your neighbours your doing it!"

It was the late great Jim Hunt, god rest his soul.


I fail to see you point. Had Canada been awarded the Women's World Cup before Toronto got the Pan Am Games I'm positive games would have been played there. Since it happened the other way around it can't happen. Why the Pan Am Games are using BMO Field for Rugby instead of soccer I don't know. I'm not a Pan Am organizer but BMO Field can accommodate Rugby.

I understand it was a 1 or the other situation, albeit poor planning on someone's part, but that's understandable. But it didn't turn out to be a 1 or the other situation. Soccer won't be played at EITHER event at the so called National Soccer Stadium. How pathetic is that?


No offense but comparing the MLS Cup to the Grey Cup is like comparing apples to oranges so I fail to see why you brought it up.

Please explain why? I hope you didn't give yourself too much rope to hang yourself with that comment.

[Mulder]

Maybe I should rephrase. I see your point but I consider it weak.


It's a weak point that the National Soccer Stadium is not used by the National soccer teams, and when Womans World Cup and Pan-Am games come to town it won't be used for it's intended purpose, as the "National Soccer Stadium"? Your are still wearing your soccer contacts.

[AngeloV]

Wow....Please everyone, leave my buddy T-Bone alone. :D

[argonaut11xx]

I think it was Jim Hunt (please correct me if I'm wrong) that said (parphrasing) "Watching the CFL is like watching Porn. Everybody does it, you just don't tell your neighbours your doing it!"

Yeppers....and it still stands true today...hence my point.

CFL fans outnumber any other fanbase in Canada, except for NHL. So to the bloggers, call-in's, and other internet savvy folks who make the impression that the CFL is not relevant...i say BEWARE.

WE (cfl fans) are huge in numbers, and some of us older one's, not so savvy on the internet, or in doing surveys, or in posting on media outlets comments sections...hell, invite us to your TV room, and watch a game with us, THEN you'll get a CFL fans opinion....

Like Mr Hunt said....we are a quiet majority of good old Canadians

[argolio]

It's a lot easier to raise $500 million than $3 billion. He brought a lot more than $500 million to the table for the casino project, and surely a stadium/residential/commercial complex would be a lot less contentious than a casino/residential/commercial complex.Those are good points but I still think it's not going to be an easy sell.

[Gill The Thrill]

Hey Snowrogue, a soccer specific stadium is crucial and huge for the country. How else will Canada to prepare to lose Gold Cup games to that powerhouse Martinique? Can't blame soccer Canada though, Martinique is going to be a power to reckon with at Brazil 2014.

[Gill The Thrill]

Folks, Keep the Argos as far away from MLSE as possible...If it comes down to it, the Argos might as well fold because MLSE will drive it to the ground anyway. The whole place is a joke...even this asshat they hired from LA, Tim Lieweke...I guess the problem with the Leafs all those years was the old pictures of their old time greats holding the Stanley Cup...sheesh, if that's supposed to be innovation, it might as well be Bettman running the team or FOX sports...Remember when they got baseball tv rights and forbid their announcers from mentioning MLB's old great players....talk about dumbing down the audience, but hey, MLSE has been doing that for generations anyway...it's no wonder these same morons would be pissing all over this idea about a stadium for the Argos.

[gilthethrill]

Folks, Keep the Argos as far away from MLSE as possible...If it comes down to it, the Argos might as well fold because MLSE will drive it to the ground anyway. The whole place is a joke...even this asshat they hired from LA, Tim Lieweke...I guess the problem with the Leafs all those years was the old pictures of their old time greats holding the Stanley Cup...sheesh, if that's supposed to be innovation, it might as well be Bettman running the team or FOX sports...Remember when they got baseball tv rights and forbid their announcers from mentioning MLB's old great players....talk about dumbing down the audience, but hey, MLSE has been doing that for generations anyway...it's no wonder these same morons would be pissing all over this idea about a stadium for the Argos.

GILL, I really enjoyed reading your opinion on MLSE!

[R.J]

http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/zach-paikin/toronto-football-stadium_b_3645275.html?utm_hp_ref=tw

[T-Bone]

The MLS Cup was played in Toronto? I really didn't know.
It wasn't the best advertised event.


I understand it was a 1 or the other situation, albeit poor planning on someone's part, but that's understandable. But it didn't turn out to be a 1 or the other situation. Soccer won't be played at EITHER event at the so called National Soccer Stadium. How pathetic is that?
Like I said before I'm not a Pan Am organizer so I don't know why they choose to put Rugby at BMO Field outside of the fact that it can accommodate it. I'm sure Ti-Cat fans don't find this situation "pathetic" and are happy with the new Pan Am Soccer Stadium being built.


Please explain why? I hope you didn't give yourself too much rope to hang yourself with that comment.
gilthethrill said:


My point is the Grey Cup seems to be embraced on a more regular basis by Toronto.
Considering the MLS Cup has only been played in Toronto once there really is no disputing that statement, it's stating the obvious. Outside of that though, it's comparing a now 100 year old tradition that is engrained in Canadian culture to an event that saw only its 17th edition last year. From what I understand of Grey Cup history it wasn't until the 36th edition in 1948 that the Grey Cup event that we now know started taking on its current format when some Calgary fans decided to take the train to Toronto and turn the place in to a party town. I enjoyed myself at MLS Cup 2010 and I was impressed by the traveling support of both the Dallas and Colorado fans. Though, like I said before the MLS realized that the neutral site for the MLS Cup was not the best option and starting last year the Cup finals are hosted by the participant with the highest point total during the regular season.


It's a weak point that the National Soccer Stadium is not used by the National soccer teams, and when Womans World Cup and Pan-Am games come to town it won't be used for it's intended purpose, as the "National Soccer Stadium"? Your are still wearing your soccer contacts.
The National Soccer Stadium is being used by the national soccer teams, just not enough to make you happy apparently. Perhaps you don't understand how the international system works. It's not like a league where there is a set number of games played each year, there are only so many FIFA international dates a year. Also Canada is a pretty large country geographically so it is not fair that the national teams only play in one place. The good thing is we are getting the majority of the national team games at BMO Field and the ones that matter like the last two rounds of the MNT WCQ.

[Mulder]

The National Soccer Stadium is being used by the national soccer teams, just not enough to make you happy apparently. Perhaps you don't understand how the international system works. It's not like a league where there is a set number of games played each year, there are only so many FIFA international dates a year. Also Canada is a pretty large country geographically so it is not fair that the national teams only play in one place. The good thing is we are getting the majority of the national team games at BMO Field and the ones that matter like the last two rounds of the MNT WCQ.

No one cares here cares about how the International schedule works. This isn't a debate about how the International soccer schedule works either, so take that topic somewhere else.

People complain about building a facility for a team that has 10 maybe 11 dates per year. Yet the purpose of the "National Soccer Stadium" is for "National Teams" Who average less than 3 dates a year.

[herrington2828]

Get people involved! Invite friends out! Make them aware ... I've been having a tough time getting more than 1 or 2 people to come with me to games these days, so one strategy I used was to post on facebook that anyone who wants to see real athletes and real people play Canadian football, should like my status and I would hook them up with a free pair - I used the following link and sent it to the 29 people (so far) who liked the status - http://www.argonauts.ca/fan-survey - quite a few women and people that I would have never seen as football fans said they plan on going.

Even if just 10% of these people become fans, that's 58 tickets, and 5-6 more fans I can enjoy a game with ... just an idea for others to tweet/facebook as well.

[T-Bone]

No one cares here cares about how the International schedule works. This isn't a debate about how the International soccer schedule works either, so take that topic somewhere else.Well it does affect how many dates the national teams play, so I think it's relevant to what you are debating here.


People complain about building a facility for a team that has 10 maybe 11 dates per year. Yet the purpose of the "National Soccer Stadium" is for "National Teams" Who average less than 3 dates a year.
That's why TFC was brought in. Club teams are where national team players are chosen from.


Get people involved! Invite friends out! Make them aware ... I've been having a tough time getting more than 1 or 2 people to come with me to games these days, so one strategy I used was to post on facebook that anyone who wants to see real athletes and real people play Canadian football, should like my status and I would hook them up with a free pair - I used the following link and sent it to the 29 people (so far) who liked the status - http://www.argonauts.ca/fan-survey - quite a few women and people that I would have never seen as football fans said they plan on going.

Even if just 10% of these people become fans, that's 58 tickets, and 5-6 more fans I can enjoy a game with ... just an idea for others to tweet/facebook as well.
Well done, good idea. I got one person to get season tickets this year and I influenced another person who had never been to an Argo game to come to a few and is now hocked. I'll put this up on my Facebook wall as well.

[Mulder]

Well it directly affects how many dates the national teams play, so I think it's relevant to what you are debating here.

No it doesn't. You just wanted to throw a soccer reference in the double blue room.


That's why TFC was brought in. Club teams are where national team players are chosen from.

This isn't a TFC debate. MLS has plans for a Toronto team well before the BMO Field.

[1argoholic]

This BS debate with Toronto CFL haters has been going on since the Argos left the mistake by the lake. I cut friends lose because they had too much fun joking about Argo losses. Haven't talked to them in over 20 years. Plenty of wannabees in TO that I truely do HATE. It is a strage city that I'll never figure out. I haven't heard people in any other city in Canada rip their CFL team or the league such as the fools in TO do. I do love the city but have very little use for many of people. They are a bunch of followers.

Every city has it's issues when trying to build a new stadium. Look at Ottawa.

You'll always get the bleeding hearts who want money for the homeless or to built a safe injection site. Screw them!!

Good thing we'll be living in the sticks so I don't have to bump into too many of these fools. As you can tell when I read the comments of these Richards it just makes my blood boil.

Where you CFL gear around as much as you can and raise the middle finger high to the masses of asses.

[Argocister]

http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/zach-paikin/toronto-football-stadium_b_3645275.html?utm_hp_ref=tw

LOVE THIS ARTICLE. !!!

It may be too logical and make Canadians proud of what they have.


It ........ with the new Pan Am Soccer Stadium being built...........Considering the MLS Cup has only been played in......
The National Soccer Stadium is being u..............

Tbone, you're becoming like Rocket and switching all your discussions to soccer. Don't make me ignore you. :)

[shayman]

I haven't heard people in any other city in Canada rip their CFL team or the league such as the fools in TO do. .

Not to defend the CFL haters here in Toronto, but really - that mindset isn't unique to Toronto. It's just that no other city has even an outside shot at an NFL team.

Nobody's talking about an NFL team for Calgary or Regina. If there was even an outside shot at one, though, I bet you'd suddenly find a lot of CFL haters in those cities too.

[ArgoRavi]

Not to defend the CFL haters here in Toronto, but really - that mindset isn't unique to Toronto. It's just that no other city has even an outside shot at an NFL team.

Nobody's talking about an NFL team for Calgary or Regina. If there was even an outside shot at one, though, I bet you'd suddenly find a lot of CFL haters in those cities too.

I think that Steve makes a valid point here. If we were to go back to Montreal in the 1970s and 1980s, we would find similar attitudes as we have seen in Toronto since the late 1980s. Gerry Snyder was their Paul Godfrey. Eventually, all the NFL talk just died out in Montreal and hopefully some day the same will happen in Toronto although Toronto seems to be much more driven to prove its "U.S. world-class city" status as compared to Montreal.

[ArgoRedneck]

I will say it again. People want to come to an event not just a game. They want a stadium that is fun. A place where they can party. A place kids can throw the pigskin around with their parents or friends. Lots of people go to Bills, NASCAR not because they are huge fans but for the event. I don't mean to offend but there are alot of "CITY-iots" that we CFL'ers have wrecking our fun. Get out of Toronto proper to where the fans of the Argos exist. 2,000,000 thats 2,000,000 people with access to transit do not support the Argos. Its is now time to try the GTA and surrounding area.

[Fungi]

I will say it again. People want to come to an event not just a game. They want a stadium that is fun. A place where they can party. A place kids can throw the pigskin around with their parents or friends. Lots of people go to Bills, NASCAR not because they are huge fans but for the event. I don't mean to offend but there are alot of "CITY-iots" that we CFL'ers have wrecking our fun. Get out of Toronto proper to where the fans of the Argos exist. 2,000,000 thats 2,000,000 people with access to transit do not support the Argos. Its is now time to try the GTA and surrounding area.

Agreed!
You know who else would agree, Rocket...
Sorry, but the marketing is almost non-existent. I think people in BC know more about the Flyin' Hawaiian than the people in TO. If you didn't like the rockets rant, scroll down. I agreed with him. Half assed intellectuals trying to give a lesson on debating 101, is pathetic. I love a good rant. It's like hockey...'Let 'em go". If you don't like his/my opinion, well...you could take a big long suck on my arse. Next post. Hit a button. He didn't swear once.

[1argoholic]

If there's CFL haters in other cities you have to dig to find them. I haven't heard one bad comment while living in BC the last almost 11 years. Never heard bad CFL comments in my many trips to Calgary. TO is full of Richards!!! TO is very unique and not in a good way.

I do agree with Redneck and if we had our own stadium which will be the case it will be more of an event and party. Rogers doesn't give a crap so they don't go out of their way. People want to feel welcome in their home stadium. Argo Dome will be great. I don't care what non fans and haters think. This is not only a sports franchise but major Canadian history.

[Fungi]

LOVE THIS ARTICLE. !!!

It may be too logical and make Canadians proud of what they have.



Tbone, you're becoming like Rocket and switching all your discussions to soccer. Don't make me ignore you. :)

One of the reasons I left. One of Mulders favorite boys. This is a football sight!!!!Piss- off!

[Will]

One of the reasons I left. One of Mulders favorite boys. This is a football sight!!!!Piss- off!

Your welcome to take another hiatus if he offends you so.

[Ballstothewall]

LOVE THIS ARTICLE. !!!

It may be too logical and make Canadians proud of what they have.

It is a great article, but again, in the comments section of the article, the Argos and CFL are taking a beating, with mostly B.S being thrown out at them. Why have not more of us responded to this crap and write back in the comments section. i know that i am setting up an account right now to respond back to these fools, and most of us on here should do the same

[LLB997]

It is a great article, but again, in the comments section of the article, the Argos and CFL are taking a beating, with mostly B.S being thrown out at them. Why have not more of us responded to this crap and write back in the comments section. i know that i am setting up an account right now to respond back to these fools, and most of us on here should do the same

Not really. sure there are a few neg but there should be when it comes down to a taxpayers money. I see alot of support out there. On the Sun poll last i checked 43 percent support an Argo stadium which is huge for any team.

[shayman]

I haven't heard one bad comment while living in BC the last almost 11 years.

I believe you. But only in BC do we have Canadian universities (UBC, SFU) obsessed with joining the NCAA. Apparently there are US-wannabes on the west coast too.

[Ballstothewall]

Not really. sure there are a few neg but there should be when it comes down to a taxpayers money. I see alot of support out there. On the Sun poll last i checked 43 percent support an Argo stadium which is huge for any team.

It went down to 37% that was posted in today paper. Plus the tax payer arguement I have no issue with. I have an issue with the comments that are posted there, about the CFL being minor league. The no one cares about the Argos, the NFL is huge in Toronto, These are the comments I'm talking about

[LLB997]

It went down to 37% that was posted in today paper. Plus the tax payer arguement I have no issue with. I have an issue with the comments that are posted there, about the CFL being minor league. The no one cares about the Argos, the NFL is huge in Toronto, These are the comments I'm talking about

you are always going to get that group out there. but i read a lot of positive comments too. even 37 percent is alot considering its sucha blk/wht question. If it ever came down to a time when the Argos were on the brink of extinction , i expect alot of casual sports types would rally behind saving this Canadian institution.

[argolio]

If we were to go back to Montreal in the 1970s and 1980s, we would find similar attitudes as we have seen in Toronto since the late 1980s. Gerry Snyder was their Paul Godfrey. Eventually, all the NFL talk just died out in Montreal and hopefully some day the same will happen in Toronto although Toronto seems to be much more driven to prove its "U.S. world-class city" status as compared to Montreal.One small problem - a lot of Montreal's NFL wannabees moved to Toronto!

[1argoholic]

Just look around and take in what most people are all about. They are sheep. Followers. Toronto is full of people who can't make up their own minds. They have listened to the NFL, World Class City BS for so many years that they believe it. Somehow they think they're about the CFL. I say a huge letter after E to them, followed by a double middle finger salute. Just some of the issues fans in the rest of Canada don't have to deal with.
Oh and when someone wants to yap off about how few teams are in the CFL you can drop the line about the Leafs last Cup was when there was only six teams. That article was great.

[Gill The Thrill]

It went down to 37% that was posted in today paper. Plus the tax payer arguement I have no issue with. I have an issue with the comments that are posted there, about the CFL being minor league. The no one cares about the Argos, the NFL is huge in Toronto, These are the comments I'm talking about

It was only a few people that kept posting the negative comments about the Argos and the league. If anything it was more Rob Ford haters who had negative comments toward him. 37% is actually very strong support for a football stadium when you consider that most people don't care much or less...It might be that I'm older but I really think the NFL is not more popular now in Toronto than it was 20 years ago...Believe it or not, I think basketball, since the Raptors entered the NBA and soccer, since the access to top level leagues in Europe is more available on TV, has cut into the American football support among the younger demographic in the GTA. 37% means that people do care about the Argos and know how displaced the team is at the Rogers Centre....They have no identity there, but would in a new stadium. I think there would be some dissension by people who never followed the CFL anyway, but by those who are football fans, including NFL fans first, an identity and football atmosphere at a football specific stadium at Downsview, or wherever, could be what the doctor ordered to provide stability and legitimacy to the Argos and to Canadian Football in general.

[T-Bone]

Tbone, you're becoming like Rocket and switching all your discussions to soccer. Don't make me ignore you. :)
I didn't bring up the topic, I just responded to other people that brought it up.


One of the reasons I left. One of Mulders favorite boys. This is a football sight!!!!Piss- off!
Welcome back Fungi. Glad to see you haven't changed.


Get people involved! Invite friends out! Make them aware ... I've been having a tough time getting more than 1 or 2 people to come with me to games these days, so one strategy I used was to post on facebook that anyone who wants to see real athletes and real people play Canadian football, should like my status and I would hook them up with a free pair - I used the following link and sent it to the 29 people (so far) who liked the status - http://www.argonauts.ca/fan-survey - quite a few women and people that I would have never seen as football fans said they plan on going.

Even if just 10% of these people become fans, that's 58 tickets, and 5-6 more fans I can enjoy a game with ... just an idea for others to tweet/facebook as well.
Sent it around my office and I got a decent response. Hopefully this plan works and drums up some business for the team.

[herrington2828]

Sent it around my office and I got a decent response. Hopefully this plan works and drums up some business for the team.

Nice!! I got about 20 facebook friends coming out tomorrow, so hopefully section 134 is a loud one!

[argos1873]

I posted the survey on Redflagdeals, which for those who don't know, is a very popular Canadian deals site. In hindsight, I'm not sure if it was the right thing to do, because shortly after, the survey is no longer available. But my thinking was to try to get as many tickets into people's hands as possible. Hopefully, the so called RFD effect worked, and there will be a lot of fans in the stands come the next 2 home games. And even more hopefully, a portion of those who got free tickets return with paid tickets.

[Ron]

Just look around and take in what most people are all about. They are sheep. Followers. Toronto is full of people who can't make up their own minds. They have listened to the NFL, World Class City BS for so many years that they believe it. Somehow they think they're about the CFL. I say a huge letter after E to them, followed by a double middle finger salute. Just some of the issues fans in the rest of Canada don't have to deal with.
Oh and when someone wants to yap off about how few teams are in the CFL you can drop the line about the Leafs last Cup was when there was only six teams. That article was great.

Toronto is not full of people like that. Most people in Toronto could care less about the NFL. You've been gone a long time from here and spout off like Toronto hasn't changed since you've been gone.

The only people who spout off like you say are just the type of idiotic morons that spout off about anything they don't understand and carry a negative slant against anything their little pea brains don't like. But that is not most of the people by a long shot.

[AngeloV]

Toronto is not full of people like that. Most people in Toronto could care less about the NFL. You've been gone a long time from here and spout off like Toronto hasn't changed since you've been gone.

The only people who spout off like you say are just the type of idiotic morons that spout off about anything they don't understand and carry a negative slant against anything their little pea brains don't like. But that is not most of the people by a long shot.

True..but it is the majority of Torontonians that follow sports.

[1argoholic]

Been gone almost 11 years but as of Friday morning we're off this rock. Packing for huge moves SUCKS!

So you're saying Ron that in that 10 plus years all of a sudden no one in Toronto cares about the NFL? I don't believe that for a second. Some may have dropped the dream of a team in TO but I bet shite bars are full every Sunday with a rainbow of NFL jersey colours.

Oh well we'll be back but far enough away.

[Stevoman]

I'm not sure if this has been posted before but thought I'd put it here just in case:https://www.facebook.com/Argosstadium?hc_location=stream

[flafson]

To be honest, i like our current stadium and hope we don't get kicked out...

[zontar]

Simmons takes a shot at Rogers.

"....the coverage, on various Rogers platforms, comes off far too often as infomerical like".

Finally, somebody in media has the nards to call them on it.

[AngeloV]

19 days to go for me before I officially change from Rogers services to Bell. I noticed that since I have canceled, my Rogers services have been worse. My digital cable pixilates frequently, making it difficult to watch tv, and my Internet service has gone down 5 times over the last 3 weeks. May be just a coincidence, but I doubt it.

[paulwoods13]

Simmons takes a shot at Rogers.

"....the coverage, on various Rogers platforms, comes off far too often as infomerical like".

Finally, somebody in media has the nards to call them on it.

And (gadzooks!) it's someone many CFL fans seem to think hates the CFL, is a shill for Rogers, etc. Will wonders never cease.

[ArgoRavi]

And (gadzooks!) it's someone many CFL fans seem to think hates the CFL, is a shill for Rogers, etc. Will wonders never cease.

LOL, Paul! Simmons seems to have improved since becoming employed by TSN which might also help to explain his shot at Rogers.

[bluto]

he was still wayyyy too kind. but at least somebody finally said something.

[OV Argo]

And (gadzooks!) it's someone many CFL fans seem to think hates the CFL, is a shill for Rogers, etc. Will wonders never cease.


Sorry - Simmons is still a little dweeb who knows little / cares little for the CFL and continues to fawn over all sorts of already over-hyped "big-league" sports = a big part of the problem for the CFL getting back true/ lots of respect in it's own country - these type of clueless clowns continuing to get forums in major media outlets.

[Ticats85]

Things that the FAN590 morning show talked about before the Argos big win in Montreal, Tennis, SCTV, X-Files, Detroit Tigers,PGA,Lesbians, Strange Brew movie, SNL and then about 35-40 minutes in they talk about the Argos win by making fun of the CFL for about 3 minutes. I don't usually listen to that show but I was curious to see if they mentioned the Argos, I'm not even a Argos fan obviously but this still angers me.

[AngeloV]

Things that the FAN590 morning show talked about before the Argos big win in Montreal, Tennis, SCTV, X-Files, Detroit Tigers,PGA,Lesbians, Strange Brew movie, SNL and then about 35-40 minutes in they talk about the Argos win by making fun of the CFL for about 3 minutes. I don't usually listen to that show but I was curious to see if they mentioned the Argos, I'm not even a Argos fan obviously but this still angers me.

Stop listening to that station. I have.

[Will]

I do not listen to the FAN 590 anymore either and I have not listened to it in any regular basis since Nelson Millman was fired as the program director or whatever his title was.

[Ticats85]

Ya haven't listened to 590 in a long time but curiosity got the best of me to see if they would even mention the Argos this morning. It wont happen again, TSN radio all the way, they talk about the CFL and aren't complete corporate shills because they also talk about things that Bell doesn't own.

[gilthethrill]

FAN590 died for me the day Stelleck, Landry & Hogan were let go...listening to PTS because I get no other reception in my car, has becoming painful & repetitive...

[argolio]

FAN590 died for me the day Stelleck, Landry & Hogan were let go...listening to PTS because I get no other reception in my car, has becoming painful & repetitive...Some people now refer to PTS as the FOB (Friends Of Bob) show, as in there's way too much useless banter with Bob and his pals. He can still pull off an interesting interview occasionally, but for the most part he's just mailing it in these days.

[zontar]

Listened to the FAN a lot over the years. CFL had a place, not huge but it was there. Had a feeling the corporate takeover and makeover with hyping Rogers and youth market wouldnt be good. Not a big baseball fan and since they went whole-hog on the Jays I listened less and less.

Corporate influence on what should be focussed on became pretty obvious quickly. Last straw came , after a spectacular GC week and a sent - from -heaven Toronto-centric victory McCowan's lead-in to PTS was how much gov't money organizers got.

It thought it demeaned Bob as a serious commentator, destroyed his image as a "maverick" or "rebel" or whatever he thought he was. He's just another corporate foot soldier cashing Rogers cheques.

[Argocister]

............. He's just another corporate foot soldier cashing Rogers cheques.

Nice description!

[mint83]

This has probably been discussed before but Brunt strikes me as a big phony too. He likes to mention how his family have been such big Ticat fans over the years but never hesitates to slam the CFL on PTS. For years, he wrote mainly negative stories in the Globe about the demise of the CFL due to things like the Bills invasion and dips in scoring. Yet he makes money off writing a Grey Cup book and attending the announcement of Tim's sponsoring Hamilton's new stadium. I think he deceives CFL fans and wish he would stick to covering the big league sports in his mind like baseball and soccer.

[AngeloV]

This has probably been discussed before but Brunt strikes me as a big phony too. He likes to mention how his family have been such big Ticat fans over the years but never hesitates to slam the CFL on PTS. For years, he wrote mainly negative stories in the Globe about the demise of the CFL due to things like the Bills invasion and dips in scoring. Yet he makes money off writing a Grey Cup book and attending the announcement of Tim's sponsoring Hamilton's new stadium. I think he deceives CFL fans and wish he would stick to covering the big league sports in his mind like baseball and soccer.

Again, I can't help but wonder how much the Rogers paycheck influences what Brunt says and writes about regarding the CFL. I don't go to a lot of Cats home games anymore, but I used to go to 3 or 4 every year, and I saw Brunt an awful lot sitting in the stands for those games and not the press area. I truly believe he is a fan, but knows who's paying him a lot of money these days.