Colleges Ontario 2009 Conference

Michael “Pinball” Clemons — the CEO of the Toronto Argonauts — is a national icon of sporting excellence, community leadership and personal character and integrity. He’s considered to be one of the most likable, respected (and of course, talented) individuals to ever put on a sports jersey in this country. But his legacy may well lie with the thousands of people he has inspired, both on and off the field.

Clemons stands only 5 feet 6 inches and 170 pounds. Despite this – because of this – he has led a spectacular 20-year pro football career, setting CFL records and winning Grey Cups with the Argonauts, as both a player and their head coach. He is now their CEO. His thoughts on his new role encapsulate perfectly the powerful message about perseverance, commitment and leadership he shares with audiences across Canada. “It is now my job to continue to give direction and vision to this organization. Vision without action is dangerous; action without vision is a nightmare. What you want to do is be able to put vision into action. My job is to provide the vision.”

Michael “Pinball” Clemons exhibits a commitment to community –especially to youth – that is unparalleled in Canada. One of his latest project is the Stop the Violence campaign, which encourages grassroots support, business sponsorship and the active participation of communities, schools and government in educating youth and curbing increasing gun violence in the Toronto area.

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