RIP George Reed

[garyfromterrace]

Number 34 has left the field.

Mr. Reed was arguably the GOAT of Canadian Football both on and off the gridiron. The all time leader in rushing touchdowns and second in all time rushing yards (despite playing from '63 to '75 his rushing record was only eclipsed in 2004). Among many other accomplishments he was instrumental in breaking down colour barriers in the CFL. When he broke into the league most teams had limits on the number of black players, George Reed fought and was successful in having these limits eliminated. Prejudice was rampant in Canada when he came to Regina in the early 60's and he was denied rent from numerous houses when he arrived to play for the Roughriders. Because of this, he stayed in a hotel for his first first two seasons with the team. Of course, once he established himself as one of the premier fullbacks in the CFL everyone wanted to be his friend (despite his race). George took this with a grain of salt, however he was vocal (in a time where, understandably, many weren't) when given a chance to discuss our nation's prejudice in the media once he established himself as one of the all-time premier players in the CFL. A ballsy move 50 years ago.

Playing football as a kid, I was always #34 (unless I was QBing, then of course I was Lancaster #23). I was lucky enough to meet Mr. Reed when I was a 12 year old. He was the keynote speaker at a national championship I was competing in and after the banquet, I approached him. I remember the encounter vividly to this day. He was softspoken and appeared excited that I loved football and enjoyed watching the Riders. It made me stoked to play football (I played into my early 30's), and to this day I consider myself a Rider fan to the core.

George Reed, you were an icon. What you did for minorities in sport in Canada will never be forgotten. I'll never forget you that's for damn sure. We lost one of the good ones yesterday.



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