By: Ottawa REDBLACKS
Photo: Scott Grant
OTTAWA – The Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group (OSEG) today unveiled a statue forged in the likeness of the greatest coach in Ottawa’s CFL football history, Frank Clair. The statue, created by Master Sculptor Brian Hanlon, is located in TD Place overlooking the field where Clair coached the Ottawa Rough Riders from 1956-1969. His Ottawa teams won three Grey Cups with Clair on the sidelines and two more while he was in the front office as General Manager in the 1970’s.
“Frank Clair’s record of success speaks for itself,” said Russ Jackson, who quarterbacked the Rough Riders to three Grey Cup victories under Clair. “He designed an offense that was perfectly suited to my style of play and he had an uncanny ability to bring out the best in us as individuals and as a team.” Mr. Jackson took part in today’s unveiling ceremony along with Mr. Clair’s daughter, Robin Clair Mason, and grandson Chris Mason.
“I know dad loved living in Ottawa and being here at Lansdowne Park,” said Ms. Clair Mason. “I think it’s a wonderful tribute to have his statue overlooking the field. Hopefully he’ll bring good luck to the REDBLACKS as they carry the torch into Ottawa’s CFL football future.”
Born in Hamilton, Ohio in 1917, Frank James Clair, nicknamed “The Professor” for his scholarly look and studious approach to the game, started his CFL coaching career with the Toronto Argonauts in 1950 and won two Grey Cups with the Argos before joining the Rough Riders in ’56. His Ottawa teams won Grey Cups in 1960, ‘68, ‘69, ’73 and ’76. Mr. Clair was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in the Builder’s category in 1981.
“Ottawa’s CFL history is the foundation of our REDBLACKS organization and Frank Clair’s legacy of success is one we strive to achieve,” said Jeff Hunt, President of OSEG Sports, which owns and operates the REDBLACKS. “It’s a privilege for us to be able to pay tribute to Frank and, by extension, Russ and all the other great players who played for him. I know whenever I look at his statue I’ll be reminded that great things are possible.”
The REDBLACKS will honour Frank Clair’s legacy with a special ceremony prior to their home game this evening against the BC Lions.
