Amature football in Edmonton is getting a bit of a boost Friday thanks to the city’s Canadian Football League (CFL) franchise.
The Edmonton Elks announced a $500,000 donation will be going to five amateur football organizations, thanks to the 50/50 raffle from the 2018 Grey Cup.
Of those groups, the Edmonton Huskies and Wildcats of the Canadian Junior Football League (CJFL) will each be receiving $102,000. The University of Alberta Golden Bears will be receiving $100,000 for its football program.
In addition, Football Alberta will receive $106,000, with Capital District Minor Football receiving $40,000.
“After successfully hosting the 2018 Grey Cup, the Club has been waiting for the right moment and organizations to share the 50/50 proceeds with,” said Elks President and CEO Rick LeLacheur. “Today’s announcement ensures amateur football opportunities are strengthened in our community at the university, junior, and minor football levels.”
The announcement comes as the Elks bid to host Canada’s top football championship once again.
“We hope to bring the 2026 Grey Cup back to Edmonton, so the Club and our community can once again reap the benefits of hosting the biggest game on the CFL calendar,” said LeLacheur.
That decision from the CFL won’t be known until the weekend of the 2024 Grey Cup in Vancouver.