Michael Clemons

[edit] Biography

In the rich 132-year history of the Toronto Argonauts, there are many football heroes who have brought pride to the city of Toronto and the "Double Blue". Lionel Conacher, Bill Symons, Dick Shatto, Condredge Holloway and Doug Flutie have all made their mark on Canadian Football as Argos, but you would be hard pressed to find a more popular name in team history than Michael Clemons.

The man they call "Pinball" officially took over the coaching reins of the Argonauts for the second time on December 17, 2002, after guiding the team to a 4-2 record, and the team's first playoff appearance in 3 years, when he took over as head coach from Gary Etcheverry on an interim basis for the second half of the 2002 season, earning recognition as a finalist for Annis Stukus Trophy honours, an honour he repeated in 2003, 2004 and 2005.

Born and raised in Florida, Clemons began his career in the CFL in 1989 after a brief stint in the National Football League. As a player, Clemons compiled a brilliant CFL career with the Toronto Argonauts, including a pro-football record for most career combined yards with 25,396. On September 15, 2000, "Pinball" hung up his Double Blue jersey after 12 brilliant seasons to move directly into the position of Head Coach. He retired with 12 all-time team records to his credit, including career receptions (682). In 2004, Clemons led the team to its first Grey Cup victory since 1997, his first as Head Coach.

2005

Coach Clemons led the Toronto Argonauts to an 11-7 record, their first Division title since 1997 and their fourth-straight playoff appearance. Under his leadership, veteran quarterback Damon Allen was honoured as the CFL’s Most Outstanding Player.

Known for a personality that is as electric as his style of play on the field was, Clemons redefines the meaning of community involvement and has been recognized by many organizations for his tireless work with charities, schools and other community groups. In 2005, he was an integral part of launching The Argos Foundation – Stop The Violence. In February 2006, Clemons was named Chair of the Youth Challenge Fund by Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty.

Whether in uniform, on the sidelines, or in the front office, Pinball has always been one of Toronto's favourite personalities. Clemons and his wife Diane, along with their treasured daughters, Rachel, Raven, and Rylie, are proud to call Oakville home.

[edit] Statistics

<stats> Coach=Michael Clemons Sport=CFL </stats> <stats> Player=Michael Clemons Sport=CFL </stats> <stats> Player=Michael Clemons Sport=NFL </stats>

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