The Toronto Argonauts are mourning the passing of two-time CFL all-star, Grey Cup champion and broadcaster Chris Schultz.
Schultz played nine seasons along the offensive line for the Argos (1986-2004) where he was honoured as a CFL all-Star twice in 1987 and 1988, an East All-Star three times 1987, 1988 and 1991, and helped the Double Blue capture a Grey Cup championship in 1991. The Burlington native was named to the Toronto Argonauts all-time team in 2007.
Before his time in the CFL, the stalwart lineman was drafted in the seventh round of the 1983 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys where he played in 21 games over three seasons for America’s team.
“Chris Schultz was made to play football, or football was made for Chris Schultz. Either way it was a symbiotic relationship. At six-foot-seven, 310 or so muscled pounds, he was tenacious, prepared and dominant,” former teammate and current Argos general manager Michael Clemons said in a statement.
“His vigorous preparation both mentally and physically honoured his profession. It would probably be fair to say, that football was his first love. He played for America’s team, and Canada’s team, we can argue about the latter of the two tomorrow, but not today.”
A fierce competitor on the field but gentle giant away from it, Schultz found a home as a radio and TV broadcaster for The Fan 590 and TSN after his playing days were over. He would go on to provide passionate and knowledgeable coverage of both the CFL and NFL for over 20 years, including the last two seasons as a colour analyst for the Argos on TSN 1050.
“His passion reverberated on radio, television, coaching kids, or walking the dog. He was always willing to talk football. His friends, family and teammates were all in his locker room, where loyalty abounds,” Clemons said.
“My good friend John Candy and I spoke highly of Schultzy often. I’m disappointed because he had more to give, and my fervent hope is, he knew how much he was loved. I’m extending a warm virtual hug to the Argonaut and CFL family today.”
The University of Arizona alum served as the impassioned spokesperson for Purolator’s Tackle Hunger Program for years, which has helped feed over 13 million Canadians since 2003. Widely respected by teammates, opponents and fans alike, Schultz was inducted into the Burlington Sports Hall of Fame in 2015 and the Ontario Sports Hall of Fame in 2016.
The Argonauts organization extends its deepest condolences to Schultz’s family, friends and fans, to whom there are many.
