In 2021, it’s really not official until you change your Twitter handle.
The Ottawa Redblacks announced the hiring of new general manager Shawn Burke on Sunday, but the long-time Hamilton Tiger-Cat known as @ticatsguy online still had to make one major change after the ink was dry on the contract.
Taking to his Twitter account, Burke delivered a heartfelt goodbye to the Ticats organization and officially unveiled a new handle: @RedblackBurkey.
“Signing off as @ticatsguy… To the players, coaches, and staff… This opportunity is because of all of you. To Ticats fans, thank you for being great!! You guys are in phenomenal hands with [head coach] Orlondo Steinauer and [director of player personnel] Drew Allemang leading the way. I have cherished every moment of 15 years.
Last tweet, [owner/caretaker] Bob Young, thank you for everything personally and professionally. Finally, [president] Scott Mitchell, your day in and day out pursuit of excellence will always be a part of me. You were more than a boss, you are more than a mentor and much more than a friend. Thank you!!!”
Burke previously served as the senior director of personnel & co-manager of football operations for the Ticats, where the Guelph native negotiated most of Hamilton’s contracts and took the lead on the club’s strategy in free agency.
He has been biding his time with the Ticats for over a decade, originally serving as the club’s Director of Community Relations and Communications.
