The Calgary Stampeders have a new team president as Jay McNeil has taken the role from John Hufnagel, who will remain with the organization as a special advisor to head coach and general manager Dave Dickenson.
“Jay’s passion for football coupled with his corporate success will position the Stampeders for the next chapter of growth and success both on and off the field,” said Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation (CSEC) president and CEO John Bean in a statement.
“The entire CSEC family extends our heartfelt appreciation to John Hufnagel for his many years of leadership to the Calgary Stampeders Football Club and active member on the CSEC Senior Management Team.”
McNeil joined the Stampeders during the 2022 season as their vice-president of business operations. He played along Calgary’s offensive line from 1994 to 2007 and was a six-time West Division all-star and two-time Grey Cup champion.
The 53-year-old native of London, Ont. started a successful business career in Calgary following his retirement from the CFL, working for Trinidad Drilling, Tervita, Secure Energy, and Cleantek Industries. He has a Bachelor of Business Administration from Kent State University and a Master’s of Business Administration from the University of Fredericton.
McNeil previously served as a trustee for the CFL Players Pension Plan and as vice-president of the Canadian Football League Players’ Association.
“From the time of Jay’s arrival, the plan was always for Jay to grow into the president’s role and he’s done an excellent job. He’s earned this opportunity,” said Hufnagel. “I look forward to continuing to represent the Stampeders organization and to assisting both Jay and Dave.”
Hufnagel has been with the Stampeders since 2008 when he became the club’s head coach and general manager. He relinquished his duties as head coach following the 2015 season when he was named the club’s president. The 72-year-old later gave up his role as general manager to Dickenson following the 2022 season.
