Photo by Canadian Football League (CFL)
CALGARY — Three Calgary Stampeders will get a chance to chase an Olympic dream this winter.
Defensive backs Adrian Greene and Ashton Miller-Melancon and receiver Jalen Philpot are among the 20 CFL players invited to Football Canada's first-ever Professional National Flag Team Camp, set for November 29 to December 5 in Chula Vista, Calif.
The CFL and the CFL Players' Association have agreed to terms that make the participation possible, including insurance coverage and health benefits for the players while they are at camp. It is the first time active CFL players have taken part in National Team activities.
At the camp, the invitees will learn the rules, techniques, concepts and schemes of the international flag football game under Team Canada coaches, on the road to flag football's Olympic debut at LA28.
"Our goal was simple – give CFL players the opportunity to pursue their dreams of representing their country," said CFL Commissioner Stewart Johnston. "We're proud of the players who have been invited to this historic camp and excited to see them showcase their talents as flag football continues its rise on the road to LA28."
Philpot's invitation adds a family wrinkle to Grey Cup week. His brother Tyson, a Montreal Alouettes receiver, is also on the invite list — Tyson plays in the 113th Grey Cup on Sunday at McMahon Stadium, Jalen's home field, before the two chase national team spots at the same camp.
"This is an incredible opportunity for our members to represent their countries on the world's biggest sporting stage," said CFLPA President Solomon Elimimian.
Quarterbacks Nathan Rourke (BC Lions), Tre Ford (Hamilton Tiger-Cats) and Taylor Elgersma (Winnipeg Blue Bombers) headline the invite list, which draws from all nine CFL clubs.
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