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CFL Toronto Argonauts

Toronto Argonauts sign running back Ricky Williams

May 28, 2006 - Canadian Football League (CFL)
Toronto Argonauts News Release


Toronto - The Toronto Argonauts Football Club announced today in a media conference that it has signed a one-year contract with running back Ricky Williams. The Argonauts would like to thank the Miami Dolphins, in particular President and COO Bryan Wiedemeier and Head Coach Nick Saban for granting permission for Williams to join the Boatmen while serving a one year suspension from the NFL. With the signing, Williams becomes the second Heisman Trophy winner and the fourth first round NFL draft pick on the Argos' current roster.

Commented Ricky Williams, "I am excited to begin this new chapter of my life. Everyone I have met with the Toronto Argonauts organization has been extremely welcoming and kind, from the owners to management to the football staff. I am looking forward to join my new teammates at training camp and get to know them and the city of Toronto. I can't wait to hit the field and take part in community events as an Argo."

President and CEO Keith Pelley remarked, "We all know Ricky Williams is special on the field but what I've learned in the last couple of days is that Ricky Williams is more special off the field. Working side by side with the legendary Mike 'Pinball' Clemons, I can categorically foresee how influential these two men can be to Toronto's youth. Ricky has made mistakes, but he will be the first to tell you he has learned from those mistakes. You only have to spend ten minutes with him to understand. On behalf of the entire Toronto Argonauts organization, we welcome Ricky to our team."

Head Coach Michael "Pinball" Clemons enthused, "When a signing of this magnitude becomes a topic of discussion, there is always both excitement and trepidation and it is imperative that we fully investigate both the pros and cons, not only for our organization but our League as a whole. I've personally given this considerable consideration and unequivocally understand my personal position. This, however, did not satisfy my concerns for our League and our fans. That is, until I met Ricky Williams. He is quite literally one of the kindest and most thoughtful persons I have ever spent time with. He is a kindred spirit, a man after my own heart, whose articulated desire is to serve others. Interestingly enough, I haven't said anything about his physical talents because it is Ricky Williams the man that is most impressive. Ricky, welcome to the Double Blue! And to our fans, soon you will be a fan too."

Ricky Williams will practice for the first time as a Toronto Argonaut tomorrow as the team continues two-a-days at 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

The Toronto Argonauts are North America's oldest professional football club, having celebrated their 130th anniversary in 2003. The Toronto Argonauts have 15 Grey Cup championships to their credit. For more information on 2006 season ticket packages, please contact the sales team at (416) 341-ARGO. Full roster details are available at www.argonauts.ca.

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The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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