Alumni Leaders Celebrated for Excellence On and Off the Field

Three former CFL Ottawa alumni have been honoured this year with inductions into their respective community sport halls of fame, recognizing their outstanding football careers and lasting contributions to sport across Canada.

Chris Gioskos

Chris Gioskos was inducted into the Burlington Sports Hall of Fame for his distinguished university and professional career, including standout play on the offensive line at the University of Guelph and a decade in the CFL, highlighted by his 1993–94 seasons with the Ottawa Rough Riders. His post‑playing years have been marked by dedicated coaching and mentorship, helping to strengthen youth sport and community football in Burlington. There is more information on Chris’s induction on the Bay Observer website:

BURLINGTON SPORTS HALL OF FAME Announces  2026 slate of inductees   – bayobserver.ca Hamilton, Burlington and GTA

Ross Francis

Ross Francis was inducted into the Oshawa Sports Hall of Fame, celebrating his achievements as a dominant defensive lineman at Queen’s University and his CFL career, which included the 1985 and 1986 seasons with the Rough Riders. Francis has remained a committed supporter of local football in Oshawa, mentoring young athletes and contributing to the growth of community programs. Read more about Ross’s induction on the Hall of Fame’s website:

Oshawa Sports Hall of Fame adds fabulous 5 nominees

Val St. Germain

Val St. Germain was inducted into the Ottawa Sport Hall of Fame in recognition of his remarkable 14‑year CFL career and his deep impact on football in the National Capital Region. A first‑overall pick in the 1994 CFL Draft and a veteran of more than 200 regular‑season games, St. Germain played all four seasons with the Ottawa Renegades (2002–2005) and later became a respected coach with the Carleton Ravens, Nepean Eagles, and St. Joseph Jaguars. His recent CFL Alumni Association Indigenous Champion Award further highlights his leadership in advancing inclusion and opportunity in sport. Here is a link to the Ottawa Sport Hall of Fame article about Val’s induction:

Val St. Germain – Ottawa Sport Hall of Fame

Together, these three alumni exemplify excellence on the field and enduring commitment to their communities—an achievement we are proud to celebrate.