Marc Kealey Online

Earlier this month I was honoured to be part of a wonderful team of alumni, coaching and university staff who hosted the first annual Waterloo Warriors Football Gala.

The event was a huge success and the money raised places the team well on its way to achieving the Renaissance of the Football program and its fundraising goal. The funds raised from the close to 600 people in attendance will go to scholarships, leadership programs and enhanced training tools – all vital elements of a successful football program.

As with all good things, this wasn’t an overnight success. The journey started over a year ago when a core group of supporters, athletes, faculty and alumni committed their time, energy, support and money to bring the football program at the U of Waterloo back to life after having suffered some major blows in the past.

One element of the plan was a call to action of all former football players, alumni, staff and other interested parties to join together to kick off the Renaissance of the program. After much hard work and planning, this was accomplished with resounding success culminating with the First Annual Waterloo Warriors Football Gala raising over $50,000.00.

Guests were enthralled by the evening’s headliner, former CFL and NFL offensive tackle, Chris Schultz whose message was clear – it’s going to be ok! Guest speakers included legendary Coach Tuffy Knight and newly minted UW coach and CFL great Joe Paoapao. Guests were visibly moved by current Warrior Receiver and top 40 under 40 Award Winner, Brandon Eaket whose emotional and motivational talk was a highlight of the evening. Another highlight was the first annual Ring of Honour inductees – outstanding football athletes at Waterloo who exemplify the spirit of the University of Waterloo’s football program. Four former football players from the 70’s, 80’s, 90’s and 00’s decades were inducted to the Ring of Honour.

I am proud of my association with the University of Waterloo and the Warrior football program, my days there in the early 80’s have netted me many friends and a core group of stalwart Warrior fans and former players alike. Even more so I am proud and honoured to be part of the “team” to bring today’s Waterloo Warriors back to glory.