Celebrating Black History Month: Recognizing The Outstanding Contributions Of Some Of Rider Nation’s Finest
Words used with permission and thanks to the Saskatchewan African Canadian History Museum.
George Reed
Widely recognized as the greatest running back in the history of the Canadian Football League, George Reed spent 13 seasons (1963-75) with the Saskatchewan Roughriders, highlighted by being named the league’s outstanding player in 1965, leading the team to its first Grey Cup triumph in 1966, five rushing titles, 11 1,000-yard seasons, nine Canadian all-star team selections (10 Western). He held the CFL record for career rushing yardage for 33 years and his total of 134 rushing touchdowns remains unequalled.
While lauded for these efforts, Reed’s stature in Saskatchewan is most noteworthy as a spokesman and champion for charitable causes, particularly for those who are mentally and physically disabled and specifically for the assistance provided by the George Reed Foundation for the Handicapped.
Reed distinguished himself in the football community as the long-time president of the CFL Players Association, which under his direction, made enormous strides in achieving essential rights and fair working conditions for all its members.
The stretch of 10th Avenue near Mosaic Stadium was named George Reed Way. November 13, 2019.
His diverse contributions to the community were recognized in 1978 when he was made a Member of the Order of Canada. Born in Mississippi and raised in the state of Washington, he has worked throughout his life to contribute to his community, lending his time and efforts wherever he can to help the broadest range of society.
Don Narcisse
Don was a wide receiver for 13 years with the Roughriders. During that time he was rarely injured and constantly delivered strong on-field performances, Don shared and held numerous records. He achieved 1000+ receiving yards for 7 consecutive seasons from 1989-1995 including a career high 1419 yards in 1989. At the time of his retirement, he was 1st all-time in career receptions, 3rd in career receiving yards and tied for 1st with 8 1000+ yard seasons.
Don holds the professional football record for most consecutive games with a least one reception at 216. He is considered one of the greatest players in Roughriders history and one of the leagues greatest receivers.
Outside the white lines, Don became a popular and respected man due to his positive and warm nature towards fans, players and media. His community involvement was much appreciated throughout his career. His most well-known contribution was the “Catch For Kids” program on behalf of Kidsport Saskatchewan which began in 1998. The program evolved to include a charity Saskatchewan Roughrider player calendar, as well as charity bowling event went on to raise more than $100,000 for the charity
The Leader Post newspaper ranked Don as #7 on their list of 50 greatest Roughrider players.
Ventson Donelson
Ventson Donelson spent 10 seasons in the Green & White, playing in 115 games. He recorded 317 defensive tackles and 12 interceptions, including a career high, three, in the 1992 season.
Off the field, Donelson is the Executive Director and Owner of EPIC Coaching Solutions, which is an organization that is dedicated to providing life skills and motivational tools to assist individuals in overcoming life’s obstacles and to remain aligned with the real you. These tools are also beneficial in promoting a positive life balance in order to achieve your life goals and dreams.
Growing up in Detroit and overcoming many obstacles to achieve the dream of playing professional football, Ventson truly understands what it takes to beat the odds and to live and achieve a dream. These life tools have assisted and equipped him in many ways in his life. Ventson is dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of many and is committed to seeing these dreams become a reality.
View a comprehensive list of Black players who have “Played & Stayed” Here
