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The underdog Toronto Argonauts were doused in champagne, tickled by flying confetti and bowled over by tremendous applause from jubilant fans at Maple Leaf Square as they celebrated their 41-24 victory over the Winnipeg Blue Bombers at the 111th Grey Cup last Sunday.
Fans and players alike celebrated Nov. 19 the team’s first Grey Cup win since 2022, taking their place as CFL champions once again. It was Argos' 19th cup in the cup's 111-year history.
Quarterback Nick Arbuckle, named the Most Valuable Player of the championship game, expressed his pride in the team's journey.
"It feels amazing," he said. "So many people sacrificed so much to get here. Everyone has a story, and it’s incredible to see how far we've come. From players like Priest (Robert Priester), who started the season on the couch and ended up scoring an interception touchdown in the Grey Cup, this victory means a lot to every one of us."
The Argos faced their fair share of challenges during the season, but they persevered, with a focus on growth and unity.
"We’ve really embraced adversity as an opportunity to learn and grow," General Manager Michael "Pinball" Clemons said. "The character of these players shone through at every turn. They chose to come together, making each other better and stronger."
Head coach Ryan Dinwiddie highlighted the team’s togetherness as a key factor in their success.
"The players appreciate each other deeply," he said. "That respect and enjoyment of each other’s company led to their hard work paying off on game day."
The victory was celebrated not just by the team but also by devoted fans.
Argos fan Chris Taylor believes the win could help boost the CFL’s future in Toronto.
"With Rogers owning MLSE now, winning the championship right off the bat is a great sign for the future of the CFL here," Taylor said.
For others like Rebecca Loucks, the victory was a deeply personal achievement.
"It’s been a long time coming," Loucks said while holding a good luck charm, a lanyard with the Argos' logo she wore for every game this season. "It’s more than just a win. It’s something for all of us to celebrate after a tough few years. It brings joy to the city and unites everyone."
The event was full of pride and celebration, with fans like Sherril Best recounting their emotional reactions to the win. "I jumped, I cheered, I hugged my family," she said. "This win shows that the Argos are a reliable, talented team. We outplayed the Bombers in every way."
The victory also highlights the growing and needed support for the Argonauts in Toronto. "Football fans in Ontario need to support their local team," Best added. "We have a winning team, and it’s time to show up for them."
For some fans, the win marks the beginning of a new era of success for the Argos. Leland Stewart, who was watching his first season as an Argos fan, was overjoyed by the victory.
"It means a lot," Stewart said. "I hope this is just the beginning of many more wins."
