The Saskatchewan Roughriders have announced a historic addition to their Plaza of Honour. Roy Shivers, the first Black general manager in CFL history, will be inducted in 2024. This recognition celebrates Shivers’ groundbreaking leadership and lasting impact on professional football in Canada.
Breaking Barriers: Roy Shivers’ Pioneering Role in CFL Management
Roy Shivers made history in 1995 when he became the CFL’s first Black general manager with the Birmingham Barracudas. He then served as the Roughriders’ GM from 2000 to 2006. During his tenure, Shivers posted a regular season record of 52-64-1 and a postseason record of 3-4.
Shivers’ most significant contribution, however, was his commitment to diversity in football leadership. He made waves by hiring Danny Barrett, creating the first Black GM/Head Coach tandem in professional football. This move opened doors for future generations of Black leaders in the sport.
From the Projects to the Plaza: Roy Shivers’ Inspiring Journey
Shivers’ path to the CFL was far from easy. Born in segregated Arkansas, his family later moved to West Oakland’s projects. There, he grew up alongside future sports legends and civil rights activists. Despite facing discrimination, Shivers persevered and became a star running back at Utah State.
His experiences with racial barriers in college and the NFL fueled his determination to create change. Shivers’ eventual rise to a GM position allowed him to make decisions that would impact the sport’s future. He often said, “If I don’t do it, who’s going to do it?”
A Legacy of Inclusion: Shivers’ Impact on Canadian Football
Steve Mazurak, chair of the Plaza of Honour selection committee, praised Shivers’ contributions. “Roy Shivers made history when he hired Danny Barrett to become the first Black GM/Head Coach tandem in professional football,” Mazurak stated. This move challenged norms and paved the way for greater diversity in CFL leadership.
Shivers’ approach to recruitment also left a lasting mark. He had a knack for finding overlooked talent, often giving opportunities to players deemed “too slow” or “too small” by other teams. This strategy not only built competitive teams but also opened doors for many players.
Celebrating Trailblazers: The 2024 Plaza of Honour Induction Ceremony
Roy Shivers will be inducted alongside quarterback Darian Durant and fullback Steve Molnar. The ceremony will take place during halftime at Mosaic Stadium on October 12, 2024, when the Riders host the B.C. Lions.
This honor recognizes not just Shivers’ on-field success, but his role in making the CFL more inclusive. It serves as a reminder of the progress made in professional sports and the work still to be done. Shivers’ induction is a celebration of his vision, courage, and commitment to equality in football.
