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Redblacks’ stamps include Russ Jackson, the new stadium and the logo: the past and the future

andrew bucholtz

2012 saw Canada Post come out with nine CFL stamps (one for each team, plus a 100th Grey Cup one) celebrating the league's past, present and future, and now they've done it again for the league's newest team, the Ottawa Redblacks. The Redblacks have already played their first preseason game, and anticipation is building for their July 18 home opener; this stamp release marks another moment in their inclusion in the CFL, and like the other stamps from 2012, it includes both a player and a famous moment. This time around, though, it's the player who represents the historic side; the first stamp (at right) shows Ottawa Rough Riders legend Russ Jackson, a three-time Grey Cup champion and the last Canadian quarterback to really star in the CFL, but it puts him against a background of Ottawa's new TD Place stadium. The second stamp features the Redblacks' buzzsaw logo. Here are some quotes from Canada Post's release on why these stamps matter:

“With over 100 years of history, the CFL has a storied past and reflects the culture, enthusiasm and spirit of Canadians,” says the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Transport and responsible for Canada Post. “These stamps build a bridge between Ottawa’s football history and future.”

“We are proud to play a part in Ottawa’s return to the CFL and complete the special issues by representing all nine cities and teams,” says Deepak Chopra, President and CEO, Canada Post. “The determination and dedication of the Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group and their fans bodes well for them to create their own legacy.”

“The return of CFL football to our nation’s capital is an historic moment for our league,” said CFL Commissioner Mark Cohon. “Capturing its significance through commemorative stamps is an honour and another indication that the dream of returning CFL football to Ottawa is a reality. Like millions of Canadians from coast to coast, we can’t wait to see the REDBLACKS take the field in front of their home crowd for the very first time on July 18.”

‘It’s a tremendous honour for the REDBLACKS and Ottawa CFL fans to be recognized with these stamps,’ said Roger Greenberg, Chairman of the REDBLACKS parent company, the Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group. ‘To see a picture of Russ Jackson in his prime with our new stadium in the background is a testament to our team’s storied past and promising future. It’s a wonderful tribute.’

The decision to go with Jackson on this one is a great call, and it illustrates one thing this Redblacks' team has done very right; staying in touch with their history. While they weren't able to bring back the Rough Riders nickname thanks to opposition from Saskatchewan, the team name and colours recall the Rough Riders era, and franchise legends like Jackson and Tony Gabriel (who were both on hand to officially unveil the new name and logo in June 2013) have been prominently included in many of the team's events. The Redblacks aren't solely living in the past, as there's plenty to be excited about with the current franchise, but it's smart of them to connect with the CFL's long history in Ottawa, and this stamp design reflects that. It also shows the team's bright future with the inclusion of the new stadium. It's cool to see the Redblacks officially included in the CFL's stamp collection, and it's one more sign that the CFL's newest team is becoming a full member of the league.

These stamps can be picked up at Canada Post locations, or online (with an official First Day Cover) at canadapost.ca/REDBLACKS.