First-ever CFL team report cards covered eight separate survey categories

The CFL Players' Association unveiled its first team report cards Tuesday. Players completed a survey that included eight different categories. Some facts regarding the designations:

— Football operations. Players were asked about their relationships with their head coach, coaching and video staff, team activity scheduling and their team's adherence to collective-bargaining agreement provisions, including those relating to padded practices and practice times.

— Equipment. Players were asked if they were required to pay for any necessary football equipment, including gloves, mouthguards and cleats. They were also asked if they have access to appropriate helmet choices and about the condition of issued equipment and the relative knowledge, helpfulness and availability of equipment staff.

— Management/administration. Players were queried on whether they've been requested to renegotiate existing contracts for less total compensation, if CFLPA all-star bonuses were offered, the availability of financial department personnel, if paid appearances and/or employment opportunities outside of football were offered, the quality of seats provided for home-game tickets and comfort addressing concerns with management.

— Training and medical staff. The survey inquired whether clubs had adequate levels of medical staff, if therapy was offered at adequate times in and out of season, the perceived quality of care and availability of massage and chiropractic therapy, the quality of club workout facilities in addition to the availability/expertise of strength-and-conditioning coaches.

— Treatment of families. Did clubs offer services and support for wives and children, including assistance in sourcing housing, childcare, open-work permits for Americans? Also, were medical and mental health services were available and if family gameday facilities were provided?

— Nutrition and diet. What meals are provided by the club and what's the quality of them? Were players charged for the meals? Is a club dietitian available and what's the quality, quantity, and adequacy of nutritional supplements provided?

— Team travel. Players were asked about the quality of their club's travel arrangements and if the timing of flights allowed for adequate post-game rest and recovery. Was there reimbursements for any travel-related expenses and, if applicable, was there travel during the practice week to off-site facilities?

—Training camp. The survey wanted to know about the quality of player housing during camp. Did they have to share a room? What was the quality of meals provided during camp and did the club follow the CBA's practice time and padded practice requirements?

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 17, 2024.

The Canadian Press