Edmonton hosts the 106th edition of the CFL’s Grey Cup played at Commonwealth Stadium that has the Calgary Stampeders play the Ottawa RedBlacks.

Living in the lower mainland we recently watched a “tearful” Wally Buono (68) officially announce his retirement from the game so dear to him for the past few decades.

Paying tribute by anyone’s piers and especially this year is not just due to his retirement, but is for his life-long recognition, dedication and leadership to the game he loves so much.

He (Wally) is awarded the CFL’s Hugh Campbell Distinguished Leadership Award, which is presented each year to an individual who demonstrates leadership and has made a significant contribution to the CFL.

Wally steps down after an exceptional 46 year career as both player, General Manager, league Governor and the leagues winningest coach.

He has won two Grey Cups, while attending five (5) as a player and five (5) Grey Cups through nine (9) appearances as Head Coach with an overall coaching regular season record is 282-165-3.

He was also inducted in the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in  2014 as well as a member of Order of Canada in 2015.

League Commissioner Randy Ambrosie mentioned at the CFL Awards audience “What matters most in a person’s life is the impact you have on others and this is a person who has touched thousands and thousands of lives and made each of them better.”

He also mentioned “everyone in the league wishes his wife Sande, Daughters Amy, Dana and Christie, Son Michael and their entire family all the best as he embarks on a full and happy life after football.”

Wally has been a key figure in the area for several years and is one of the more personable individuals you would ever meet and has time for everyone.

Sportswave wishes him all the best on his retirement, but you just know “HE’LL BE BACK”!!