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Toronto Argonauts Quarterback Chad Kelly Absent from Team Activities
Chad Kelly, the starting quarterback for the Toronto Argonauts, is currently not participating in team activities. This announcement was made by the Argonauts as they kicked off their training camp at the University of Guelph. It has been confirmed by Sportsnet that Kelly is not present at the team’s facility.
Implications of Kelly’s Absence
With Kelly’s absence, sophomores Cameron Dukes and Bryan Scott are expected to compete for the starting quarterback position. Last season, both Dukes and Scott had limited playing time, as Kelly started 16 regular-season games. Dukes had the opportunity to start in two games while Kelly was on the field.
Kelly’s absence from team activities comes after he was suspended by the CFL for violating its gender-based violence policy. The league announced that Kelly would have to miss at least nine regular-season games, as well as the pre-season, as a result of an independent investigation into allegations of sexual harassment made by a former strength-and-conditioning coach against Kelly and the Argonauts.
Team Response and Next Steps
Despite his suspension, Kelly was seen on the field at the Argonauts’ rookie camp at the University of Guelph. Toronto GM Mike (Pinball) Clemons mentioned that Kelly’s presence was in accordance with the CFL’s discipline. While Kelly was present, he did not participate in any on-field activities.
The CFL’s investigation stemmed from claims of harassment against Kelly, with allegations of unwanted advances and threatening behavior. The former coach who filed the complaint stated that the Argonauts did not take appropriate action when made aware of Kelly’s conduct.
In response to the investigation and subsequent discipline, Clemons expressed the importance of creating a healthy and positive workplace environment within the organization. He emphasized the need for continual learning and growth to prevent similar situations from occurring in the future.
As Kelly’s camp considers its options, there is a possibility of appealing the suspension and undergoing an arbitration hearing. The CFL has outlined specific requirements for Kelly to fulfill, including assessments by independent experts and counseling sessions with gender-based violence experts, before considering his reinstatement.
If Kelly complies with all conditions, there is a potential for him to return to the field for the Argonauts’ home game against Saskatchewan on August 22. However, Clemons stated that the focus remains on the work that needs to be done to address the issues at hand.
As the situation unfolds, the Toronto Argonauts are navigating the challenges posed by Kelly’s absence and striving to uphold a culture of respect and equality within the organization.
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