WATERLOO, Ont. – On Thursday May 4, the Wilfrid Laurier Department of Athletics and Recreation hosted the 23rd annual Legends of Laurier Football Gala, presented by Izzio Financial & Sun Life Financial and Waterloo Brewing at Lazaridis Hall in support of the Golden Hawks football program.

Emcee Mike Hogan led the evening's celebration, which included a a fireside chat with five Laurier football alumni that were key contributors to Toronto's 2022 Grey Cup-winning team, including Kurleigh Gittens Jr., Robbie Smith, Sam Acheampong, Braydon Noll, and Brandon Calver. 

The evening was highlighted by the fourth class of "Legends of Laurier Football" class of inductees, honouring one Golden Hawk from each decade of the program's history: John Kruspe (1960 -1969), John Glassford (1970-1979), Ken Evraire (1980 - 1989), Stefan Ptaszek (1990 - 1999), Yannick Carter (2000 -2009), Shamawd Chambers (2010 - 2019), and former head coach Rick Zmich - who was a lifetime achievement inductee.

The Golden Hawks Football Dinner is a fundraising initiative of the Laurier Golden Hawk football program, directed towards enhancements and support, including equipment, academic assistance, coaching support and facilities.

Laurier opens its season on Saturday August 26 in Kingston against the Queen's Gaels at Richardson Stadium.

The Golden Hawks' home opener is scheduled for the following week, Sunday September 3, against the Carleton Ravens. Kick-off is set for 1pm at University Stadium.

Season ticket packages are available for purchase online now!