A Dunedin, Florida native, and William and Mary Economics graduate, Michael “Pinball” Clemons moved to Canada in 1989 and has proudly called it home ever since. One of the most recognizable faces in the Canadian Football League (CFL), Clemons has the unique distinction of running for more yards than any player in professional football history. He also has the exclusive honor of being the first Black Head Coach to win the esteemed Grey Cup. Throughout his career, Clemons has won eight championships in various capacities as a player, coach, and executive. Currently, he continues this pursuit as the General Manager of the Toronto Argonauts Football Club. His illustrious resume has earned him a place in both the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame and the Canadian Football League Hall of Fame.

Off the field, Clemons is known for a personality that is as electric as his style of play, and a heart that is dedicated to community service. He is the most humbled to have been recognized numerous times for the way he prioritizes philanthropy, including being a two-time recipient of the CFL’s Man of the Year Award, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal for Community Service, the Meritorious Service Medal, and membership in the Order of Ontario. His charitable efforts matured in 2007, when he co-founded the Pinball Foundation. The foundation has since built more than 200 classrooms in developing countries, and currently focuses locally on providing educational and career opportunities to marginalized youth in the Greater Toronto Area.

Despite his many accomplishments, he considers his greatest acclaim to be his role as the proud husband of Diane, the father of his three daughters—Rachel, Raven, and Rylie—and a joyful grandfather.