The Winnipeg Blue Bombers will unveil a statue to commemorate the late Cal Murphy on Thursday, September 21, 2017 at Investors Group Field.
Murphy was born in Winnipeg in 1932, and he spent 30-plus seasons in the CFL, nine of which were with the Blue Bombers (1983-1996). Murphy won nine grey cups and will go down as one of the most successful coaches in franchise history. He went 86-51-1, good enough for second on the Blue Bombers' all-time coaches win list. He also was awarded Coach of the Year in back to back seasons when he took over the sideline duties for the Bombers in 1983.
“The Cal Murphy statue will honour one of the most iconic and successful figures in the great history of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and the Canadian Football League,” said Blue Bombers President & CEO, Wade Miller. “The statue is a tribute to a man who accomplished historic milestones while leading our organization. Thank you to our donors along with Blue Bomber Alumni for their support in raising funds for the statue.”
Murphy was inducted into both the Bombers Hall of Fame and Canadian Football League Hall of Fame in 2002, and 2004 respectively.
The Cal Murphy statue will be located outside Gate 3, and will be surrounded by a seating area for fans to take in the piece of art.
“Our entire family is honoured Cal is being recognized in this way,” said the Murphy family. “We wish to thank the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, past presidents, directors, and supporters for their recognition of his contributions. The Blue Bombers and the City of Winnipeg have special memories for our family and we look forward to being a part of the unveiling ceremony in September.”
