My parents’ names were Charles Ealey Sr. and Earline Ealey. They were divorced when I was very small and I don’t ever remember living with my Dad. This created a very financially desperate situation, as my Mother had only a Grade 8 education. What helped me survive were three things; the love from my Mother who provided all that she could and encouraged me to get my education; the support of the North end community that encouraged, disciplined and mentored me, and then there was the sports in the community. Two major mentors from the community were Larry Hisle and Al Oliver. Larry later went on to play for the Minnesota Twins/Philidelphia Phillies/Milwaukee Brewers and also coached the Toronto Blue Jays. Al also went on to play Major League Baseball with Pittsburgh Pirates, Montreal Expos and Toronto Blue Jays. One of the top soprano singers in the world, Kathleen Battle, is also from this area. My community was rich with talent and it helped build the base of who I am.

While attending Notre Dame High School, I was coached by Ed Miller. He obviously became the driving force to my understanding of coaching, leadership, discipline and hard work. Through his direction, we won all of our games in high school. We became State Champs in my senior year. Because of this record, I received a scholarship to the University of Toledo, where I was privileged to play football. Our team went on to win 35 straight football games and we were honored with many achievements. I graduated from the University of Toledo in 1972 with a Bachelor degree in Business Economics.

My career in football continued in Canada when I was passed over in the NFL Draft. I chose to go to Canada as a quarterback rather than accepting another position in the NFL. I signed a contract to play with the Hamilton Tigercats. In my rookie year, we won the Grey Cup. I was voted MVP and 1972 Rookie of the Year.

At the end of 1972, I married my wife of 32 years, Sherri. I continued to play in the Canadian Football League for another 6 years.

After my football career, I worked 8 years as a Territory Manager for John Deere. In 1987 I joined Investors Group as a financial consultant and am presently Regional Director for Investors Group Mississauga.

I have three adult Children, Damon Ealey, Skye Bowen and Jael Ealey. I also have 3 grandsons; Dante and Justice Bowen, and Asher Ealey. I have been blessed by God with many that have loved, coached, disciplined and instructed me. I can be thankful for all those lives that have touched mine in such a wonderful way.

Thanks.

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