“If somebody’s offering, I’m here” – Former star Mike Morreale open to joining CFL administration

Former CFL receiver and experienced sports executive Mike Morreale said he would welcome the opportunity to work in the league office if offered the chance.

“I would say without a doubt. The CFL is what got me to where I am today, and I owe everything to it. I would commit myself to whatever it took to ensure the CFL is around forever,” Morreale said. “If the opportunity presented itself, ideally — if somebody’s offering, I’m here. You know where to find me. I love the game, and I know I could contribute in some way, but it would have to be the right situation when it appears.”

Morreale brings extensive experience in sports administration. After retiring from the CFL, he served as director of marketing for the Canadian Football League Players’ Association from 2007 to 2012 before being elected CFLPA president from 2012 to 2014.

In 2017, Morreale co-founded the Canadian Elite Basketball League and served as its commissioner, overseeing the league’s growth into Canada’s top domestic basketball competition. Under his leadership, the CEBL secured media deals with TSN, Next Level Sports (U.S.), Fox Sports Australia, TapGo (Philippines), SingTel (Singapore), and Astro (Malaysia). He stepped down in October 2025.

Morreale’s success in the CEBL led to his name being mentioned as a potential replacement for Randy Ambrosie as CFL commissioner. That role eventually went to former TSN executive Stewart Johnston, a choice Morreale supports. “I think they’re led well. Stew Johnston was an excellent choice for many reasons. Having experienced so many parts of domestic sport, I understand that decisions are made for reasons we may not fully see. Change is sometimes inevitable, and the commissioner, board, and ownership group must ensure the game thrives for as long as possible,” he said.

On the field, Morreale spent 12 CFL seasons with the Toronto Argonauts and Hamilton Tiger-Cats, recording 509 catches for 6,649 yards and 24 touchdowns. He won the league’s Most Outstanding Canadian award in 1998 and two Grey Cups.

Despite his deep roots in Canadian football, Morreale is not a traditionalist when it comes to the CFL’s planned structural changes. He sees potential benefits in the extended play clock, which could allow broadcasts to better emulate the NFL and give fans more storytelling opportunities. “Look at the replays, the commentary, the time between plays — 35 seconds might allow more depth. The CFL has always been fast and wide open, and I like the idea of keeping that pace in the final three minutes while still giving space for storytelling,” he said.

Morreale acknowledged that while he wasn’t part of the league’s decision-making process, he understands why changes are made. One day, he hopes to be in those meetings, giving back to the league that launched his career. In the meantime, he remains a passionate supporter of Canadian sports.