Former CFL players have been given a deadline to join an ongoing arbitration case, as reported by the Ottawa Sun. The case involves a dispute over the league’s handling of concussions and head injuries.
The deadline, set for August 20th, was issued by the Ontario Superior Court of Justice. It applies to all former players who have not yet joined the lawsuit, which was initially filed in 2015.
The lawsuit alleges that the CFL failed to protect its players from the long-term effects of concussions and head injuries. It also claims that the league did not properly inform players of the risks associated with these injuries.
The case has been ongoing for several years, with the CFL denying any wrongdoing. However, the league did agree to participate in a mediation process in 2018, which ultimately failed to reach a resolution.
Now, with the deadline looming, former players who wish to join the lawsuit must do so by submitting a registration form and a $50 fee. Failure to meet the deadline could result in their exclusion from the case.
According to the lawyer representing the players, the deadline is necessary in order to move the case forward and reach a resolution. He also stated that the case has already received a significant amount of interest from former players.
The CFL has yet to comment on the deadline or the ongoing case. However, the league has previously stated that player safety is a top priority and that it has taken steps to improve concussion protocols and educate players on the risks of head injuries.
This deadline serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle between former players and the CFL over the handling of concussions and head injuries. As the case continues to unfold, it remains to be seen what the outcome will be and what impact it will have on the league and its players.