Argonauts rookie offensive lineman Pyle in familiar setting at University of Guelph
Ethan Pyle is starting his pro football career in familiar surroundings.
The Canadian offensive lineman opened the Toronto Argonauts' rookie camp Wednesday at Guelph University's Alumni Stadium. That's where the six-foot-two, 280-pound Pyle played collegiately before being selected by Toronto in the seventh round, 64th overall, in the 2025 CFL draft.
Pyle is someone others are already gravitating to.
'I've had a few people come up to me and ask me how to get to the weight room,' Pyle said with a chuckle. 'A few guys even said, 'Oh, I didn't know Guelph had this nice of a facility.
'I couldn't be happier to be here at Guelph right now. It's really nice.'
Pyle, of Milton, Ont., played at Guelph from 2020-2024 and was a '24 second-team Ontario University Athletics all-star. But it hasn't taken Pyle long to realize he's playing at a much different level now.
'Everything is a lot faster,' he said. 'Different teams use different line calls and stuff like that.
'But at the end of the day if you understand the scheme, get to your spots and make your blocks, it will all sort itself out.'
On Wednesday, the CFL named the participants in its annual quarterback internship. Since 2010, the program has allowed Canadian college quarterbacks to practise with clubs as well as attend positional and team meetings.
The participants include: Waterloo's Nick Orr (Toronto); McGill's Eloa Latendresse-Régimbald (Montreal Alouettes); Alex Vreeken of Queen's (Ottawa Redblacks); Guelph's Tristan Aboud (Hamilton Tiger-Cats); Manitoba's Cole Anseeuw (Winnipeg Blue Bombers); Saskatchewan's Anton Amundrud (Saskatchewan Roughriders); Huskies player Cohen Wright (Calgary Stampeders); Alberta's Eli Hetlinger (Edmonton Elks); and UBC's Alex La Vecchia (B.C. Lions).
For Toronto head coach Ryan Dinwiddie, rookie camp begins the preparation for a new season. The '24 campaign was a successful one for the Argos, who defeated Winnipeg 41-24 to capture their second CFL title in three campaigns.
Toronto edged Winnipeg 24-23 in 2022.
Dinwiddie said two priorities of rookie camp are introducing young players to a professional environment and what the Argos' expectations are. For Americans, it's also exposing them to the nuances of Canadian football while for U Sports graduates like Pyle, it's presenting them with an understanding of the jump between university football and the CFL.
As important, though, is also giving rookies an idea of what lies ahead when veterans report for the start of training camp Sunday.
'Really, we're trying to get in as much work as we can, add to that what we're going to do the first three days (of training camp) so they're familiar with that when it comes,' Dinwiddie said. 'We have a heavy load and volume as far as the different plays … but we're only running 20 reps on the field.
'So it's getting them into the meeting rooms and making sure we take care of their bodies so when the vets come we're not wearing them down.'
Many rookies have had their playbooks for a while but Pyle only got his this week.
'The past two nights I've been here right after meetings it's up to the dorm and reading the playbook,' he said. 'It (training camp) is something to look forward to but it's also something to be nervous about.
'Once the vets come in, it's all going to change because they're comfortable in the scheme and the league and so it will definitely be a bigger jump. But I feel with rookie camp and getting here early and doing stuff has really been helpful to kind of calm the nerves down.'
During rookie camp, Pyle hopes to show the Argos' brass his football intelligence and ability to play fast. But he also acknowledges there are parts of his game that he must work on.
'I like to think I'm pretty quick laterally,' he said. 'But my explosiveness off the ball and being able to move people around are things I need to improve upon the most.'
Dinwiddie said while Pyle might be green professionally, he'll have a shot at cracking Toronto's lineup.
'Will he make our roster Year 1? Who knows,' Dinwiddie said. 'But he's going to get every opportunity to do it.
'He has some things he might struggle with but at the same time there's a lot of positive things he did. That's why we pulled the trigger.'
This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 7, 2025.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
New York Times
32 minutes ago
- New York Times
No, the Maple Leafs should not (and cannot) run it back: Mirtle mailbag
A couple weeks ago, we put out the call for mailbag questions from Maple Leafs fans after another disappointing playoff exit for Toronto. Subscribers didn't disappoint in contributing nearly 350 for us to filter through, something I plan on doing between now and free agency. We'll start with these two, which hit on a theme I've heard a lot since the Leafs were eliminated on May 18. Advertisement From Curtis P.: 'The core of the Leafs hasn't gotten it done yet, but every season is a new opportunity — just like rolling dice, past outcomes don't dictate future results. This team is different; they've grown, adapted, and learned. The right move isn't to dismantle everything, but to plug that second-line centre hole and tweak the depth. If the price is right, why not run it back with a team that's already shown it can compete at the highest level? The Atlantic Division is the toughest in the league, and if we can get through that, the sky's the limit. A few adjustments could be the key to finally breaking through.' From Danny A.: 'Are we holding the Leafs to different standards than other teams? Why isn't 'perennially in the mix in a league where anyone in the playoffs had as good a chance as any other' at least considered a mild success? Mitch Marner seems as good as gone, but it feels to me like re-signing him and keeping the core as a bridge to the rising cap (which was the original plan that a frozen cap killed) would be as good a plan as any.' Even though I've been around this team and fan base for a long, long time, I've been surprised how many of you want the status quo. Even after all of the losing. Even after the way they were eliminated in the second round this time around. If what happened this year — an ugly Game 7 loss in the second round against a terrific opponent — was happening for the first, or second, or even third or fourth time, then you could rationally argue to run things back. Leafs management did just that for years, after some really tough outcomes in the playoffs in the six seasons between 2019 and 2024. (I'm counting 2017 and 2018 as a young team going through growing pains and losing to more experienced opponents.) But as we sit here, three weeks out from free agency in 2025, we know that's not what has happened. The loss to the Panthers wasn't the second or third time something like this has occurred. It's not a new phenomenon for a talented Leafs core to no-show in two of the biggest games of the year. It has happened again and again and again in remarkably similar fashion. Advertisement The Leafs' core isn't young anymore. They aren't learning lessons. William Nylander is 29. Mitch Marner turned 28 during the playoffs, and Auston Matthews will join him there in September. Key veterans like Morgan Rielly and John Tavares are on the back nine of their careers at 31 and 34. Can we chalk up the implosions in Games 5 and 7 to bad luck that can be overcome with another roll of the dice? Are we sure these aren't loaded dice, set to land on snake eyes more often than not? Is next season a new opportunity if you attempt the same thing again, for an eighth consecutive season, with those five players making up the majority of your star power and cap space? And how can you be sure that's the right course of action when it hasn't been so many times before? We aren't holding the Leafs to a different standard than other teams. What they've done in running it back for so many years is unlike anything an unsuccessful franchise in pro sports has done. It's hard to find a good comparison for an organization keeping that much of its core together for that long with this little to show for it. (The closest comp would likely be the 2018 Washington Capitals who won the Stanley Cup after years of failed attempts, but even then, it was really only Alex Ovechkin, Nick Backstrom and defenceman John Carlson who were together for seven-plus seasons before winning, which would be akin to keeping Auston Matthews, William Nylander and Morgan Rielly — not all five members of the Leafs' core. The Mike Greens, Alexander Semins and Brooks Laichs weren't kept in Washington through that many years of postseason disappointment.) Most management groups in this situation would have pulled the plug on this configuration and tried to adapt three or four years ago. Certainly by 2023, when they still had an out to make major moves. Advertisement As for if being 'perennially in the mix' is considered a mild success, sure, we can call it that. These Leafs are a mild success! Nine consecutive years in the playoffs in the Matthews era, something no other NHL team has done. Tenth in playoff games played — and 11th in wins — since drafting him first overall. Two trips out of the first round and none past the second. But no one is arguing that the Leafs have been an unmitigated disaster the way they were previously. They're arguing that mild success isn't good enough, not when the goal is to win the Stanley Cup. They're arguing about what the best path forward is to be more than a mild success. How do they win it all? What do they need to get over the top, before the inevitable rebuild comes 'round again? Maybe you believe that's possible with this group. But what we're seeing in these big games is repeated evidence that something is wrong, and that gets reinforced when I talk to people behind the scenes. At this point, they very much agree they need a rethink. The GM isn't coming out after the postseason and saying his team needs to change 'some DNA' for show. This core has been kept together so long that it's become stale and dysfunctional, on and off the ice. They've been kept together so long that they don't even believe in themselves anymore. Think about it: If Marner truly believed they were right there, just about to break through, and there was a good chance of winning the Stanley Cup in his hometown with the Leafs, why wouldn't he have been willing to negotiate throughout the year for an eight-year deal worth massive money? Why did he seem so withdrawn and noncommittal? To me this goes beyond negotiating strategies and a players' camp trying to push for the maximum dollar figure on July 1. It's about something being fundamentally off, for Marner and for this organization. The strange thing is the player seemed to recognize it before management did, which puts the Leafs in a real bind. It appears almost certain at this point that they'll lose one of the best players in the NHL for very little in return, which is why some fans are getting cold feet about breaking up the core. Even if you believe this group needs change, these are hardly ideal circumstances under which to do it. Advertisement However, the next steps in Toronto shouldn't be the mass destruction of the roster. For one, that's not even going to be possible, not with free agency coming fast and so much of this group under contract, with no-movement and no-trade clauses. What GM Brad Treliving and his staff need to do instead is to try to identify how they can change the cast around the core members who stay in such a way that it resets the environment and allows them to be better in critical situations. Watch those playoff failures and analyze the team's shortcomings — not just with the core, but at every position, up and down the lineup. There are a lot of different ways the Leafs need to be better, but realistically, only some of them can be addressed this offseason. Assuming Marner is leaving, the change has to be focused on building a more well-rounded and less top-heavy roster, one that gets contributions down the lineup the way Florida has this postseason. One that can control play better and produce more offence when games get tight in the playoffs. That is going to be challenging with the Leafs' lack of trade assets, a weak free agent class, and the number of quality players Toronto needs to add, but challenging does not equal impossible. The best front offices in the league have made transformations like this in recent years — swapping out core players, making bold trades and underrated signings — and been better for it on the other side. The Panthers, for example, had terrific regular season success — winning the Presidents' Trophy in 2022 — but were swept in the second round and decided they needed to make major changes. Four of the eight biggest-minute players on that roster were gone the next offseason. They've continued to adapt and evolve over the last few years, adding key core pieces through trades and free agency, including Seth Jones, Brad Marchand, Matthew Tkachuk and Niko Mikkola. That's not to say the Leafs haven't changed. The blue line, especially, has undergone a dramatic makeover in a similar time frame, with defensive defenders Chris Tanev and Jake McCabe replacing T.J. Brodie and Jake Muzzin. But you'd be hard-pressed to call Toronto's moves a successful re-envisioning, given how similar (and how small) they look when up against a championship-level opponent in a playoff series. It's time to try something new, to cut deeper and ask the tough questions about why things haven't worked. Advertisement In an ideal world, the Leafs would have properly identified the need for this level of change before Marner was set to walk for nothing. We're going to be litigating the fallout of that for years to come, but that doesn't change the fact that trying the same thing again next season should have been out of the question either way. The only positive out of Marner's decision is it finally removes the 'run it back' option from the equation. It gives the Leafs a chance to reimagine what that $11 million in cap space can do for them in the playoffs if deployed differently, in support of the players who remain. And to acknowledge that mild success isn't good enough after nearly a decade of trying. (Top photo of Brad Treliving: Steve Russell / Toronto Star via Getty Images)
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
Rocky Health and the Toronto Argonauts Team Up to Tackle Stigma Around Men's Health
The partnership marks Rocky Health's third collaboration with a national sports organization, reinforcing its growing influence in the sports industry and its commitment to supporting men's health TORONTO, June 11, 2025 /CNW/ - Today, Rocky Health, Canada's modern digital men's health and wellness platform, is thrilled to announce a new multi-year partnership with the Toronto Argonauts, bringing the conversation around men's health to centre field. In partnership with the most legendary franchise in Canadian football, Rocky Health is showcasing its commitment to redefining how men take ownership of their health. To connect with Canadian men and challenge outdated health stigmas, Rocky Health is showing up where they are, within major sports leagues and at the heart of the game. This latest announcement builds on a series of recent partnerships with leading Canadian sports organizations, as Rocky Health continues to strengthen its presence across the sports industry and meet men where they already are. "At Rocky Health, we're committed to partnering with organizations with like-minded values, especially when it comes to prioritizing health and the importance of showing up for the people who matter most. We believe taking care of your health means taking care of those around you too," says Aba Anton, Co-Founder & CEO of Rocky Health. "Our partnership with the Toronto Argonauts is about using the power of sport to meet men where they are and redefine what strength truly means, not just in physical performance, but in showing up for yourself and those around you. It's about being proactive, having the courage to talk about what matters, and recognizing the role that family, teammates, and friends play in supporting one another on and off the field." Rocky Health will be front and centre all season long, starting with the jersey patch worn by the defending Grey Cup champions. The partnership includes a goal post wrap, digital signage throughout the grandstands, virtual field placements, and displays in and around BMO Field. On game days, Rocky Health will also be featured on the Argos' social media channels, with integration of organic team content. Fans on social media can enter to win signed jerseys and premium tickets via Rocky Health's channels. "This exciting new partnership brings together a progressive, young company with one of the country's oldest and most successful sports traditions, working to bring attention to a priority for us all, men's health," says Keith Pelley, President & CEO, Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment. "We look forward to the impact of this partnership with Rocky Health being felt with the team's fans and in the community for years to come." Through this partnership, Rocky Health is tackling the everyday barriers that often prevent men from seeking care, from long wait times and disconnected services to the outdated belief that asking for help is a sign of weakness. The Rocky Health platform brings clinical care, pharmacy support, and wellness tools together in one seamless digital experience–designed to meet men where they are, no clinic or pharmacy waiting rooms required. The partnership has been met with enthusiasm by both organizations, highlighting a shared commitment to driving meaningful change in the conversation around men's health. "The Toronto Argonauts are proud to partner with Rocky Health on a mission that goes far beyond the field," says Argos President, Michael 'Pinball' Clemens. "Our team is built on brotherhood, resilience, and showing up for one another, which are all values that align with Rocky Health's vision for better men's health. Together, we're encouraging our fans–fathers, sons, brothers, and teammates–to take that crucial first step toward care, conversation, and lasting change." As the Official Men's Health Provider of the Toronto Argonauts and the team's jersey patch partner, Rocky Health is proud to be a key partner of the team, bringing modern, stigma-free care to fans across the country. With on-field visibility at this season's home opener on June 14th and activations planned throughout the year, Rocky Health and the Toronto Argonauts unite in their commitment to champion men's health, whether in the stands, in the locker room, or watching the game at home. About Rocky HealthRocky Health was founded in Toronto by three childhood friends. After finding success in their healthcare fields, and personally experiencing gaps in the healthcare system, they were inspired to launch Rocky Health in 2021. The founding team comprises Chief Medical Officer, Dr. George Mankaryous, M.D. CCFP, Chief Pharmaceutical Officer, Mina Rizk, MPharm and Chief Executive Officer, Aba Anton, MPharm. Rocky Health owns its medical clinic, which employs a full-time staff of healthcare professionals, and its OCP-accredited pharmacy, which dispenses and ships medication to provide a seamless user experience. Mental health, sexual health, weight loss, hair loss and smoking cessation services are currently available in Ontario, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Nunavut, New Brunswick, Quebec and Manitoba. SOURCE Rocky Health View original content to download multimedia: Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
San Francisco Chronicle
3 hours ago
- San Francisco Chronicle
What to know about the 2026 World Cup one year out
The World Cup kicks off one year from now and will be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. The 23rd edition of soccer's most prestigious tournament, which has been running since 1930, will be the biggest yet with 48 teams taking part. Here's what to know about the 2026 FIFA World Cup. When is the 2026 World Cup The tournament will be played through June and July. It kicks off at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City on June 11, with the final held July 19 at MetLife Stadium, which will be referred to as the New York New Jersey Stadium during FIFA's tournament. How to get tickets for the 2026 World Cup Fans can register their interest in tickets through FIFA. Who will play in the 2026 World Cup So far, more than a dozen countries have booked their place in the 48-team tournament, including co-hosts the United States, Canada and Mexico, as well as defending champion Argentina. Japan, Iran, Jordan, Uzbekistan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil and Ecuador are also through. Sixteen teams will qualify from Europe — more than any other region. Africa will have nine teams and Asia eight, with both also getting a place in the playoffs. South America will have six teams qualifying directly and a playoff place. North and Central America and the Caribbean will also have six direct qualifiers and two playoff places. Oceania will only have one direct qualifier and a playoff place. Which cities will be hosting the 2026 World Cup The United States will host games in Arlington, Texas; Atlanta; East Rutherford, New Jersey; Foxborough, Massachusetts; Houston; Inglewood, California; Kansas City, Missouri; Miami Gardens, Florida; Philadelphia, Seattle; and San Jose, California. Two Canadian cities will have World Cup games: Toronto and Vancouver, British Columbia. In Mexico, games will be played in Guadalajara, Monterrey and Mexico City. What is the format of the 2026 World Cup The tournament will follow the same format as in recent years, just with a bigger field. There will be 12 groups of four teams. The teams in each group play each other and the top two will advance to a knockout stage. The eight best third-place teams will also advance. The knockouts will be played from the round of 32 to the final. Who won the last World Cup? The previous World Cup was held in 2022 at Qatar, where Argentina defeated France in a penalty shootout in the final. Which country has won the most World Cup titles? Brazil holds that record, having won the tournament five times: 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994 and 2002. Germany and Italy have each won four titles. Argentina has three. ___
