JASON COLERO
Toronto Argonauts Manager, Community Relations
Jason Colero started as a water boy and now, 25 years later, he’s the heart and soul of Argos’ community outreach programs. The friendly and energetic Manager of Community Relations now educates youth through a myriad of programs he leads throughout the GTA.
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In my 25 years with the Argonauts the ownership has changed six times and this year marks lucky number seven.
From the beginning of my career with the Argonauts, I can still recall the welcome parties on Carlingview at the O’Keefe Breweries. I even remember the legendary “Carlsbird” roaming the sidelines and even a fuzzy Argo Bounce mascot. Also, the first chat I ever had with John Candy at the pre-game party at the Horseshoe tavern; I remember thinking at that point that I knew his passion for the game. Having a passion for the game is what makes these ownerships successful, which brings me closer to the modern era.
In 2003, I remember a very sad day for me, some of my colleagues and many Argos fans. One of my worst and saddest days as an Argo was the day when we were under receivership and, in a very business-like and cold way, we were told to go home as we were all dismissed from our employment with the Argos. My saving grace was the fact that I was running the Huddle-Up Bullying Prevention program and, at the time, having to eat up most of the expenses just to keep it going. Then the passion of Howard and David saved the Boatmen and kept my dream alive.
They were two owners that were not only committed to what we did on the field but more so what we did off the field. Who can ever forget that they were involved in the creation of our charitable arm, The Argos Foundation. Their passion was truly contagious.
Now we have David Braley who I have already seen show a genuine concern for the community that the team plays in. One just has to look at the many initiatives the B.C. Lions have already started to realize that Mr. Braley understands the passion that translates from the CFL teams to their communities.
It was 12 years ago in June that our current president, Bob Nicholson, believed that I could mould my passion from the field to one in the front office as a Community Relations Manager. I thank him for that and I personally am excited to continue to apply my passion for – hopefully -another 25 years. You can e-mail me at jcolero@argonauts.ca.
Until next time, make your passion your life,
– Jason