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A high-ranking employee of the CFL is “extremely disappointed” at the Toronto Argonauts handling of star QB Chad Kelly’s suspension.
Kristina Costabile, the league’s senior manager of web and digital content, took to X on Thursday to share her displeasure at seeing Kelly take the field for the Argos’ rookie camp — days after he was suspended following a league investigation into sexual harassment claims made by a former coach.
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“I know many of you have asked me about the Chad Kelly situation and have noticed that I haven’t said anything about the matter on this platform,” she began in a screenshot of a note posted on X.
“I first want to let you know that behind closed doors, I have been anything but silent. Please don’t think I have been sitting on the sidelines ignoring what is going on.
“l love this league so much and I sincerely appreciate how much the safety of the women in it is taken seriously.
“I’m extremely disappointed to see that Chad attended Toronto’s rookie camp this week, while he has been suspended from playing and has not yet completed the league-mandated counseling and assessments.
“As it has been for many of you, this has been challenging for me personally and professionally to process. I hope you know that I will continue to use my voice wherever possible when it comes to safe and inclusive work environments in our league.”
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On Tuesday, commissioner Randy Ambrosie suspended Kelly for at least half the 2024 season — and potentially longer if Kelly doesn’t satisfactorily complete mandatory counselling and assessments by an independent expert.
Ambrosie issued a statement saying that investigation found Kelly “unequivocally violated” the league’s gender-based violence policy.
“Players are the ambassadors of our great game,” Ambrosie said in the statement. “They are expected to be leaders in the locker room and role models in the community. Mr. Kelly’s suspension is the direct result of his behaviour. The addition of mandatory counselling focuses on his need for self-reflection and understanding of his actions.
“He must take full advantage of this opportunity for personal betterment in order to return to the CFL.”
The suspension also includes Toronto’s two pre-season games and practices.
The league’s reigning Most Outstanding Player was spotted at Argos rookie camp in Guelph on Thursday, wearing street clothes but helping out the quarterback group.
According to the league, it is under the Argos’ discretion whether the suspended player can attend practices, meetings and team activities.
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