The Edmonton Elks history stands out as one of the richest stories in Canadian football. Over the years, Edmonton Elks football has built a legacy of success with consistent championship performances and a remarkable Edmonton Elks record. From memorable Grey Cup wins to loyal fan support, the team remains a cornerstone of the CFL’s proud tradition.
Established
1949
City
Edmonton
League History
1958 – Present / Canadian Football League
Team History
2021 - Present / Edmonton Elks
2021 / Edmonton Football Team
1949 - 2020 / Edmonton Eskimo
Nickname
Elks - The Edmonton Elks have been a beloved Canadian Football League (CFL) team since 1949, and their name has become synonymous with the city of Edmonton. But where did this iconic nickname come from? Let's look at the Edmonton Elks history and origins of the "Elks" moniker!
Edmonton Elks Origin
It all began in 1947 when local businessman Bill Hunter founded an amateur football club called The Alberta Elks. He created this unique name to honor his hometown Elk Point, Alberta – named after its large elk population in 1892. After two successful years as an amateur, Hunter decided to bring his team into the professional ranks by joining the Western Interprovincial Football Union (WIFU). In doing so, he also kept their original nickname: The Edmonton Elks.
Since then, these “Elks” have won several Grey Cup championships and become one of Canada’s most popular teams in terms of fan support and attendance figures! Even today, they still proudly wear their signature green-and-gold uniforms while playing under that same old moniker: The Edmonton Elks!
So next time you hear someone mention “the elk” or see those favorite colors around town – remember that it all started in 1947 thanks to one man who wanted to honor his hometown by giving them a unique identity within professional sports leagues across North America.
Championship
Grey Cup 0
2015, 2005, 2003, 1993, 1987, 1982, 1981, 1980, 1979, 1978, 1975, 1956, 1955, 1954
Stadium
1978 - Present / The Brick Field at Commonwealth Stadium
1949 - 1978 / Clarke Stadium
Owner
1949 - Present / Community - Widely Held
- 2019
- 2021
New Name Coming for the Eskimos
“People who defended the Eskimos’ name only a year ago are less comfortable with it now,” board chair Janice Agrios said at a news conference. “Institutions are being renamed around the world. The change to our name is part of a sweeping societal change.” The team’s current name Eskimos has been criticized as insensitive or even racist and Agrios said ...
Edmonton Football Team are Now the Elks
On June 1, 2021, it was formally announced that the new Edmonton team name would be the Edmonton Elks, a name used by the Edmonton football club of 1922. 2012–2015 uniform combinations as the Edmonton Eskimos The team colors, green and gold, have remained essentially the same over the years with only minor modifications to the uniform or logo until ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Edmonton Elks History
The Edmonton Elks are one of the most storied franchises in Canadian football, proudly representing Alberta in the Canadian Football League (CFL) since 1954. Originally founded in 1949, the team quickly grew into a powerhouse, known for its strength, strategy, and dedication to the game. Over the years, the Edmonton Elks football program has earned respect across the league for its consistent performances and community connection.
Throughout their history, the Edmonton Elks have won multiple Grey Cup championships, with five official Edmonton Elks record titles. Their 2015 triumph was particularly memorable, as they defeated the Ottawa Redblacks 26–20 at Investors Group Field. That win marked their first championship since 2005 and solidified their place among the CFL’s most competitive teams.
The team’s legacy is deeply tied to its legendary players. Greats like Warren Moon, Mike Pringle, and Chris Schultz helped shape the Edmonton Elks football identity during the franchise’s dominant years. Modern stars such as Derel Walker and Cauchy Muamba have continued that proud tradition, representing the new generation of talent that keeps the Edmonton Elks record strong.
Elks Achievements
Beyond the field, the Edmonton Elks are backed by one of the most passionate fanbases in the CFL. Commonwealth Stadium often fills with roaring supporters, showing unwavering loyalty through every season. Even in rebuilding years, the fans’ devotion reflects how deeply Edmonton Elks football is rooted in Alberta’s sports culture.
2015 Grey Cup Victory
One of the most remarkable accomplishments in Edmonton Elks history came in 2015. Under head coach Chris Jones, the team showcased dominance on both offense and defense throughout the season. Their Grey Cup win over Ottawa was a defining moment that restored pride in Edmonton and marked another golden chapter in the Edmonton Elks record.
With a proud legacy, strong leadership, and continued fan support, the Edmonton Elks remain a cornerstone of Canadian football. Their determination to bring another championship to Alberta keeps their story alive, as they strive to add new milestones to the ever-growing Edmonton Elks history.
Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history