The Edmonton football history is filled with triumphs, rivalries, and unforgettable moments that define the Edmonton football team. Since its early beginnings, the Edmonton football club has built a proud reputation in Canadian sports, earning loyal fans and numerous titles. Their journey reflects teamwork, resilience, and a lasting legacy in Canadian football.
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
Edmonton Football Team - The Canadian Football League is home to some of the most iconic teams in professional sports, and Edmonton's team is no exception. The Edmonton Football Team (EFT) has a long and storied history of over 100 years. As one of the oldest franchises in the CFL, they have had many different nicknames throughout Edmonton Football history. In this blog post, we will explore how these various nicknames came to be associated with Edmonton’s football team over the years!
When first established in 1949, EFT was known as “the Eskimos” - an homage to Canada’s northern heritage and culture. This nickname endured until 1971 when it was changed due to its potential for being misinterpreted by fans outside Alberta who may not know what an “Eskimo” means or represents culturally speaking.
Edmonton Football Origin
From 1972-1978 EFT went by another name; "The Oilers." The moniker paid tribute both geographically—as the oil plays such a significant role within Alberta—and also historically: at one point during World War II, there were two Royal Canadian Air Force squadrons based out of nearby Namao airfield, which was named after two local rivers; North Saskatchewan River & South Saskatchewan River respectively – hence why they chose "Oilers" as their new nickname!
Finally, from 1979 onwards, EFT adopted its current name: ‘Edmonton Football Team.' This change marked a critical moment for them —not only did it signal that they wanted people around Canada (and beyond!)to recognize them simply under this new title, but it also served as recognition towards all those involved with bringing together such great talent on the field each year since 1949– making sure everyone knows where credit should go when cheering on your favorite CFL team!.
All told then, whether you're cheering for 'the Eskimos', 'the Oilers' or just plain old 'Edmonton Football Team,' there's no denying that whichever way you call them –they remain one of Canada's premier football franchises today!
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
- July 21, 2020
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Temporary Name Edmonton Football Team or EE Football Team
In response to Obed’s calls for the team to change its name, the Eskimos organization announced that it would increase its engagement with Canada’s Inuit population. This engagement included holding consultations with Inuit in several Northern communities and sending Eskimos players to represent the team and meet with students in Inuvik and Tuktoyaktuk. In February 2020, following a year-long research ...
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 Football History
The Edmonton football team holds one of the richest legacies in the Canadian Football League (CFL). Established in 1949, the Edmonton football club quickly rose to prominence, capturing 15 Grey Cup championships. This remarkable feat places them alongside the Toronto Argonauts for the second-most titles in league history. Legendary players such as Warren Moon, Damon Allen, Doug Flutie, and Ricky Ray have been key figures in shaping the proud Edmonton football history.
The Edmonton football club has always enjoyed immense support from its passionate fan base, known to be one of the largest in CFL history. On every game day, thousands of loyal fans fill Commonwealth Stadium in Edmonton, Alberta, turning it into one of the loudest venues in Canadian sports. This consistent fan energy has fueled the Edmonton football team through every regular-season clash and playoff battle, keeping the spirit of the game alive for generations.
Strong leadership and coaching have also played an essential role in the Edmonton football history. Former player Jason Maas took charge as head coach in 2016, bringing discipline and consistency to the team. Under his guidance, the Edmonton football club made three playoff appearances, won two division titles, and saw Maas honored twice as CFL Coach of the Year. His success demonstrated the club’s ongoing commitment to excellence both on and off the field.
Edmonton Achievements
Multiple Grey Cup Championships
The Edmonton football team is celebrated for its 15 Grey Cup victories, solidifying its position as one of the most successful franchises in Canadian football. Each championship win represents the team’s tradition of excellence and the dedication of players and fans who have kept the Edmonton football club at the forefront of the CFL’s proud history.
Sports Fan Products
Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history