NCAFAs Nepean Redskins to voluntarily change name and logo

Ottawa, September 19, 2013 – After thoughtful reflection and discussions with the
community, the Nepean Redskins Football Club has voluntarily decided to change the
name of the Club, retiring the moniker “Redskins” and the associated logo. This
transition will begin at the end of this year’s football season.
“As a community sport organization, the Club aims to provide a healthy and positive
environment for the youth in our programs, encourage sportsmanship at all levels of play
and instil a sense of pride and support for our community both on and off the field,” said
Steve Dean, President, Nepean Redskins Football Club. “Our members, past and
present, have voiced strong support for the Club and its ideals. While the ‘Redskins’
name was chosen in alliance with the Washington Redskins of the National Football
League, the Club understands that the current name is offensive to some, and thus
divisive to our community.”
“We want to enable the players, volunteers and parents to keep focused on what we do
best: provide excellent cheer and football programs; from tackle to touch to flag. This is
what draws us together.”
The name change will have both administrative and financial implications. It is predicted
that full transition will cost in excess of $100,000 and may take a number of years to
complete. The Club will also review the financial costs associated with this transition,
proceeding at a pace that will ensure the youth programs remain financially accessible to
all in the community.
The Club will choose a new name, logo and colours in consultation with players, parents
and volunteers at the end of this football season. This will allow the players and fans to
focus on the game in the interim. The current season ends in November, 2013.
The Club is celebrating 35 years of excellence in sport this year and during this time has
demonstrated a strong sense of community and civic pride. The Club has grown from
an organization with 60 players and volunteers to one that now has flag, tackle, touch
and cheer programs with more than 550 participants and volunteers.
“The Club will continue to promote excellence in all of its endeavours, set a positive
standard in our undertakings, and be a leader in representing the community in which we live,” added Dean.