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In the rich 134-year history of the Toronto Argonauts, there are many football heroes who have brought pride to the city of Toronto and the Double Blue but it is difficult to find a more popular name in team history than Michael Clemons.

Born and raised in Florida, the William and Mary economics graduate began his career in the CFL in 1989 after a brief stint in the National Football League. As a player, Clemons compiled a brilliant CFL career with the Toronto Argonauts, including a pro-football record for most career combined yards with 25,396. On September 15, 2000, Pinball hung up his Double Blue jersey after 12 brilliant seasons to move directly into the position of Head Coach. He retired with 12 all-time team records to his credit, including career receptions (682).

The man they call "Pinball" officially took over the coaching reins of the Argonauts for the second time on December 17, 2002. After guiding the team to its first playoff appearance in 3 years, when he took over as head coach from Gary Etcheverry on an interim basis for the second half of the 2002 season, Clemons earned recognition as a finalist for CFL Coach of the Year honours, an honour he has repeated in 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006. In 2004, Clemons led the team to its first Grey Cup victory since 1997, his first as Head Coach. In December 2007, Clemons stepped down as head coach of the Argonauts to become their new Chief Executive Officer.

In 2007, the Argos finished in first place for the second time under Coach Clemons’ guidance. He is the second-winningest coach in Argo history with 68 wins, second only to Bob O’Billovich, and is one of just three coaches, O’Billovich and Leo Cahill, in team history to coach at least 100 games (124) in Double Blue. Toronto clinched its sixth consecutive playoff berth this season, which tied with Lew Hayman for the longest streak by a head coach in team history. Michael Clemons is also tied for third place, with Cahill, in Argo history for most playoff appearances by an Argonauts Head Coach with six. Clemons finishes his career with a lifetime regular season coaching record of 68-55-1 and a .552 winning percentage.

Known for a personality that is as electric as his style of play on the field was, Clemons redefines the meaning of community involvement and has been recognized by many organizations for his tireless work with charities, schools and other community groups. Mike was awarded the Order of Ontario in 2001. In 2007, he fulfilled a longtime ambition by launching the Michael ‘Pinball’ Clemons Foundation to quicken academic excellence, infuse depth of character, promote health and vitality, and inspire generosity in our youth. In February 2006, Clemons was named Chair of the Youth Challenge Fund by Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty. In 2005, he was an integral part of launching The Argos Foundation – Stop The Violence and was later named to its Board.

Whether in uniform, on the sidelines, or in the front office, Pinball has always been and continues to be one of Canada's favourite personalities. Clemons and his wife Diane, along with their treasured daughters, Rachel, Raven, and Rylie, are proud to call Oakville home.

Presentations Include:

All Heart: An Evening with Michael "Pinball" Clemons
It is impossible to overstate just how dynamic, how energizing Michael Clemons is on stage. Contrasting boundless "pinball"-like energy with moments of quiet dignity, he engages audience members, literally, to deliver an unforgettable, often emotional speech. One of the most in-demand speakers in Canada, he talks with unabashed passion about teamwork, about the potential in each of us to achieve anything we set our minds to, and about putting your heart -- fully -- into everything you do.

Winning Against the Odds
Renowned as one of pro football's most electrifying players, Toronto Argonauts running back Michael "Pinball" Clemons is the CFL's all time, all purpose yardage leader. However, it is his exceptional character, in addition to his outstanding athletic ability, which has made him the remarkable fan favourite he is throughout Canada. 



Michael's tireless community involvement and participation in countless charitable causes exemplify the qualities he possesses, which are so rarely found in today's professional athletes. His presentations are at once captivating and empowering, and clearly demonstrate the capabilities of teamwork. 



At only 5 feet 6 inches and 170 pounds, he also inspires his audiences by illustrating what is possible and what it means to beat the odds. Pinball communicates his heartfelt stories with a passionate spirit and his patented, contagious smile. Organizations respond to his presentations with rave reviews and overwhelming enthusiasm.

The Importance of Teamwork
Toronto Argonauts former coach and player Michael 'Pinball' Clemons is a man of unquestionable character and spirit. Not only is he renowned for his achievements on the football field, Pinball's aptitude for motivational speaking is undeniable. His presentations are at once captivating and empowering. He exemplifies the capabilities of teamwork and leadership while demonstrating what it means to beat the odds. 



Michael's tireless community involvement and participation in countless charitable causes exemplify the qualities he possesses, which are so rarely found in today's professional athletes. His presentations are at once captivating and empowering, and clearly demonstrate the capabilities of teamwork. 



Clemons will share his past experiences to illustrate how people can overcome obstacles and achieve success. Being just 5 feet, 6 inches tall and becoming a football superstar is quite exceptional. In his deeply moving and inspirational talk, he will speak about personal perseverance and the importance of teamwork, which is relevant to any industry.

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