Doug Mitchell (Canadian football)

Doug Mitchell (born November 16, 1939, in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, died July 11, 2022) was a prominent figure in Canadian law, business, and amateur sport, particularly Canadian football. While not primarily known for playing professional football, his lasting impact stemmed from his roles as a league executive, team owner, and tireless advocate for the sport at the amateur and university levels.

Mitchell earned a law degree from the University of British Columbia (UBC). During his time at UBC, he played football for the UBC Thunderbirds. His playing career was cut short by injuries, but his passion for the game remained.

Following his legal career, Mitchell moved into the business world, becoming a partner at the law firm Borden Ladner Gervais (BLG).

His involvement in Canadian football intensified in the 1980s when he became a part-owner of the Calgary Stampeders of the Canadian Football League (CFL). He later served as the CFL's commissioner from 1984 to 1988. During his tenure as commissioner, Mitchell faced challenges including financial instability among some teams and competition from the World League of American Football. He is credited with stabilizing the league during a turbulent period.

Beyond the CFL, Mitchell was a staunch supporter of amateur football, particularly at the university level. He and his wife, Lois, established the Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre at UBC, a multi-purpose facility that hosted hockey events during the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. The Doug Mitchell U Sports Athlete of the Year Awards are presented annually to recognize outstanding athletes in Canadian university sports. He also played a key role in the creation of the U Sports Vanier Cup, the championship game of Canadian university football.

Mitchell's contributions to Canadian sports earned him numerous accolades, including the Order of Canada. He was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame as a builder in 2011, recognizing his significant contributions to the development and promotion of the sport. He is remembered for his dedication, leadership, and passion for Canadian football at all levels.