The CJFL in conjunction with the Ontario Conference (OFC) have released their 2023 schedule that will see the six-member Conference open the CJFL season the weekend of August 12, 2023 with a full slate of games

The defending Conference champion St. Clair Saints begin their title defence that evening at 7:00pm when they host the Quinte Skyhawks. Earlier that day the London Beefeaters visit the Ottawa Sooners at 4:00pm at Lee’s Stadium in an Ontario Conference semi-final rematch to officially open the Conference season.  Then on August 13th the GTA Grizzlies entertain the Hamilton Hurricanes in a matinee at 1:00pm. 

The teams are scheduled to play an eight-week regular season concluding on October 1st.  The Conference playoffs will open on October 14th, following the Thanksgiving bye weekend with a pair of semi-finals before the Conference championship game scheduled for Saturday October 21st.

The winner of the Ontario final will travel to the Prairie Conference in the CJFL National Semi-Final on Saturday October 28th.  The winner of that game will travel to BC for the 2023 Canadian Bowl.

Photo courtesy of WJ Smith Photography

Loyalist College is investing in competitive athletics programming in the Bay of Quinte region by launching a new $50,000 sponsorship agreement with Quinte Skyhawks Football. This agreement strengthens Loyalist’s existing partnership with the Skyhawks.  

Since 2021, Loyalist has been the official home of the Skyhawks, a Canadian Junior Football League (CJFL) team that offers young athletes in Southeastern Ontario aged 18 to 22 an opportunity to play football at an advanced level of competition.    

The sponsorship agreement includes a Skyhawks bursary fund to support learners completing their post-secondary education while pursuing their dreams on the football field. The bursaries will provide essential financial support to any Skyhawks player who is also a full-time registered student in good academic standing at Loyalist College.  

“We’re proud to sponsor a community organization that is bringing growth and opportunities for youth to the Bay of Quinte,” said Loyalist College President and CEO Mark Kirkpatrick. “Building on our partnership with the Skyhawks means more students across the country won’t have to choose between competing in a sport they love and pursuing their post-secondary education. Together, we will continue removing barriers for learners seeking a competitive athletic environment within our tight-knit, caring community.” 

“Loyalist’s excellence in varsity athletics and student-centred philosophy makes it the perfect home for the Skyhawks,” said Peter Gabriel, President of Skyhawks Football. “As the team continues to grow and soar to new heights, we look forward to sharing the excitement of cheering on our region’s very own CJFL team with the entire Bay of Quinte community.”