John Forzani facts for kids

John Forzani (born April 5, 1947 – died October 31, 2014) was a Canadian businessman and a famous football player. He also became an owner of a Canadian Football League (CFL) team. He was well-known for starting the Forzani Group, a big sports retail company. John was born in Calgary, Alberta.

John Forzani's Football Journey

John Forzani was born in Calgary, Alberta, on April 5, 1947. He loved playing football. He played as an offensive lineman. This position means he was part of the team that blocked opponents. Their job was to protect his own team's players, especially the quarterback.

In 1971, John joined the Calgary Stampeders, a professional football team in the Canadian Football League (CFL). His team had a fantastic year in 1971. They won the 59th Grey Cup, which is the championship game of the Canadian Football League. This was a huge achievement for John and his team. He continued playing for the Stampeders until 1976.

From Player to Business Leader

After his football career, John Forzani became a very successful businessman. He was the Chairman and a co-founder of the Forzani Group. This company grew into a large chain of sports stores across Canada. It became one of the biggest sports retail businesses in the country.

John's experience as a football player likely helped him in business. He understood the world of sports and what athletes needed. This knowledge helped him build a successful company that sold sports equipment and clothing.

Team Owner and Legacy

John Forzani also returned to the world of football as a team owner. From 2005 to 2012, he was a co-owner of his old team, the Calgary Stampeders. This showed his continued love for the sport and his commitment to his home city.

John Forzani passed away on October 31, 2014, at the age of 67. He died from a heart attack in Palm Springs, California. He is remembered for his achievements both on the football field and in the business world.