They are one of the oldest professional sports teams in North America. For decades, they were the premier summer sporting attraction in Toronto. They are the legendary Toronto Argonauts – commonly known as the Argos.
The Argos were founded by the Toronto-based Argonaut Rowing Club on October 4, 1873. Playing rugby football allowed the rowers to keep in shape and build up strength. Many members of the Argonaut Rowing Club had connections to the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge in England. So, the club adopted Oxford Blue and Cambridge Blue as their official colours – hence the term “Double Blue” – a nickname still used by the Argos today.
The Argonauts played their first rugby football game against Hamilton on October 18, 1873, winning by one goal and one touchdown to nothing at the University of Toronto. A rematch the following week in Hamilton, saw the home side securing the victory. This early home-and-home series served as a prelude to what would later become one of the CFL’s fiercest rivalries.
So, what exactly is an Argonaut?
To answer this question, you need to go back in history – way back – to 1400 BC or earlier. The Argonauts were great oarsmen of Greek mythology. According to legend, Jason and the Argonauts set sail on a ship named the Argo in their quest for the Golden Fleece. Over the years, the Argos have embraced this Greek mythology connection by incorporating imagery such as shields and ancient Greek warriors into their logos and uniforms. Their mascot is Jason the Argonaut.
Because of their rowing club roots, the Argos are often referred to as the Boatmen or the Scullers. The Argonaut Rowing Club continued to operate the Argos until 1956 when they sold the football team to private investors.
Like their ancient namesakes, who ultimately captured the Golden Fleece, the Toronto Argonauts continue their annual quest for the Grey Cup, having won the national championship a record 19 times – earning them their own place in the annals of history.
Further reading:
History of the Argonaut Rowing Club
This is the seventh of a series of posts that will explore the stories behind the names of the existing Canadian Football League teams. See the previous post on the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
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