TORONTO (CFL) — A 3.75 per cent increase in the Salary Expenditure Cap for 2008 speaks to the Canadian Football League’s resurgence and responsibility, says Commissioner Mark Cohon.
“Our league is moving forward, and the increase in the cap reflects our progress,” Cohon said as he publicly released the new cap limit today.
“At the same time, an increase of this size speaks to our teams’ responsibility to our players, who make our game great, and our fans, who keep it strong, to live within our means.”
With average attendance exceeding 29,000 for the first time since the 1983 season and domestic television ratings continuing to be very healthy, it makes sense to increase the cap from $4.05 million to $4.2 million, Cohon said.
“Still, we have to tread carefully and prudently, so we’re building on our success, not jeopardizing it,” he said.
The Salary Management System (SMS) was a success in its first full year in 2007, leveling the playing field and helping teams work towards a healthier bottom line.
“As with most innovations, this is a work in progress and there’s always room for improvement, but the system is working and it marks a step forward for the CFL.”
The SMS is just one of the topics the league’s leaders will discuss at the CFL Congress in Calgary Feb. 25-28.
