REDBLACKS mourn the loss of George Brancato

The Ottawa REDBLACKS are saddened to learn of the passing of legendary Ottawa Rough Riders Head Coach George Brancato.

Brancato, who spent seven seasons as a player with the Roughriders, winning the Grey Cup in 1960 before going on to a decorated coaching career, died Tuesday. He was 88.

The Ottawa Sport Hall of Famer was the helm of Ottawa’s 1976 Grey Cup win, the last time the Cup would come to Ottawa until the REDBLACKS accomplished the feat four decades later. He also won it all as an assistant coachin 1973 before taking over. Brancato remained with Ottawa until 1984.

The Brooklyn native first came to Ottawa as a player in 1957 and was named an all-star in 1961.

The Ottawa REDBLACKS would like to extend their condolences to Brancato family and his many friends.

Photo: Scott Grant