A case brought against quarterback Chad Kelly of the Argonauts was allegedly resolved through mediation.
According to two league sources, the deal was reached after all sides participated in mediation. The individuals spoke on the condition of anonymity since there was no public announcement that the agreement had been reached.
CBC Sports has not independently verified the report. There was also no indication as to the specifics of the settlement. The coach sought $80,000 from Kelly and $85,714 from the Argos. TSN also reported that the coach was seeking an additional $10,000 in punitive damages.
Except with permission, the Canadian Press does not publish the names of alleged victims of harassment or sexual assault.
Kelly was suspended by the CFL last month for both of Toronto’s exhibition games as well as at least nine regular-season games for violating the league’s policy on gender-based violence. The punishment came after an independent review of the former coach’s lawsuit against the player and the organization.
Must go through exams and therapy.
Kelly is required to undertake confidential assessments by an independent expert and attend mandatory counselling sessions led by a gender-based violence expert as part of the suspension. Both the counselling sessions and the exams must be completed satisfactorily before the CFL considers Kelly’s reinstatement, and it reserves the authority to amend his discipline.
Kelly, 30, was the CFL’s finest player last season, leading Toronto to a league-high and franchise-record 16-2 record. However, the Argos’ season concluded with a 38-17 home loss to eventual Grey Cup champion Montreal in the East Division final.
The CFL decided to open its inquiry after the complainant filed a statement of claim with the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, alleging a pattern of harassment by Kelly that began with unwanted amorous attempts and progressed to instances of threatening language.
According to the coach, the Argos did nothing when they were informed of Kelly’s actions. The complainant stated that she was informed in January that her contract with the club would not be extended.
The complainant joined the franchise in 2018 and claimed her contract had been repeatedly renewed. Kelly appeared on the field during Toronto’s rookie camp at the University of Guelph, shortly after the CFL issued his suspension. He was not wearing equipment and did not practice with the club.
On May 16, Kelly announced his withdrawal from Toronto’s camp, stating that he “will take full advantage of this counselling opportunity to learn, grow, and better myself.”
“At the same time, I want to support the Argonauts organization as it prepares for the season and have made the decision to withdraw from training camp to minimize distractions for the team and to put in the work to earn both reinstatement in the CFL and everyone’s trust,” the statement read. “I look forward to getting back on the field soon.”