The Concordia Stingers are mourning the passing of Phil Roberts, a former player and coach who dedicated decades to Canadian football and the development of young athletes. Roberts passed away on Oct. 12, 2026, at the age of 70.
A native of Deux-Montagnes, Que., Roberts played linebacker for McGill University from 1975 to 1978 before completing his university football eligibility at Concordia. He was selected by the BC Lions in the fifth round of the 1978 CFL Draft and also attended training camps with the Montreal Alouettes.
Roberts returned to Concordia as a coach, most recently serving as the Stingers’ defensive coordinator and recruiting coordinator from 2010 to 2012.
His extensive coaching career also included stops at the University of Ottawa, Carleton University, Queen’s University, the Ottawa Renegades and the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. As head coach of Vanier College’s Cheetahs from 1987 to 1991, he led the team to three provincial Bol d’Or championships.
Beyond football, Roberts spent 31 years as an educator and guidance counsellor in Montreal and Ottawa, reflecting his lifelong commitment to supporting and mentoring young people.
Remembered by former teammates and colleagues as a coach who cared deeply about his players on and off the field, Roberts leaves a lasting legacy in Canadian football and in the many lives he touched throughout his career.
