Hamilton Tiger-Cats Mourns the Loss of GM Ted Goveia at 2025 Game

The Hamilton Tiger-Cats have announced the passing of general manager Ted Goveia, who died after a battle with cancer. The team shared the news on September 12, 2025, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of a respected leader and friend. Goveia’s impact on Canadian football will be commemorated during the evening’s “Team Ted” game against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

In a statement, the Tiger-Cats expressed, “Ted was a highly respected leader, colleague, and friend whose passion and commitment for Canadian football left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His dedication to the game and to the Tiger-Cats family will never be forgotten.” Goveia, a native of Burlington, Ont., was appointed GM on December 5, 2024, marking his first season with the team.

Goveia disclosed his diagnosis of a “serious form of cancer” in June 2025. While he did not publicly specify the type of cancer, sources indicated he was dealing with esophageal cancer. Goveia had prioritized focusing on building his team and ensuring the roster’s strength over discussing his health publicly.

“I wanted to keep my health condition in-house until we had a chance to build our team and pick our final roster,” he explained. He acknowledged that his treatment would require time away from the team facilities but assured the players he could still contribute remotely. “I’m still the general manager, but I’ll not always be in the building,” he added.

Prior to joining the Tiger-Cats, Goveia spent 11 years with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, where he held various roles, including assistant GM and player-personnel director. His promotion to senior assistant GM came after the Bombers’ 2019 Grey Cup victory over Hamilton.

Reflecting on his new role, Goveia shared a sense of fulfillment in returning to his roots. “The other morning I went into the office at 6:30 a.m.,” he recalled. “I just sat there smiling as I drove, thinking, ‘Man, I’m 17 minutes from home.’ I do love southern Ontario and appreciate the opportunity to work back at home, for sure.”

Goveia’s tenure with the Tiger-Cats began amid efforts to rejuvenate a team that had missed the CFL playoffs the previous year. As he worked tirelessly to assemble a competitive roster, he continued to foster relationships within the organization.

Despite the challenges brought on by his health, Goveia maintained a positive outlook. “I enjoy being around our players and I will miss the daily interaction — it motivates me to kick this and get back with the team,” he stated. His commitment to the Tiger-Cats was evident, as he believed in the potential of the team, which is currently leading the East Division with a 7-5 record.

Throughout his career, Goveia demonstrated a deep commitment to Canadian football, coaching at various levels, including stints at Mount Allison, McMaster, and the University of British Columbia. His efforts contributed to multiple playoff appearances and Grey Cup victories, including the 100th Grey Cup with the Toronto Argonauts in 2012.

The Hamilton Tiger-Cats and the entire Canadian football community mourn the loss of Ted Goveia, whose legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire players and fans alike.