Shawn Lemon challenges CFL suspension for gambling, signs with Alouettes camp

Shawn Lemon Returns to Alouettes Training Camp Amid CFL Suspension Appeal

ST-JÉRÔME — Last Friday night, the CFL community was left scratching their heads when Shawn Lemon, who was recently suspended for betting on league games, showed up at the Alouettes’ Grey Cup ring ceremony. Many other key players from the championship-winning team were notably absent, raising eyebrows among fans and analysts.

However, the mystery was partially solved on Tuesday morning when Lemon was spotted on the field at the Claude Beaulieu Multisport Centre for the third day of training camp. It turns out that Lemon is currently appealing his suspension, which has allowed him to rejoin the team for practices, meetings, and film review sessions. An independent arbitrator will ultimately make a decision on his appeal.

Lemon, 35, was suspended indefinitely by the CFL on April 24 for betting on games during the 2021 season while playing for the Calgary Stampeders. Despite the suspension, the league found no evidence to suggest that Lemon’s wagers had any impact on the outcomes of the games.

The Alouettes issued a statement in support of the league’s decision, emphasizing the importance of upholding the integrity of the game. Lemon, a veteran rush end, has had a successful career in the CFL, winning three Grey Cups with three different organizations. His return to the Alouettes’ training camp has sparked discussions among fans and experts about the implications of his suspension appeal and the league’s gambling policies.