Burke Dales Death – Former punter Burke Dales, who contributed to the Calgary Stampeders’ victory in the 2008 Grey Cup, has passed away at the age of 46. The Calgary Stampeders officially announced Dales’ death on Sunday, although the cause has not been disclosed.
Originally from Collingwood, Ontario, Dales chose to settle in Calgary after his football career. Standing at six feet three inches and weighing 225 pounds, Dales played for the Stampeders for seven seasons from 2005 to 2011.
Throughout his career, Dales was recognized as a West Division all-star four times (in 2006, 2009, 2010, and 2011) and received league honors twice (in 2010 and 2011). Prior to retiring in May 2014, Dales also had stints with the Montreal Alouettes (in 2003 and 2013) and the Edmonton Elks (from 2012 to 2013).
Athleticism ran in Dales’ family. His sister, Stacey, achieved success as a basketball player at Oklahoma and later played in the Women’s National Basketball Association. Currently, she works as a reporter for the NFL Network. Additionally, his cousin, Jason Arnott, enjoyed an 18-season career with six different NHL teams before retiring in 2013.
Dales played college football at Concordia and even had a tryout with the NFL’s Pittsburgh Steelers in 2002. “Burke demonstrated exceptional skill during his time with the Stampeders, and his unwavering competitiveness set him apart in his position,” stated Stampeders president John Hufnagel. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.”