| Born: | November 7, 1943 Peterborough, Ontario, Canada |
|---|---|
| Died: | February 16, 2021 (aged 77) Almonte, Ontario, Canada |
| Career information | |
| Position(s) | Linebacker / Fullback |
| College | Florida State |
| Career history | |
| As player | |
| 1967–75 | Ottawa Rough Riders |
| Career highlights and awards | |
| Awards | 1967 - Gruen Trophy |
| Honors | Grey Cup champion - 1968, 1969, 1973 |
Wayne Giardino (November 7, 1943 – February 16, 2021) was a Canadian athlete and coach in Canadian football. Giardino was an award-winning linebacker and Grey Cup Champion in the Canadian Football League with the Ottawa Rough Riders.
A graduate of Florida State University,[1] Giardino joined the Ottawa Rough Riders in 1967. Rushing 3 times for 15 yards and blocking a kick in his rookie season[2] was good enough to win the Gruen Trophy as best rookie in the East (this at a time when only Canadians were eligible for the award.) He later became a starting linebacker and dependable back up fullback, his best year being 1971 when he rushed for 201 yards.[3] On defence, he intercepted six passes, returning three for touchdowns, and took fumble recoveries back for another three touchdowns, including 146 yards in 1972, still the second best in CFL history.[4] On offence, he rushed for 536 yards and caught 44 passes during his career. He was a Grey Cup champion three times: 1968, 1969 and 1973. Finally, he was the head coach of the Ottawa Sooners junior team in 1994, leading them to a 7 win and 2 loss season.[5]