December 1, 2010 York Region.com
It seems straight-shooter Don Cherry has turned into a passer.
The outspoken, occasionally controversial hockey commentator suited up for the Conservative Party of Canada last week and publicly endorsed high-profile Tory candidate Julian Fantino to give him some added scoring power with local voters.
But now, in the wake of Mr. Fantino's narrow federal byelection victory Monday, Mr. Cherry's gone quiet.
A request for an interview with Mr. Cherry to talk about "his good friend" garnered this response from CBC spokesperson Jeff Keay: "Don would prefer to take a pass on any comments."
The controversial coach was part of an all-star team - which included Prime Minister Stephen Harper and his wife, Laureen, Industry Minister Tony Clement and Justice Minister Rob Nicholson - that helped the Conservatives squeak by Liberal candidate Tony Genco in a riding held by the Grits for more than two decades.
He did this, in part, by recording a telephone message endorsing the 68-year-old former Ontario Provincial Police commissioner. In the days prior to hitting the polls, some Vaughan voters picked up their telephones only to hear Mr. Cherry sharing his views about why Mr. Fantino should be considered the top prospect to represent them in Ottawa.
A recording of the message was posted on the website of a Conservative blogger.
"Hi, it's Don Cherry. As you know, my good friend Julian Fantino is running in this election," he said. "There is not enough words to describe how much respect I have for Julian Fantino. He is honest, experienced and he's always there for the little guy. I know he would make an excellent member of Parliament. Thanks."
But Mr. Cherry, who is perhaps best known for his colourful rants on the Coach's Corner segment of CBC's Hockey Night in Canada, chose to stay silent the day after Mr. Fantino chalked up the win.