DCHP-3

designated import

DCHP-2 (May 2016)

Spelling variants:
DI

n. — Canadian Football

a non-Canadian player whose participation in the game is limited according to the current CFL rule book.

Type: 1. Origin — The meaning of the term designated import has changed several times since it was first introduced. In most common usage, it designates a (non-Canadian) player who cannot play in the opening formation of a game but can then participate as a member of a special team or replace another player, who then cannot return to the game. For most intents and purposes, a designated import is a non-Canadian player who can play once a game has started even if the number of import players is already at the maximum.
The rules surrounding imports are intended to ensure that Canadian players have a chance to participate in the CFL.
See also COD-2, which marks the term as "Cdn Football".

Quotations

1968
The 14th player -- the designated import -- is available in case of injury to, or inefficiency of, any of the original 13.
1978
The strong-armed pivot's fate was due, in part, to the CFL's designated import rule. CFL teams are allowed to play 14 imports and one designated import in each game. The DI, if he plays any position but quarterback, may enter the game only once and the player he replaces is out of the game.
1985
By starting Edwards, a non-import, and activating an extra American, linebacker Lamont Jeffers, coach Joe Galat has only four starting imports on offence Barnes, Dwaine Wilson, Alan Reid and Kris Haines along with the designated import, quarterback Turner Gill.
1993
B.C.'s designated import in Calgary will be an offensive player because the Lions are playing one American short on defence; they play with three non-import defensive linemen.
2007
Keep all your designated imports and reserve Canadians in place and make one change, at least for this week: Let Troy Westwood have one more crack at the kicking chores.
2012
If Volny is a no-go for Friday's game against Montreal (and all indications are he won't be ready), the club will look at using one of its designated import spots on Will Ford, who's been on the practice roster. Winnipeg has yet to use a DI player on offence this season.

References

  • COD-2