Bill Clarke

Norman Edwin William Clarke (November 25, 1932 – December 20, 2000) was a Canadian professional football player who played both defensive tackle and offensive tackle for the Saskatchewan Roughriders from 1951 through 1964. Clarke also was a curler, and won the inaugural Canadian schoolboy championships for Saskatchewan in 1950.

Early life Bill Clarke was born in Regina on November 25, 1932, to parents G.W.R. (Bill) and Ruth L. Clarke. He played junior football with the Regina Dales (later to become the Regina Rams) before turning professional with the Saskatchewan Roughriders in 1951.

Professional career Clarke became one of the longest-serving members of the Roughriders, playing 14 seasons as both an offensive and defensive tackle, including 8 seasons serving as the captain of the defence squad. He was awarded the Stack Tibitts Trophy as the Roughriders most valuable Canadian in 1959 and 1961 and was named to the Western Football Conference's All-Star team as a defensive tackle in 1961 and 1963. The 1963 Riders defence was notable for playing five games without yielding a touchdown.

Clarke's longtime dedication to the club was honoured with a life membership in 1963 and he was inducted into the Roughriders' Plaza of Honour in 1988. He retired from play following the 1964 CFL season.