The Ottawa REDBLACKS today announced multiple appointments to head coach Rick Campbell’s coaching staff for the 2016 season – six returning coaches and one newcomer.
The REDBLACKS defence will once again be led by defensive coordinator Mark Nelson, with Leroy Blugh as defensive line coach, Ike Charlton as defensive backs coach and Derek Oswalt as linebackers coach. Under their guidance last season, the REDBLACKS reestablished “Capital Punishment” on the D-line and established “D-Block” in the secondary. The REDBLACKS defensive line led the CFL in sacks with 61. The team defense tied for the league lead in interceptions with 26 and limited opposing teams to a league low average of only 70.8 yards rushing per game.
On the offensive side, receivers coach Travis Moore and offensive line coach Bryan Chiu have each signed for next season. Both played integral roles in coaching an offense that led the CFL in passing yards (5,816), overall completions (499), rushing touchdowns (18) and featured 4 players with over 1,000 yards receiving (Chris Williams, Greg Ellingson, Brad Sinopoli and Ernest Jackson).
“We had a lot of great players and great coaches last season and I’m glad we we’re able to bring back the guys we’ve announced today for continuity and to keep rolling,” said REDBLACKS head coach Rick Campbell. “Our objective for the coming season is to grow as a team and get better.”
The newcomer to the REDBLACKS coaching staff is special teams coordinator Bob Dyce. Most recently, Dyce, a native of Winnipeg, served as interim head coach of the Saskatchewan Roughriders after serving as the Riders’ special teams coordinator from 2013-2015. Prior to taking on special teams, Dyce served the Roughriders as offensive coordinator (2012) and passing game coordinator and receivers coach (2010-2011). He also served as receivers coach for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers (2003-2009) and receivers coach at the University of Manitoba (1996-2002).
“Bob Dyce is a very good coach and a man with great character,” said Campbell. “I’m looking forward to working with him and I know the players will as well.”
The REDBLACKS finished the 2015 regular season with a 12-6 record, clinching first place in the Eastern Division. After defeating Hamilton in the Eastern Final, the team advanced to the Grey Cup in the franchise’s second season.
Season tickets for 2016 are now available. Fans are encouraged to visit the Season Tickets page for details.
