Lions Roar

The off-season means nothing for pro teams as they must continue to work “magic” within the roster both on and off the field when it comes to putting together a successful team.

We are hearing that the BC Lions continue to improve in several key areas in looking at regaining the road to the Grey Cup – soon we hope!

Lions News:

Wally Buono today announced five members of the team’s 2016 coaching staff including Mark Washington as defensive coordinator and secondary coach and Khari Jones as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach.

“I’m pleased to have Khari and Mark leading their respective units next season,” said Buono. “They’re both coaches who have been part of championship staffs in the past, they are effective teachers and leaders and I believe our players will respond to their approach.”

Returning to the den under Buono will be offensive line coach Dan Dorazio who spent the 2015 season with the Saskatchewan Roughriders and new to the staff this year, veteran CFL coach Marcel Bellefeuille who will coach the club’s receiving corps after serving as offensive coordinator in Winnipeg last season.

“I’ve worked with Dan for many years and I know he can get the very best out of our offensive linemen,” noted Buono.

National offensive lineman Dean Valli has elected to retire and Buono stated “Dean gave us everything he had for 10 years and I’m grateful for his contributions to our club both on the field and in the community.”

He continued “I know he steps away from the game with a very bright future ahead of him and we wish Dean the very best as he moves into the next phase of his life.”

Valli, a graduate of Simon Fraser University, was selected by the Lions in the first round (sixth overall) in the 2006 CFL Draft and appeared in 10 regular season games for the club last season and 155 during his 10 seasons as a pro. He earned Grey Cup rings in 2006 and 2011.

Beyond his accomplishments on the field, Dean was a tireless contributor to the club’s many community programs, dedicating countless hours to a multitude of worthwhile causes such as Be More Than a Bystander and FortisBC Energy Champions while making dozens of visits to amateur football practices across the Lower Mainland.

Valli stated “It was an incredible honour to have been able to play my entire career for my hometown team.”

International receiver Cam Morrah, who suffered a season-ending knee injury in 2015 has informed the club of his intention to retire as well.

Travis Lulay has re-signed with the team through 2017 as he was eligible to become a free agent tomorrow.

“Strength and depth at the quarterback position is vital to any team’s success,” said Buono. “Travis gives us all the qualities that you want in a quarterback. He’s a leader and a competitor and I am looking forward to seeing him along with Jonathon Jennings and Greg McGhee come to training camp and lead our club.”

The Montana State vet enters his eighth year with the Lions and currently sits third in team history with 16,960 passing yards and 101 touchdown passes.

The CFL’s Most Outstanding Player and a Grey Cup champion in 2011, Lulay has dressed for 99 regular season games dating back to 2009 with 65 starts (39-26).

“I have truly loved every moment of my time with the Lions and I’m ecstatic to be staying in BC,” said Lulay.