BOMBERS SIGN O’SHEA AND WALTERS TO EXTENSIONS

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers are pleased to announce contract extensions for both General Manager Kyle Walters and Head Coach Mike O’Shea. Walters had one year remaining on his contract and has been extended through the 2023 season, while O’Shea, who was working on an expiring deal, is now onboard through 2022.

The two men have played pivotal roles in not only building the 2019 Grey Cup championship team, but in helping establish a foundation for a franchise that has posted four consecutive double-digit win seasons. 

“We’re thrilled to have Kyle and Mike remain at the helm of our football team for the next few seasons,” said Bombers President and CEO, Wade Miller. “Continuity in our football operations department is critical as Kyle and Mike continue to build a strong culture in and around our locker room.”

O’Shea’s role in this year’s championship has been prominent since he was first named the 30^th head coach in franchise history on December 4, 2013, making him the CFL’s longest-tenured head coach. Preaching discipline and a team-first approach, he has built a culture in which his coaching staff is empowered and his players are eager to play for him.

“When Kyle, Mike and I began this journey in 2013, I stated that we would build a winning and sustainable organization,” said Miller. “Kyle and Mike have been the drivers of this success and have helped establish a championship formula.”

Walters was named the 17th GM in Bombers history on November 26, 2013 after previously working with the club as an assistant general manager and an assistant coach. His success at the Canadian Football League Draft combined with shrewd trades and signings in free agency helped turn the Bombers into champions. This year’s championship has earned him his second Grey Cup ring after winning as a player with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in 1999.

Over the past four seasons, the Blue Bombers have posted a 44-28 won-lost record with four consecutive playoff appearances and now a Grey Cup title. The last time the franchise previously boasted four consecutive double-digit win seasons was from 1984 to 1987. 

(Darren Cameron, Bombers PR/Photo: CFL)