HERVEY GETS NEW DEAL

(Edmonton) – Eskimos President and CEO Len Rhodes announces the contract extension of General Manager Ed Hervey.

The extension sees Hervey also named Vice President of Football Operations and keeps him with the Green and Gold through the 2017 season.

“Preserving effective leadership is integral to the health and success of this club,” says Rhodes.  “Every decision Ed makes is with the goal of long-term success on-field and making a positive impact in the community. He has quickly developed as a leader among his peers.”

“Naming Ed a vice president reflects the executive role he plays within the organization at a senior management level.”

Hervey enters his 17th season with the Eskimos and his third as General Manager after his hire on Dec. 10, 2012.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to build a team this community can be proud of,” says Hervey. “A total group effort, I appreciate the coaches, staff and players who work tirelessly to transform our football department and establish a solid foundation for sustained success.”

“I’m very excited about what lies ahead for our organization. I thank Len and the Board of Directors for entrusting me with the responsibility of leading Eskimos football.”

On Nov. 27, 2013, Hervey made his first Head Coach hire, naming Chris Jones as the 20th Head Coach of the Edmonton Eskimos.

Last season, the club set a franchise record for single-season turnaround with a 12-6 record, won the West Semi-Final at home and made an appearance in the West Final.

Hervey continues to build a competitive roster with an emphasis on depth, character, toughness, athleticism and winning.

Also under Hervey’s leadership, the scouting department expanded to ensure widespread coverage in all regions of the United States and Canada, increasing the club’s ability to identify and recruit top level talent.

Hervey established the Annual Amateur Football Summit, now in its third year, with the goal of Long-Term Athlete Development. The event brings together stakeholders from Northern Alberta to review rules and regulations, player skill development, coaching development, officiating and the continued advancement of football at all levels.

A two-time Grey Cup champion and former CFL All-Star, Hervey was the team’s West Coast Scout from 2007 to 2008 and Head Scout from 2009 to 2012.

Before joining the front office, he played eight seasons (1999-2006) as an Eskimos wide receiver. The former University of Southern California football and track star stood out for his world-class speed, toughness and leadership – on and off the field.  In 118 CFL games, he caught 476 passes for 6,715 yards and 43 touchdowns.  He played in eight post-season games and three Grey Cup games, winning in 2003 and 2005.  In 2006, Hervey received the David Boone Memorial Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the community.

“Ed is a true Eskimo through and through. He lives in Edmonton and is more than a resident,” says Rhodes. “He is deeply committed to the club and our community work.”