Toronto Argonauts Name Jim Barker as its New Head Coach
Posted February 9, 2010 11:55 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
With questions still swirling around their uncertain ownership situation, the Toronto Argonauts addressed one of their other pressing off-season issues Tuesday, naming Jim Barker as the new head coach.
Barker, who was relieved as Argos coach a decade ago following an ownership change, had been working as an executive with the Calgary Stampeders for the last five years. He has not been a coach since 2003.
“I am thrilled to return to Toronto and to coaching. Coaching never leaves your blood and for me, this is the right situation, with the right organization and people, to return to the sidelines,” Barker said.
Barker replaces Bart Andrus, who was fired in December after leading the team to a 3-15 record and last-place finish in the East Division. The Argos missed the CFL playoffs for a second straight year.
Barker had overseen a capable Toronto team in his last season with the Argos, a 9-9 season in 1999, but was caught up in an ownership change. Incoming owner Sherwood Schwarz dumped Barker – four years before he dumped the whole franchise at the league’s doorstep.
The Argos are facing more ownership questions this year, with most reports suggesting co-owners David Cynamon and Howard Sokolowski are set to sell to B.C. Lions owner David Braley.
Argos president Bob Nicholson said Adam Rita will continue to act as general manager.
Rita said Barker brings to the Argos “an enthusiasm and knowledge of the game that is second to none.”
“Jim has a leadership style our players will enjoy and flourish under. In addition to being a part of winning teams, he is able to motivate players, maximize their abilities and put them in the best positions to make plays and win games,” he said.
