New Coach for Tabbies

The Hamilton Tiger-Cats announced today that Charlie Taaffe has been named the team’s new head coach. Taaffe is the 19th head coach in Ticats history.

 “Charlie has been our first choice since we began the search for our next head coach,” said general manager Marcel Desjardins.  “He has proven himself at every level he has coached at and his track record in the Canadian Football League speaks for itself.  I’m very excited to work alongside Charlie as we prepare for next season.”

Taaffe brings a wealth of CFL experience to Hamilton after previously spending four seasons with the Montreal Alouettes from 1997-2000.  In his two seasons as head coach, Taaffe posted a 24-12 regular season record and led Montreal to the 2000 Grey Cup final.  Taaffe captured the Annus Stukus Trophy as CFL Coach of the Year in both years (1999-2000) he served as head coach. 

“I’m excited to return to the CFL,” said Taaffe.  “I am grateful for the opportunity presented to me by the Ticats organization.  Preparation for the 2007 season begins immediately and I look forward to the challenge that lies ahead.”

Taaffe joins the Ticats after spending the past six seasons coaching in the NCAA.  Most recently, Taaffe served as an offensive consultant with the University of Pittsburgh.  Before his stint in Pittsburgh, Taaffe was the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at the University of Maryland for four seasons (2001-2005).  While at the helm of the Terrapins’ offence, Taaffe orchestrated an attack that twice set school records for most points in a season (390 in 2001 and 451 in 2002) and finished the 2003 season ranked in the top 30 nationally in four offensive categories (rushing (24th), total offense (28th), scoring (27th) and pass efficiency (26th)).

Born April 20, 1950, Taaffe is married to his wife, Jan. The couple has one son, Brian.