University of Saskatchewan head football coach Towriss stepping down

SASKATOON — Brian Towriss is stepping down after 33 years as the University of Saskatchewan’s head football coach.

Towriss, 60, a native of Moose Jaw, Sask., was a defensive lineman with the Huskies from 1974-77 before joining the program as an assistant coach under Val Schneider in 1980. He became head coach in 1984.

Towriss led the Huskies to three Vanier Cup titles and his 196 wins and 315 coaching appearances are the most in Canadian University history.

“I want to thank all of those that have supported me throughout my career at the University of Saskatchewan and all of the fans in Huskie Nation,” Towriss said in a statement. “I have had a fulfilling and wonderful career here.

“It wouldn’t have been possible without the support of my wife, Vicki, and my two wonderful children, Kellie and Jake. I have also had the pleasure of working with a loyal group of coaches and support staff that have shared my vision and passion for the program for a longtime. I am proud to say that we won a lot of football games and we did it with honesty, respect and hard work. I wish the program continued success and a return to national prominence.”

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Saskatchewan also won 11 Hardy Cup titles and made nine Vanier Cup appearances under Towriss, who was Canadian university football’s top coach in 1994. The Huskies sent 47 players to the CFL during Towriss’s tenure.

In 2007, Towriss received the Order of Merit, Saskatchewan’s highest honour.

“BT has had a long distinguished career as a coach, but moreover as a well-respected leader in sport across the Canada West and U Sports,” said athletic director Basil Hughton. “While the term legend is reserved for only a select few, I truly believe that it is fitting to describe BT and his accomplishments as one.

“He is the consummate professional, the ultimate team player and a well-respected voice around our Huskie coaches table. I am truly happy for him and respect his decision to devote more time to himself, his family and to whatever else his future holds.”

The school said the search for Towriss’s successor will begin immediately, with an interim coach expected to be named early in 2017.

The Canadian Press