The announcement came from the Blue Bombers’ front office earlier this week, catching fans and analysts by surprise. LaPolice, who was with the Bombers from 2010-2012 before a parting of ways, is now set to bring his vast experience and expertise back to the club, this time supporting head coach Mike O’Shea and offensive coordinator Buck Pierce.
A New Chapter in a Long Football Journey
Paul LaPolice’s relationship with the Blue Bombers has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows. His original hiring as head coach in 2010 followed a string of unsuccessful years for the Bombers, and while LaPolice showed promise with an innovative offense, his tenure was also marked by underachievement in terms of on-field results.
During his time as head coach, LaPolice’s offensive schemes were often praised for their creativity and complexity. The Bombers finished second in the CFL East Division in 2011, earning a playoff berth, but they never quite reached the heights that fans and the organization had hoped for. LaPolice was let go in 2012 after the team’s disappointing performance and failure to make significant strides toward a championship.
Though his stint as head coach ended under less-than-ideal circumstances, LaPolice remained a respected figure in Canadian football circles. He continued to work with various CFL teams, gaining valuable experience as an offensive coordinator with the Ottawa Redblacks and the Saskatchewan Roughriders, where his contributions were key in developing high-powered offenses and nurturing talented quarterbacks.
LaPolice’s coaching journey also included stints with the Toronto Argonauts, the Montreal Alouettes, and even a venture south of the border with NFL teams like the Kansas City Chiefs. Through these experiences, LaPolice honed his skills in multiple facets of coaching, building a reputation as one of the CFL’s most innovative offensive minds.
This new role as a bench coach with the Blue Bombers seems to be a reflection of both LaPolice’s growth and the organization’s evolving needs. The Bombers are coming off a series of successful seasons, culminating in their 2019 Grey Cup victory and strong showings in the seasons that followed. However, the franchise also faces challenges in maintaining its championship pedigree, and LaPolice’s return may be a strategic move to bolster the offense and bring new insights to the table.
The Decision to Bring LaPolice Back
So, why bring Paul LaPolice back now, and why in this particular capacity? Head coach Mike O’Shea, who has been at the helm of the Blue Bombers since 2014, commented on the decision: “Paul’s experience and knowledge of the game, particularly on the offensive side, is unmatched. His work with quarterbacks and offensive systems speaks for itself. We’re excited to have him back in the fold and know that he will be a great asset to our staff and players.”
O’Shea’s remark highlights the crucial factors in LaPolice’s return—his depth of experience and proven ability to mentor players, particularly quarterbacks. The Bombers’ offense, while consistently solid, has occasionally struggled to maintain the high level of explosiveness needed to compete in the tough CFL landscape. With LaPolice back in a supporting role, O’Shea and offensive coordinator Buck Pierce will have an additional layer of expertise at their disposal, potentially giving the team an extra edge heading into future seasons.
While the exact role of a “bench coach” can vary, it’s expected that LaPolice will assist with in-game decision-making, provide counsel to both quarterbacks and offensive players, and work closely with Pierce in the development of the team’s offensive schemes. He will also help the team’s offensive coaches manage game-day situations and contribute to player development on the sideline.
LaPolice’s Return: A Boost for the Bombers
LaPolice’s impact on the Blue Bombers is likely to extend beyond just his tactical and football expertise. His leadership and ability to connect with players on a personal level are some of the qualities that many people remember from his time as head coach. Even though his first stint as head coach ended prematurely, LaPolice left behind a reputation as a coach who deeply cared about his players and was willing to challenge them to improve.
LaPolice’s return will also be welcomed by many of the Bombers’ veteran players, particularly quarterback Zach Collaros, who has been instrumental in the team’s recent successes. Collaros, who joined the Bombers in 2019 and has since established himself as one of the CFL’s top quarterbacks, could stand to benefit greatly from LaPolice’s experience in developing signal-callers.
Given that LaPolice has worked with several notable quarterbacks throughout his career—such as Henry Burris in Ottawa and Darian Durant in Saskatchewan—his presence in the coaching room could help further refine Collaros’ game, especially in terms of situational decision-making and quarterback mechanics.
Furthermore, LaPolice’s return comes at a time when the Bombers are in a bit of a transition period. After back-to-back Grey Cup victories in 2019 and 2021, and a near-miss in 2022, the Blue Bombers have yet to find the same level of dominance in 2023. The team’s offense, although still formidable, has shown some inconsistency, particularly in key moments during tight games. LaPolice’s insight into how to stay sharp in high-pressure situations could prove invaluable as the Bombers seek to get back to their championship-winning ways.
LaPolice’s Legacy and Impact on the CFL
Paul LaPolice’s return to the Blue Bombers also reflects the broader evolution of the CFL coaching landscape. Throughout his career, LaPolice has been known for his ability to adapt to changing trends and styles of play, making him a valuable commodity in the constantly shifting world of professional football. His return to Winnipeg signals a shift toward bringing in veteran leadership to stabilize and improve the team’s systems.
In terms of legacy, LaPolice remains a figure of respect within the CFL, having played a role in the development of some of the league’s most innovative offensive schemes over the past decade. His ability to stay relevant in the league after his initial head coaching stint is a testament to his versatility and ability to grow within the game.
With his return to Winnipeg, LaPolice is not only looking to help the Bombers win now but also to ensure that the organization remains competitive for years to come. His mentorship and guidance could play a key role in shaping the next generation of Bombers players and ensuring that the team continues to compete for Grey Cups.
Looking Ahead
For the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, the return of Paul LaPolice is a move that brings fresh energy, experience, and expertise to a team that is already on a solid foundation. As a bench coach, LaPolice is expected to focus on enhancing the Bombers’ offensive playbook, aiding in game management, and helping develop key players like Collaros and the team’s younger offensive stars. With his arrival, the Bombers’ coaching staff will be even better equipped to take on the challenges of an increasingly competitive CFL.
As the 2024 season unfolds, all eyes will be on LaPolice and his impact on the sideline. If the Bombers can capitalize on his wealth of experience and innovative thinking, they may very well find themselves back on top of the CFL, with LaPolice playing a pivotal role in guiding them there.
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