Former CFL receiver Jabari Arthur named offensive coordinator at University of Calgary

Photo courtesy: Calgary Dinos.

University of Calgary Dinos football head coach Wayne Harris has promoted defensive coordinator Matt Berry to the title of assistant head coach and promoted receivers coach Jabari Arthur to offensive coordinator.

The moves come in conjunction with the retirement of Pat Sheahan, who had served as offensive coordinator and assistant head coach since early 2019.

“I am pleased to have Matt and Jabari continue with our coaching staff in these elevated roles,” explained Harris in a press release.

“Matt is involved in all aspects of our program leading our youth development camps, video coordination, in addition to being the recruiting coordinator. Jabari has worked closely in the development of our offence and is truly a student of the game and will bring energy and excitement to our offence.”

Arthur moves up the coaching ranks after spending the last four seasons as the receivers coach. The former CFL wideout won a pair of Grey Cup rings with the Stampeders and has quickly excelled as a coach, helping twin brothers Jalen Philpot and Tyson Philpot earn first team All-Canadian honours this past season. Tyson was also named the Canada West Player of the Year.

“I am excited and honoured for the new role as offensive coordinator for the Dinos football team,” said Arthur. “It has been amazing working with a great staff, elite student-athletes, with the support from our alumni and community. I am looking forward to pursuing championships and growing the program. Thanks to Coach Wayne and the rest of the staff for the vote of confidence.”

Arthur made 97 career receptions for 1,162 yards and six touchdowns as a member of the Calgary Stampeders (2008-09, 2010-15) and Winnipeg Blue Bombers (2009). The native of Montreal, Que. was a first-round pick in the 2007 CFL Draft out of Akron.

Berry is entering his twelfth season with the Dinos coaching staff and has been the defensive coordinator since 2017, while also serving as the recruiting coordinator for Calgary. Originally from Bedford, N.S., Berry played football for the Ottawa Gee-Gees from 2000-03, winning the Vanier Cup in 2000.

“I’m honoured by this promotion to assistant head coach of the Dinos football program,” said Berry. “I want to thank Wayne and Ben [Matchett] for having the faith in me to fulfil this role. I am excited to continue our quest for national championships with our countless talented players and coaches.”