Longtime Calgary Dinos head coach Mike Lashuk has passed away at the age of 84. The Edmonton native coached the team from 1969 to 1976 and again from 1978 to 1982, posting a regular season record of 57-49.
“Mike Lashuk set the table for the incredible success the Dinos football program has had in its history. Not only did he lead the program to its first Vanier Cup appearance in 1975, but the 1983 team that won the first of our five Vanier Cups had Mike’s fingerprints all over it,” said Dinos director of athletics Ben Matchett in a statement.
“He remained engaged and involved with the program for decades after his coaching career ended, including a stint as an analyst on our radio broadcasts in the mid-2000s. We are saddened by his passing and extend our condolences to his family, friends, and the many players, coaches, and staff he impacted throughout his career.”
The Dinos made their first-ever Vanier Cup appearance with Lashuk at the helm in 1975. Among those he helped recruit to the program were Vanier Cup-winning quarterback Greg Vavra, Blake Nill, and Wayne Harris, the latter two of whom have since served as the head coach of the Dinos.
Lashuk played for the Edmonton Football Team from 1957 to 1963 as a fullback and defensive back. He was named the CFL’s Most Outstanding Rookie in his first season.
