The Calgary Stampeders have announced that longtime assistant coaches Mark Kilam and Brent Monson will not be returning for the 2025 season. Along with Juwan Simpson, the defensive-line coach, Kilam and Monson were not retained after the team’s disappointing 5-12-1 season, which saw them miss the playoffs for the first time since 2004. General Manager and head coach Dave Dickenson stated that the organization felt changes were needed to rebuild a winning team, and thanked the coaches for their contributions while wishing them the best in the future. Kilam had been with the Stampeders for 20 years, while Monson had been with the team for 15 years, and Simpson had been on the coaching staff for two years.
Dave Dickenson praised Kilam for being a loyal soldier and an integral part of the Stampeders’ Grey Cup-winning seasons. He also commended Monson for his hard work and dedication to the team, stating that no one worked harder than him. Simpson, a former Stampeders player, was recognized for his contributions both as a player and a coach, with his connection to the team dating back to 2008. The Stampeders expressed their appreciation for the coaches’ efforts and noted that further announcements regarding the football operations staff would be made at a later date.
The decision to part ways with Kilam, Monson, and Simpson indicates a significant shakeup within the Calgary Stampeders coaching staff. The team’s disappointing season likely played a role in the organization’s decision to make changes in order to improve performance and return to a winning form. With a history of success, including Grey Cup victories, the Stampeders are likely looking to make strategic adjustments to ensure a more competitive and successful future. The departure of these long-time assistants marks the beginning of a new chapter for the team as they work towards rebuilding and regaining their competitive edge.
The announcement of Kilam and Monson’s departure signals the end of an era for the Calgary Stampeders, who will now be looking to fill key coaching positions with new talent. The team will need to carefully consider their options and strategically select coaches who can bring fresh perspectives and strategies to the table. As the Stampeders aim to bounce back from their disappointing season and return to playoff contention, the selection of new coaching staff will play a crucial role in shaping the team’s future success.
Moving forward, the Calgary Stampeders will be focusing on rebuilding their coaching staff and making strategic decisions to improve their performance in the upcoming season. With key positions to fill and a desire to return to winning form, the team will need to carefully consider their options and make decisions that will set them on the path to success. As the Stampeders look towards the future, they will be working to establish a coaching staff that can lead them to victory and help them achieve their goals of returning to playoff contention and championship success in the CFL.
