Former Canadian Football League QB named Coach and GM of Stamps

John Hufnagel has been named head coach and general manager of the Calgary Stampeders.
The long-rumoured hiring was announced at a news conference Monday. Hufnagel was the CFL team's offensive co-ordinator from 1990-'96 and helped the team to a Grey Cup in 1992. He also played for the Stampeders as a quarterback from 1976-'79.
"John has a long relationship with the Stampeder organization, myself, and members of our ownership group. His success on the field as both a player and a coach speaks for itself," said team president Ted Hellard.
Hufnagel replaced Tom Higgins, whose three-year run as head coach ended last month. The Stampeders were 7-10-1 this season and lost to Saskatchewan in the West Division semifinal.
"We will strive to eliminate what I call bad football that cursed this team last year," Hufnagel said. "Somehow and someway we will learn to play the game by the rules. We will protect the football and we will play aggressive, solid base defence.
"If the players in this locker-room can accomplish that, great. If not, some change will be needed."
Jim Barker will remain in the organization as director of player personnel and vice-president of football operations. The entire coaching staff will be replaced with the exception of offensive co-ordinator George Cortez, who remains with the club.
Hufnagel recently served as the offensive co-ordinator for the New York Giants. He has been a quarterbacks coach with several NFL teams and was also the head coach and GM of the New Jersey Red Dogs of the Arena Football League.