Queen's Pat Sheahan excited about addition and Blugh & saddened by departure of Vespaziani

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Former Bishop's Gaiters head football coach Leroy Blugh is the newest member of the Queen's Golden Gaels' coaching staff.

The Napanee-raised Blugh will be the defensive line coach this year, replacing 51-year coach Bob Vespaziani, who has decided to retire after an outstanding career.

Coach Pat Sheahan commented on the addition of Leroy Blugh and the departure of Bob Vespaziani.

“Leroy has enjoyed a stellar career in Canadian football. From his days at Napanee District High as a high school phenom to Bishop’s University, where he was an All Canadian and Presidents’ Trophy winner, to the CFL, where he enjoyed an amazing 15 year run, as a CIS Head Coach at BU where he was QIFC Coach of the Year in 2008(?) AND one day to the Canadian Football Hall of Fame. He is a legend in this area and highly respected across the country. He has has a very positive demeanour and an effervescent personality. We are delighted to have him on our staff for the 2011 season. Our D-line is excited about the opportunity to learn from him. A great addition to Pat Tracey’s defense.“

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Former CFLer and former Acadia Axemen Head Coach Bob Vespaziani has recently retired from active coaching at Queen’s.

“I am saddened that Bob will not be back with us this year but I respect his decision. Bob had a great three year run here at Queen’s, Coaching staff of the Year – 2008, National Champions – 2009 and OUA Gino Fracas Trophy winner – 2010. All-stars at his position during that period included Dee Sterling (EE), Neil Puffer (EE), Osi Ukwuoma (Cal) , Frank Pankewich (Sr) and Non All-star/#1 CFL draft pick Shomari Williams (Sask) (who wasn’t too shabby either!) Bob will be long remembered here at Queen’s for his commitment to our program, his excellence in teaching and his undying commitment to Canadian Football. He was in the football office by 6:30 AM most mornings and was one of the last to leave every night. I wish he and his wife Sheila many happy times for many years to come and I am grateful for what they did for our program.”