Carleton adds to coaching staff

OTTAWA, ON — Carleton Ravens football coach Steve Sumarah announced Monday the hiring of Chris Hopkins as the team’s running backs coach and recruiting coordinator, completing the Ravens’ retooled coaching staff ahead of the 2018 season.

The offseason has seen several changes made to the Ravens’ coaching management team, with Hopkins joining Sumarah’s staff as the modern era program prepares to enter its sixth year in the fall.

“I am pleased that Chris Hopkins has joined our staff as the full-time running backs coach and recruiting coordinator.  This is a great pick-up for the Ravens’ program as it adds a coach with knowledge and passion for the game that is unmatched,” stated coach Sumarah. “Chris’ experience coaching in the International Bowl and his work in New Brunswick will only benefit him in his new role.  He will have a very visible presence in the football community across the country as he leads our recruiting efforts into 2019 and beyond.”

Chris Hopkins joins Carleton from Mount Allison University of the Atlantic University Sport (AUS) conference, where he has spent the last six seasons developing his coaching portfolio.

”This is a tremendous opportunity to work with coach Sumarah and the Carleton Ravens football program. Coach Sumarah and his staff have built an unbelievable program that is poised for a big season in 2018,” said Hopkins. ”The opportunity to work at an institution such as Carleton, with its strong reputation and resources, is an opportunity I could not pass up. I am excited to hit the road and meet future Ravens from across Canada.”

In 2017, Hopkins acted as Mount Allison’s special teams coordinator and running backs coach. Prior to last season’s role, Hopkins was the Mounties’ linebackers coach and special teams assistant (2016), an assistant coach (2013-2015) and the defensive line coach (2012), gaining a balanced perspective across all facets of the game.

Hopkins is looking forward to making his mark on the football field as well as playing a significant role in developing Carleton’s national recruitment strategy.

“I am committed to giving the program every ounce of passion and energy I have to ensure our student-athletes have the best experience possible. We will emphasize physical and mental toughness in everything we do,” added Hopkins. “Each and everyday you get to play football is special, so it is important we must exemplify that everyday.  Putting the players first and building strong relationships is paramount.”

In addition to his work at Mount Allison, Hopkins has played a vital role in developing the sport of football in his native New Brunswick. Hopkins is the director of high performance for Football New Brunswick, as well as head coach and offensive coordinator of Football New Brunswick U18s, a position he has held since 2014. The former Mount Allison offensive lineman (2003-2007) has also coached the country’s elite with Team Canada at the International Bowl, serving as the team’s defensive line coach (2017), offensive line coach (2015-2016) and linebackers coach (2014).

 

Source: Carleton Sports Information