U of Guelph courting Bombers Kyle Walters for athletic director

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This article was published 20/09/2015 (3983 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

MONTREAL — The University of Guelph wants Kyle Walters. The question is, does the Winnipeg Blue Bombers GM want the Gryphons.

The Gryphons football team is coached by the wealthy and influential Stu Lang. Lang has donated more than $21 million to CIS and high school programs. He has given money to his alma mater, Queen’s University, and Guelph, where he has been on the coaching staff since 2009.

The former Edmonton Eskimos receiver and businessman has reportedly targeted Walters to replace Guelph athletic director Tom Kendall.

Walters has been approached by boosters at Guelph to take over for the 69-year-old Kendall, who is set to retire in December.

“Kyle has been approached by some of our alumni to gauge his interest in the position,” said a Guelph alumnus, who requested anonymity.

Walters played and coached at the University of Guelph and was head coach of the football team from 2006 through 2009.

“Kyle has no comment,” said Bombers director of communications Darren Cameron via text, when asked if Walters could be made available to discuss this development.

Walters has two years remaining on his contract following this season, but speaking to a well-regarded CFL agent, it is believed there would be an opening in his pact to allow him to leave for such a position.

The Bombers’ job would pay more per year, but the security of an AD position at a CIS school and the perks associated with being a university employee are attractive.

Lang was reached via email Sunday, but deflected comment to Kendall.

“I have no comment at the present time. My staff and I are preparing for a tough game against Ottawa,” wrote Lang.

Kendall was even more economic with his email response to a query about the future of the university’s athletic leadership.

“I have no comment,” wrote Kendall.

Lots of no comments but no denials. Walters was in Guelph this week for the Gryphons’ homecoming game and to scout for the Bombers.

His Bombers salary is north of $200,000. Most CIS athletic directors earn in the area of $125,000. 

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But an AD job is a job for life. Walters would have security and be able to keep his hand in football.

Walters is a native of St. Thomas, Ont., a 90-minute drive from Guelph.

gary.lawless@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @garylawless