Marcello Simmons to lead specialists through 2007
The Toronto Argonauts Football Club continues to build toward Grey Cup 2007 by securing Special Teams Coordinator Marcello Simmons.
“It is rare that a player makes such a smooth transition into coaching,” said Argos head coach Michael Clemons. “Marcello is arguably the most successful special teams coach in the CFL and may be the most successful in Toronto Argonauts history. Certainly, the numbers confirm this. It is because he is both diligent and intelligent that he has enjoyed his early success, but what I'm most excited about is how eager he is to grow and learn. This well rounded football star has now become a great coach, father and community member and we're so proud today to announce that he'll be an Argonaut through the 2007 Toronto Grey Cup.&rdquo
Since Simmons joined the Argonauts as a coach in 2003, the Boatmen have ruled the annual CFL awards and all-star balloting. In the past three seasons, Toronto players have led the CFL by filling five special teams positions on the East Division all-star team, three spots on the CFL all-star team and two players have represented the East Division at the annual CFL Outstanding Player awards. Under the guidance of Simmons, Bashir Levingston became the first Argo player to be nominated for, and win, the CFL's Outstanding Special Teams Player Award in 2003.
“I'm happy to remain part of this team for the long term,” said Simmons. “By re-signing good players, the Argos are have made it obvious to me that keeping us in contention for the Grey Cup is a priority.&rdquo
Simmons is the fourth member of the Argos' coaching staff who led the club to a Grey Cup championship in 2004 and a first place finish in 2005 to re-sign with the club through Grey Cup 2007 in Toronto; the other coaches are Clemons, assistant head coach/defensive coordinator Richard Stubler and offensive coordinator Kent Austin.
A native of Texas, Simmons originally joined the CFL as a player in 1995 when he signed with Toronto. He spent most of his career patrolling the secondary for the Double Blue, with brief stints in Edmonton and BC, until he retired in 2000.
