CFL.ca Staff
LENNOXVILLE, Que. — The Bishop’s University Department of Athletics announced today that Kevin Mackey has been named Head Coach of the Gaiters football program. Mackey is a five-year veteran of the Gaiters’ coaching staff, and becomes the ninth head coach of the Gaiters in the modern era.
A native of Ascot Corner, Que. and long-time resident of the Eastern Townships, Mackey joined the Gaiters in 2007 as Defensive Backs coach. His responsibilities have steadily increased over his time at Bishop’s, and he was promoted to Special Teams Coordinator in 2011.
“Kevin has been an important member of the football coaching staff for a number of years and we are pleased to see him step into the role of Head Coach,” said Bishop’s Athletic Director Tony Addona. “Bishop’s has always been a cradle for bright, young coaches, and I am sure Kevin will be no exception.”
Prior to joining Bishop’s, Mackey spent three years with the Champlain Cougars, coaching their defensive backs in 2003 and 2005 before being promoted to Defensive Coordinator in 2006. The Cougars advanced to two Bol d’Or provincial finals in his three seasons there.
“I am happy and honoured to accept the challenge of coaching at Bishop’s,” said Mackey. “I grew up watching the Gaiters, so this is a dream job for me. I am eager to get down to work continuing the Gaiters’ return to national prominence.”
Mackey played in 2004 with the Gaiters, making 29.5 tackles and one sack in eight games, and was named the team’s Defensive Player of the Year.
Mackey spent 1999-2002 as a defensive back with the University of Western Ontario Mustangs, playing under legendary coach Larry Haylor. Mackey was a three-year starter for the Mustangs, and graduated with a B.A. in Psychology in 2003.
Mackey played Cégep football with the Champlain Cougars from 1996-98, advancing to the Bol d’Or final in 1996, and winning the Don Bilodeau Trophy for dedication and commitment in 1998.
Mackey currently serves as a Councillor for the Municipality of Ascot Corner, after being elected to the post in 2009, and is the Chair of the municipality’s Recreation Committee.
Mackey’s appointment, for a renewable one-year term, is effective immediately.
