New Lancers football coach Jean-Paul Circelli. Jan 22, 2019. (Photo courtesy of UWindsor)New Lancers football coach Jean-Paul Circelli. Jan 22, 2019. (Photo courtesy of UWindsor)
Windsor

'Can't wait to get started' says new Lancers football coach

The Lancers football program has found a new head coach.

Jean-Paul Circelli was announced Tuesday afternoon as the replacement for Joe D'Amore effective February 1. Circelli becomes only the fifth head coach in the 50-year history of the football program.

“I am thrilled to welcome JP Circelli and his family to the University of Windsor,” said Athletic Director Mike Havey. “JP is a passionate coach and leader and he is very highly regarded in the football community.

"He has been successful at every level at which he has coached or played, and he has had championship-level success throughout his coaching career," Havey added.

Circelli is a London, Ontario native and has been the offensive line coach of the Western Mustangs for the past four years. During his time coaching at Western, the Mustangs captured two straight provincial championships, made back-to-back national championship appearances, and won the national title in 2017.

“I am really looking forward to this tremendous opportunity to lead and develop a team that the University and Windsor community can be proud of,” said Circelli. “Achieving success both on and off the field will be fundamental goals of our football program, which include a focus on player development and community engagement. I can’t wait to get started.”

The Lancers will open the 2019 season on Sunday, August 25 when they host the York University Lions at Alumni Field.

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