Alouettes head coach Matthews resigns

Oct 4, 2006, 18:10 GMT

Montreal, QC - Montreal Alouettes head coach Don Matthews announced his resignation on Wednesday because of health-related issues.

While the specifics of Matthews' problems were not released, his health issues are not life threatening.

'Coach Matthews met with us over a month ago to explain his health concerns and we asked him to stay on at that time,' said Alouettes president and chief executive officer Larry Smith.

Matthews' resignation is effective immediately. Vice president and general manager Jim Popp will take over the head coaching duties.

In his coaching career, Matthews holds an overall record of 231-125-1, making him the winningest coach in CFL history. He joined the Alouettes at the end of the 2001 season and compiled a 58-28 mark with Montreal.

'It is very sad for us to lose the winningest coach in the history of this league,' Smith said. 'He has met all of our expectations, making it to three Grey Cups in his four years here and winning it in 2002. This season, we are first in the East Division and competing for the title. Our expectations of getting to and winning the Grey Cup have not changed.'

Last Friday, Montreal improved to 8-6 after its 23-20 win over Winnipeg that snapped a six-game losing streak that followed a 7-0 start. The Alouettes are tied with Toronto for first place in the Eastern Division with 16 points and will host Saskatchewan Monday.

© 2006 The Sports Network