Eskimos tab LeLacheur as club president

Oct 28, 2006, 20:25 GMT

Edmonton, AB - The Edmonton Eskimos have selected Rick LeLacheur as their new club president and CEO to replace the retiring Hugh Campbell.

Campbell will step down officially on December 31.

LeLacheur had been with the Eskimos as the club's Chief Operating Officer since 2003 and the Eskimos had planned for him to take over for Campbell, who spent 26 years with the franchise and, as head coach, led the Esks to five straight Grey Cup titles from 1978-82.

'This is final phase of our three-year transition plan for Rick to take over from Hugh,' said Bob MacLean, chairman of the club's Board of Directors. 'The Board is delighted that this has been a seamless succession. Rick has an excellent track record as the club's COO and we know he will be a great leader for the Eskimo organization. While we are all disappointed with the outcome of the 2006 season, I know that Rick is very eager to get on with the planning for next season immediately.'

The Eskimos finished last in the West Division this year with a record of 7-11 and missed the CFL playoffs for the first time 35 years.

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