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Gary LaGrange
Alberta football league

LaGrange named Buccaneers head coach

Apr 11, 2019 | 3:38 PM

The Central Alberta Buccaneers are welcoming a mainstay on the local football scene as their new head coach.

Gary LaGrange takes the reins of the Alberta Football League club for the 2019 season.

LaGrange has a history with the AFL that includes seven straight appearances in the league final from 1991-97 as a player with the Red Deer Sooners and Calgary Thunder, winning four titles (91,93,94 and 97). He was recognized as an AFL all-star and team MVP during his playing days and is a member of the AFL Hall of Fame.

LaGrange has been coaching at the high school level in Red Deer for the past 20 years, including time for Team Alberta at the Senior Bowl. LaGrange has attended coaching clinics at several prestigious U.S. Universities over the years – a list that includes LSU, Alabama, Notre Dame, Michigan St, University of Texas, University of Michigan, University of Florida, and University of Alabama.

“Coach LaGrange brings with him a great depth and breadth of knowledge, and an understanding of AFL football that we are excited to experience. His enthusiasm is unmatched and we believe he is the right man to take this team where it needs to go,” says Bucs Chairman and GM Vince Roth.

The Buccaneers host spring camp starting April 24 at MEGlobal Athletic Park in Lacombe. They will be holding their Black and Red Game on May 4.

The team’s annual Pub Night at Bo’s Bar and Stage is set for April 26.

The Bucs open regular season play May 26 when they visit the Calgary Wolfpack.