Andrew Harris joining VI Raiders as Head of Football Operations

Andrew Harris of the CFL Toronto Argonauts is the Head of Football Operations for the Vancouver Island Raiders

(Nanaimo, B.C February 13, 2023) The Vancouver Island Raiders are thrilled to announce that Andrew Harris, as of immediately, is the new Head of Football Operations for the team and will be Head Coach for the 2024 season. The three-time national Canadian Junior Football Champion (2006, 2008, and 2009), who broke a number of British Columbia conference and Canadian Junior Football League (CJFL) records will be returning to the VI Raiders with a five-year Head of Football Operations contract and scheduled to be Head Coach for the 2024 season.

Harris is a four-time Grey Cup Champion (2022, 2021,2019, 2011), CFL’s Most Outstanding Canadian (2017), Grey Cup Most Valuable Canadian (2019, 2011) and Grey Cup MVP (2019).

Harris said, “my five years in Nanaimo as young player were pivotal for my training and football career, I want to take this passion that I have for the sport and build something great for these young up-and-coming players and of course win some championships”. In the first five years of the VI Raiders franchise, Harris was one of the best Junior Football players in the CJFL.  Kabel Atwall, President of VI Raiders said, “Andrew has been a proven winner throughout his career and it is anticipated that he will continue to be so in his new role. Andrew will be a great ambassador for the team, he will have a great rapport with players, coaches, recruits, and board members and our treasured fans.”

Harris is scheduled to begin work immediately. As Head of Football Operations, Harris will have full control over all aspects of the team as it relates to football.  This will include coaching, recruiting and marketing.  He will oversee all operations and make all decisions related to football from here on.  Harris will be head coach in 2024 season.  In the interim, he will appoint a head coach and work closely with her/him. An announcement will be forthcoming from the Argonauts as to Harris’ role with the Toronto team.

“The VI Raiders give a big thanks to Dave Shortill of Orca Wealth and Insurance Services of Ladysmith, Vancouver Island, for providing Harris a career opportunity outside of football,” Atwall said. It seems Harris, partner Danica and family will eventually make Nanaimo their home.

Go Raiders, looks like the VI Raiders are rising!

Further info: Contact Pamela Groberman pam@pamelagroberman.com