The inevitable has happened as the NFL's Chicago Bears announced early Wednesday morning that they have named Marc Trestman as their 14th head coach in franchise history.
For many Montreal Alouettes fans, it is a bittersweet day to see arguably the most successful head coach in franchise history leave for the greener pastures and bigger opportunity down south.
In 2008, when Trestman was hired by the Alouettes there were questions on whether or not a man of his background would adapt to the CFL game. He went beyond the requirements of the game, and learned the Canadian culture, and made sure his players and staff respected the core values the game and country lives on.
Trestman transformed a football program that went from the brink of a potential abyss to the most desired destination, and being anointed the New England Patriots of the north.
In the coaching profession it is a short shelf life business. After leading the Alouettes to three consecutive Grey Cups appearances and winning it back to back, Trestman had the keys to the city.
Trestman could have stayed on with the Montreal organization and coach six months out of the year. He would be able spend the rest of his time with his family which was one of the important reasons why he enjoyed the CFL structure.
But for those who are apart of the coaching field all know this job does get monotous, and maybe Trestman felt it was time to move onto a bigger challenge. Ultimately, it is a every coach's dream to be at the highest level. Just like in '08 when many including myself questioned whether or not Trestman had the tangibles to retore the Alouettes dominance. He did that, plus more.
It could be viewed in the coaching journey that in-order for Trestman to reach the point that he is today, he needed to take the back roads of the CFL. It is an unorthodox approach, but it paid off in the long run as he will get the golden opportunity to coach one of the most storied NFL football franchises.
Right now the sadness is fresh for many Alouettes fans knowing they would never ever get a coach of Trestman's success in a short period of time. Furthermore, whoever does become the next head coach in Montreal will have enormous shoes to fill.
To use a comparison, it is like a hit television show that loses one of its main characters due to the actor exploring other endevors in their career. Usually, the show is not the same. In this case, the Alouettes hope the show will continue to be strong and competing for Grey Cups.
As Trestman moves on to the next chapter of his life. A sullen cloud has casted itself over the city of Montreal and its fans. But the Alouettes will hope to unearth another great coach that will continue to carry the torch of success for many years to come.
Simply put, Trestman came to Montreal as a humble coach looking for an opportunity. He leaves the city with legacy that may never ever be equaled in franchise history. Coach Trestman, good luck in your next project.
Follow me on Twitter @MoeKhan19
Listen to me every Tuesday night on Gamepoints, every Friday morning on The Snack, and various shows on TSN 690.
No comments:
Post a Comment