A change has been made within the Calgary Stampeders front office as a new team president was named. Jay McNeil was appointed the role previously held by John Hufnagel.
McNeil joined the organization in October of 2022 as vice president of business operations. As part of his duties, he helped promote the team and work within the Calgary community. McNeil played for the Stampeders for 14 seasons, winning two Grey Cups and named CFL West All-Star six times.
“Jay’s passion for football coupled with his corporate success will position the Stampeders for the next chapter of growth and success both on and off the field,” John Bean, president and CEO of Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation, said in a statement Tuesday.
Hufnagel has been team president since 2016, also being the general manager from 2008-22. He was head coach of the Stampeders from 2008-15, compiling a 102-41-1 record with two Grey Cup titles. From 1976-79, Hufnagel played for Calgary as the team’s quarterback.
“The entire CSEC family extends our heartfelt appreciation to John Hufnagel for his many years of leadership to the Calgary Stampeders Football Club and active member on the CSEC Senior Management Team,” Bean said.
According to Hufnagel, since McNeil’s arrival in 2022, the plan was for the team to move him to team president.
“From the time of Jay’s arrival, the plan was always for Jay to grow into the president’s role and he’s done an excellent job. He’s earned this opportunity,” Hufnagel said. “I look forward to continuing to represent the Stampeders organization and to assisting both Jay and Dave.”
Calgary will still have Hufnagel with the organization as a special advisor to McNeil. He will also be a special advisor to head coach and general manager Dave Dickenson.
In other Stampeders news, the team announced the re-signing of fullback Wiliam Langlais and the signing of offensive lineman Chris Toth on Tuesday.
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