In this file photo B.C. Lions coach Greg Mohns looks on with concern as his team takes an early beating during first half of CFL exhibition action against the Calgary Stampeders in Vancouver June 27, 2000.CHUCK STOODY/The Canadian Press
Greg Mohns, former head coach of the B.C. Lions and a longtime member of the Toronto Argonaut front office, has lost his battle with throat cancer, he was 62.
"He will forever be remembered as one of the architects behind three of the team's Grey Cup championships in 1996, 1997 and 2004, and responsible for finding some of the most talented and decorated players to ever wear Double Blue," said a statement issued by the Argos late yesterday afternoon.
Mohns first joined the Argonauts for the 1996 season as its assistant general manager and director of football operations. After missing the 1995, the team improved to an over-all record of 17-3 en route to winning the first of back-to-back Grey Cup championships in 1996 and 1997.
Earlier in his career, Mohns joined the Lions on an interim basis in 1998, becoming the club's 21st head coach when general manager Adam Rita stepped down from the position.
After taking control of a 3-6 club, the Lions finished in third place in the CFL's West Division with a 9-9 record on the strength of a six-game winning streak to close the season.
The Lions began the 2000 season under Mohns with a 3-4 mark before he resigned and was replaced by Steve Buratto. In 34 games at the helm, Mohns' posted a career record of 22-12.
Mohns rejoined the Argos in 2003 as director of football operations, and once again helped to assemble a team that found immediate success by winning the 2004 Grey Cup championship. Mohns was rewarded for his work the next year when he was promoted to assistant general manager and director of football operations, a position that he held until his departure in 2009.
Mohns is survived by his son, Jason, who is currently the Head Coach at Saguaro High School in Scottsdale, Arizona.