Piché steps down as Gee-Gees head coach

OTTAWA - Denis Piché has decided to step down as the head coach of the University of Ottawa Gee-Gees football team after eight seasons at the helm of the program.

The 43-year old from Montreal made the announcement earlier today after a team practice.

Piché told his team and the University's sport services department that family commitments and the desire to spend more quality time with his wife and two young girls was the reason for his departure.

"Leaving the program is gut-wrenching," said Piché. "Football has been a big part of my life for 35 years but I found that trying to make this team a contender every season and having a family life was becoming impossible."

Piché leaves the uOttawa head coaching position with a regular season record of 44-20 and eight straight OUA playoff berths, including the 2006 Yates Cup title and a second appearance in the 2008 Yates Cup.

Piché won the 2006 Frank Tindall Trophy as the CIS coach of the year after guiding the Gee-Gees to a 7-1 regular season record and an appearance in the Mitchell Bowl.

Piché spent a total of 15 years with the uOttawa football program first as player (1987-1990) then as an assistant coach (1997-2001).

Piché was named Gee-Gees head coach on January 15, 2002.

"Being named head coach of the Gee-Gees football team was a dream come true," said Piché. "I had eight great years with uOttawa. I had an unbelievable time and the opportunity to work with so many fantastic people and devoted coaches. I will leave the Gee-Gees with tremendous memories."

"I want to thank all the student-athletes that came here and made the commitment to the program, I'm never going to forget them."

Luc Gélineau, University of Ottawa director, sports services thanked Piché for his years of devoted services and immense contribution to the football program.

"Denis was an integral part of our football team's success during the last 15 seasons, especially during his tenure as head coach," Gélineau said. "He was a tireless worker, great competitor and truly passionate about making the Gee-Gees a top ranked team and perennial contender in the OUA and the CIS."

"I would like to thank Denis for his years of service to uOttawa and the football program. I wish him all the luck in his future endeavours."

Source: Ottawa Gee-Gees