It may only be January, but the Sarnia Imperials are getting geared up for this year's Northern Football Conference season.
There are some changes at the top of the club with the addition of special teams, offensive line, wide receiver, and running back coaches and a new massage therapist.
Nathan Ainsworth joins the team as director of business operations and community relations.
"I'm just going to take the load off of some of the others, mainly Jake (Cherski) this year to look after some of the behind the scenes, off-field and administration work," said Ainsworth. "We've talked between ourselves quite a bit, and we see big opportunities this year to shift our mandate to become more than a sports organization. We want to become a real community service organization."
President and Head Coach Jake Cherski said the new positions will hold everyone accountable.
"It allows more coaching for the players, so less standing around and a more professional atmosphere at camp," said Cherski. "The blue-chip players, when you can tell them you have a specific coach for them, they know they're not going to get washed out in the mix."
Cherski said they'll also be announcing partnerships with different community youth and healthcare groups in the coming weeks.
The annual general meeting is being held on January 26, while the season will get underway in late May.
Last season, the Imperials lost 43-0 to Steel City in the second round of the playoffs.
Quarterback Julian Shadd-Gentry and defensive back Tyler Storie were named the Offensive and Defensive Players of the Year respectively.
Shadd-Gentry tossed for 2,086 yards and 20 touchdowns. Storie caught four interceptions, and four receiving touchdowns.
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Head Coach - Jake Cherski
Asst. Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator - Michael Fioroni
Offensive Coordinator - Sean Enwright
Special Teams - Adam Daviau
Asst. Coach - Paul Ostrowski
Offensive Line Coach - Mike Davidson
WR/RB Coach - Darren Issac
Strength and Conditioning - Jim Hext
Team Chiropractor - Brandon Purdy
Massage Therapist - Justin Smith
Equipment Manager - Jason Rodey
Asst. Equipment Manager - Crystal Peters
Bench Assistant - Peter Rigakos