On Monday, the Edmonton Elks Board of Directors announced effective immediately; they have terminated the contracts of President and CEO Chris Presson, General Manager and Vice President of Football Operations Brock Sunderland, and Head Coach Jaime Elizondo.
Ian Murray, Chair of the Board Directors on the changes, said. “After considerable discussion and consideration, the board of directors determined that major changes at the senior leadership level were needed to improve performance and rebuild the trust and confidence of Elks fans, season seat holders, and the community.”
Murray added, “I would like to thank Chris for his commitment to the Elks and wish him well in his future endeavors. Chris has been a very hard-working and respected leader for our organization through some very difficult times.”
Brock Sunderland had been with the Elks since 2017, and Jaime Elizondo was in his first year as a head coach after spending the 2020 season as an offensive coordinator with the Tampa Bay Vipers of the XFL.
The search for a new CEO and General Manager is already underway. Interim Allan Watt, the team’s Executive Director of Marketing, has been named interim Chief Operating Officer.
Watt said he is determined to give the fans a competitive team. “We are determined to give this community the competitive team long-time loyal fans have been accustomed to throughout this proud franchise’s history. We are equally committed to winning over new fans by supporting our community and developing a fun and engaging game experience that appeals to the broad demographic of our great city.”
Former CFL player, coach, and GM Wally Buono will consult and advise the process of the Elks hiring a new GM. The new GM is expected to be named before the end of 2021.
The Edmonton Elks finished last place in the West Division with a record of 3-11. The Elks had played three games in seven days to close out the 2021 season.
