Photo courtesy of Greystoke Photography

The Okanagan Sun and head coach Shane Beatty have mutually agreed to part ways, officially ending his three year stint in Kelowna.

Beatty led the Sun to their first BCFC championship in 11 seasons in 2015 following an undefeated regular season.   The team’s lone loss was in the national championship Canadian Bowl in Saskatoon.

In his three seasons leading the Sun on the field, the club amassed a 27-3 regular season record and were 30-6 overall.  He was named the Canadian Junior Football League Coach of the Year following the 2015 regular season.

“We thank Shane for bringing a tremendous competitive nature and a great passion for the game to the Sun,” said Sun President Bill Long. “He and his staff restored a winning culture that has been the standard for our franchise throughout our history.”

“Being a head coach of a Junior Football team is demanding and time consuming position.  Discussions after the season made it apparent that perhaps it was time for Shane to explore some other opportunities.  We wish Shane all the best, and we know he will continue to be successful.”

“I would like to thank the entire Okanagan Sun family for this great opportunity with no regrets,” said Beatty.  “I will cherish the three years I spent here, winning Coach of the Year twice and working with an outstanding group of young men.   I would like to thank all of the players over the last three years, I’m honoured to have coached you.  I would also like to thank my coaching staff and lastly Pastor Gary Swabey and Eric Pardy for their time and commitment to the players.”

The Sun have already begun the search for their 16th head coach in franchise history.   Spring Camp is set to open in May and the season in July.