MONTREAL — The Alouettes’ owners have sent general manager Danny Maciocia to the slaughterhouse.
• Also read: The Alouettes introduce their new coach
• Also read: Mario Cecchini is no longer president of the Alouettes
On Monday evening, “Le Journal” learned that President Mario Cecchini would not come back in 2023. No press release was sent and no one justified this decision.
Staying true to form, minority owner Gary Stern spoke briefly on Twitter, including saying he had respect for Cecchini and that a new chairman would eventually be appointed.
Again, nothing that explains why the organization decided not to offer a new contract to the man who was well-liked by fans and staff of the team.
Maciocia had questions about that on Wednesday, who held a press conference to introduce Jason Maas as head coach. It was therefore the GM who confirmed that Cecchini would no longer be a member of the Alouettes after the contract ended on December 31.
“Everyone knows my feelings towards Mario Cecchini. It’s no secret and you know how I feel,” said Maciocia, who has said repeatedly in recent weeks that he loves working with Cecchini.
“Today we are hiring a head coach and I think our focus should be on getting the person who will take us to the next level.”
The 55-year-old tried to save his own neck with that answer but was faced with several more questions about the ambiguity surrounding the owners and the future of the team.
Not interested in the presidency
Some have suggested that the Sparrows’ owners considered offering Maciocia the presidency in order to save a salary.
“I have not been offered the presidency and would like to become general manager of the Montreal Alouettes, please,” the GM replied.
Maciocia has worn two hats in 2022, having been interim head coach since July. He has said many times that he just wants a job and repeats that on Wednesday.
“My mandate is to be general manager and to be responsible for running football,” he said.
When asked if he had complete freedom of spending ahead of the free-agent market opening next February, Maciocia gave an answer that says it all.
“I would say yes, I think so, I hope so. I will keep you updated over the coming weeks.”
The owners should have asked themselves these questions. The successor to Sid Spiegel and Stern, on the other hand, has been conspicuous for its absence for many months.