Joe Paopao returns to B.C. Lions as the CFL club’s receivers coach

VANCOUVER – Joe Paopao is back with the B.C. Lions.

The club’s former starting quarterback, assistant and head coach returned Thursday as its receivers coach.Paopao played for the Lions from 1978-1983 and 1990) and served as the franchise’s head coach 1996,

Paopao also worked in various offensive roles, including backfield and quarterbacks coach (1989, 1991) and offensive co-ordinator (1992-93, 1999-2000).

“Joe is a meticulous teacher who demands a detailed approach to the game from his players,” Lions head coach Mike Benevides said in a statement.

Paopao had served as the head coach at the University of Waterloo (2012-2013) as well as its offensive co-ordinator from 2007 to 2011. He has previous CFL coaching experience with Hamilton, Ottawa, Winnipeg and Edmonton.

“I’m excited to be returning to British Columbia where my career in this great league began,” Paopao said. “The Lions have always been close to my heart and having an opportunity to work with Mike, his staff and some very gifted receivers is very exciting for me.”