University of Toronto Varsity Blues football assistant coach Tommy Kanichis has been named head coach of the U18 Team Ontario tackle program, as announced by Football Ontario on Friday afternoon (July 19).
"Becoming the head coach of the Ontario U18 men's tackle program marks an exciting leap in my coaching career and professional development," said Kanichis. "It's a chance to bring my passion for football and the development of people to a broader community. This role energizes me with the opportunity to mentor young athletes and coaches to foster their potential, and instill a championship mentality both on-and-off the field."
As head coach, Kanichis will lead the premier high performance program for Football Ontario at annual Canada Cup. The national championship brings together the top high school talent from eight provinces (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia) in a three-game tournament. Ontario claimed gold at the most recent addition, taking to the top step for the first time in ten years.
"I'm thrilled to embark on this journey of growth and am eager to make a meaningful impact within Ontario's football community," added Kanichis. "It's not just about coaching; it's about inspiring a culture of excellence and resilience, and I'm excited to embrace the challenges and triumphs ahead."
Joining the Blues this past February as the football programs newest full-time assistant coach, Kanichis carries over a decade of high-performance experience. Most recently, he served as the Queen's Gaels halfbacks coach, offensive line assistant and recruiting coach during the 2023 season. Prior to that, Kanichis was the associate head coach, offensive coordinator and offensive line coach for the Saint Mary's Huskies from 2020-23. His other U SPORTS football stint came at the University of Waterloo, when he served as the running backs coach, offensive line assistant and scouting coordinator for the Waterloo Warriors from 2017-20. Kanichis also served as the offensive coordinator for Team East at the 2022 U SPORTS East West Bowl.
