EDMONTON – Chris Morris is returning to his first Green and Gold football home.

A three-time Grey Cup champion (1993, 2003, 2005), Morris was named the President and CEO of the Edmonton Elks on Wednesday.  

Morris rejoins the Elks after having spent the last 12 years as the head coach of the Golden Bears Football program. One of the best offensive linemen in franchise history, Morris spent all 14 of his CFL seasons with the Green and Gold, making his debut in 1992 before retiring in 2005. He was inducted into the EE Wall of Honour in 2008.

"Over the past 12 years it has been my privilege and honour to serve as the head coach of the Golden Bears Football Program. During this time, I have served as coach and mentor to some incredible young men," said Morris. "I have also had the privilege of working alongside an incredibly dedicated staff that has sacrificed an incredible amount of time and energy to support these outstanding student-athletes.

I want to thank all of these people from the bottom of my heart for their efforts, sacrifices and friendship during this time. We built a program together that we can all be proud of." 

Morris leaves the Golden Bears football program having guided the team to four Canada West post-season appearances, including three playoff berths over the last five seasons, and a spot in the 2023 Hardy Cup. While leading the U of A, Morris rebuilt relationships with alumni, donors, and Northern Alberta's football community. He coached 19 CFL draft picks over his time with the Golden Bears, including current Elks Mark Korte, Jake Taylor, and Josiah Schakel.

"While we are disappointed to see Chris leave, we are so proud of the work he has done here at U of A, and look forward to the future success he will have in his new role," said Director of Athletics, Leah Pezer. "Chris has made a lasting impact, significantly advancing our team in recruiting top talent, building a strong and positive culture, and fostering relationships with alumni and donors. This has created tremendous stability and a positive student-athlete experience for the entire Bears Football program, something that we are so proud of at U of A. His leadership and dedication have left our program in a much stronger position, setting a solid foundation for continued success." 

Originally from Scarborough, Ont., Morris was a two-time CIS All-Canadian while playing for the University of Toronto Varsity Blues, winning the J.P. Metras Trophy as the nations best down lineman in 1990. Drafted in the first round (8th overall) of the 1992 CFL Draft by the Eskimos, Morris would play 237 regular season games with the Double E, 20 playoff games, appearing in five Grey Cups. While still playing with the Eskimos, Morris became a full-time teacher with Edmonton Public Schools in 1997 and ascended to principal at Spruce Avenue Junior High in 2009. 

Prior to joining the Golden Bears in 2013, Morris served as the offensive coordinator of the Harry Ainlay Titans football program, helping the Titans to three city championships, two Northern championships, and one provincial championship title.

"Golden Bears Football and the people I have worked alongside these last 12 years will always hold a special place in my heart and I will never forget my time here," continued Morris. "It has been an absolute honour to serve as this program's head coach."