The BC Lions Football Club announced today that longtime Lions offensive lineman Kelly Bates has returned to the club to announce his retirement from the CFL playing ranks and accept a position as an assistant coach. "Kelly is a welcome addition to our staff," said Lions GM and head coach Wally Buono. "He's worked very closely with offensive line coach Dan Dorazio and I believe his experience and enthusiasm will lend itself well to his new role." The Leos' fourth round selection in the 2001 CFL Draft, Bates appeared in 115 games for the club through the 2008 season. He wrapped up his CFL playing days with stops in Winnipeg in 2009 as well as Saskatchewan and Edmonton in 2010. Bates was a West Division and CFL All-Star in 2007 and enjoyed two Grey Cup appearances in 2004 and 2006. "I am very grateful to Wally and the entire Lions organization," said Bates. "Not only have they allowed me to retire as a Lion which was very important to me, the opportunity to step into a coaching role demonstrates their dedication to investing into the future of our great league."
