Bertoia, previously an assistant coach with the Western Mustangs, was an integral part of Warriors football during the glory years when Waterloo won the Yates Cup in 1997 and again when he captained the side in 1999.
“It wasn’t an easy decision to leave Western. I was very happy there and they treated my family and I so well,” said Chris Bertoia. “It's very rewarding to have an opportunity at a place where you played. It’s humbling to lead your alma mater. You can relate better with your players because you sat in the same chairs, went to the same classes, and represented the same football program. It makes everything more meaningful and I’m excited by the opportunity to rebuild the Warrior Football Program.”
Bertoia spent the last five seasons as Recruitment Coordinator and Offensive Line Coach for Western. He built a reputation as a strong mentor during his tenure at Western, coaching five Academic All-Canadians, 11 OUA All-Stars, and guiding six offensive linemen to gain experience in the Canadian Football League.
“Chris has been successful both as a player at Waterloo and within the CIS coaching ranks,” said Christine Stapleton, associate director of athletics at Waterloo. “We are excited to have Bertoia direct this program and we believe Chris will model exactly what it means to be a Warrior.”
Bertoia also brings experience in recruitment, alumni engagement and fundraising initiatives – key aspects of this role. Bertoia will be tasked with creating a culture, with an increased sense of accountability and pride.
“Our commitment to our stakeholders was to find a leader that could rebuild our program to be both successful and sustainable,” commented Roly Webster, director of athletics and recreation at Waterloo. “Today I feel we have honoured that commitment in announcing Chris Bertoia as our new coach.”
Despite recent struggles on the gridiron, Warriors Football has enjoyed success with 170 student-athletes named OUA All-Stars and 56 student-athletes receiving All-Canadian status. Waterloo has also had over 100 athletes named as Academic All-Canadians since 2000 for achieving an 80% average.
Bertoia will begin his tenure immediately.
