York University head football coach Warren Craney announced on Tuesday that special teams coordinator Jesse Alexander has stepped down from his role with the Lions to take on a new position.
 
Alexander joined the Lions last year and spent the 2017 season leading special teams and coaching the linebackers. The 11-year OUA veteran, who spent 10 seasons coaching with the Laurier Golden Hawks after a five-year playing career with the same team, will continue his coaching career in the conference as the new defensive coordinator for the Windsor Lancers.
 
The Lions will immediately begin looking for a new full-time coach to join the staff for the 2018 season. Craney has his sights set on hiring an assistant offensive coordinator who will also be responsible for coaching the offensive line.
 
"Jesse is a tremendous coach who did a great job with our players this past season and I am thrilled for him that he has taken the next step in his career. We wish him all the best in his new role and look forward to coaching against him when the Lions face the Lancers next season," said Craney. "We are also looking ahead to our 2018 season and are excited about the opportunity to add someone new to our coaching staff to work closely with our extremely talented offensive players."
 
The new coach will join the Lions on the sidelines for the first time in late August when the squad welcomes the Queen's Gaels to Alumni Stadium for the 2018 season opener.