The Winnipeg Blue Bombers announced today that they have relieved head coach Paul LaPolice from his duties. Defensive Coordinator Tim Burke will take over the head coaching duties effective immediately.

“This was an extremely difficult decision to make especially when dealing with such a quality individual as Paul is,” stated Blue Bombers Vice President and General Manager of Football Operations Joe Mack. “As the season has progressed, and looking back on how we struggled throughout the second half of the year in 2011, we have become increasingly concerned with the direction of our Club and felt this was in the best interest of our entire organization. Our commitment to winning hasn't changed and this decision was made in order to get our team back on track."

Paul LaPolice was named the 28th head coach in franchise history on February 5, 2010.