Vaughan Mitchell has been named the Canada West nominee for the Gino Fracas Award for the outstanding support he provides to both the Manitoba Bisons players and fellow coaching staff. 

Mitchell, a Bisons alum himself, has worked in a variety of volunteer capacities for the team, first as the offensive line coach in 1997, before transitioning to offensive coordinator. He has worked with the team's running backs, before taking on extra responsibility as the run game and protections coordinator. 

After taking a season off to focus on family, Vaughan returned to the Bisons in 2018 as an offensive consultant. In 2019, Vaughan began his third stint as offensive coordinator. 

The Gino Fracas Award is presented by Football Canada annually to recognize the assistant coaches that provide endless hours to improve the experience for the players while providing support to other coaches. This award recognizes the key role that assistant coaches play in football, as they are instrumental to the success of programs across the country. 

Mitchell is the quintessential example of this.

"This is Vaughan's third consecutive nomination for the prestigious Gino Fracas Award, and so deserving," said head coach Brian Dobie.

"As our offensive coordinator, Vaughan has been with me for almost the entirety of my 28 years at Manitoba. I can only thank him and express my utmost gratitude for his tireless, non-stop work and commitment to Bison football. The quality of his work and dedication to our players speaks for itself."

"But, in particular, I'd be remiss if I didn't thank Vaughan's wife Jennifer, and his sons Ben and AJ for their patience and understanding, and for 'lending' their husband and dad for the countless volunteer months, weeks and hours that he spends away from his family. Congratulations Vaughan."