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Regina Thunder add Carter Gusway and Chris Getzlaf to Coaching Staff

By Scott MacAulay, 01/03/25, 9:30AM MST

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Today, the 2024 PFC Champion Regina Thunder have added Carter Gusway and Chris Getzlaf to their coaching staff. Gusway will join the team as the new offensive coordinator while two-time Grey Cup champion Chris Getzlaf will serve as an offensive consultant for the 2025 season.

For Immediate Release:

Today, the 2024 PFC Champion Regina Thunder have added Carter Gusway and Chris Getzlaf to their coaching staff. Gusway will join the team as the new offensive coordinator while two-time Grey Cup champion Chris Getzlaf will serve as an offensive consultant for the 2025 season.

“Carter Gusway shared his vast experience from both in Europe and the USA last year as our quarterback coach. His coaching expertise lays a great foundation for our offensive game plan for the upcoming season”, said head coach Scott MacAulay. “Chris Getzlaf is a two-time Grey Cup champion, and we are excited to have his leadership and experience in our coaches room and locker room as we pursue a national championship in 2025,”

Offensive Coordinator, Carter Gusway

Carter joined the Thunder in 2024 as our Quarterbacks Coach and quickly proved his ability to innovate and lead. Known for his methodical approach and high football IQ, Carter has excelled on both sides of the ball, making him a versatile and innovative football mind. His ability to break down complex game strategies and maximize player performance has earned him respect at every level he’s coached, from high school to international and collegiate programs. Gusway coached the St. Lawrence University (NCAA) receiving corps to put up record-setting numbers in 2019, with single-season records in pass completions (271) and passing yards (3,301). His extensive coaching background includes experience in North America and Europe:

  • Miller High School: Defensive Backs Coach (2016–2017)
  • St. Lawrence University (NCAA): Defensive Backs Coach (2018), 
  • St. Lawrence University (NCAA): Receivers Coach & Pass Game Coordinator (2019–2021)
  • Neu-Ulm Spartans (Germany): Offensive Coordinator (2022), 
  • Neu-Ulm Spartans (Germany): Associate Head Coach & Offensive Coordinator (2023)
  • Bowdoin College (NCAA): Receivers Coach (2023)
  • Regina Thunder: Quarterbacks Coach (2024)

Carter is a student of the game, spending countless hours analyzing film and developing strategies to maximize player potential. His leadership is underscored by his academic achievements, holding a Bachelor of Kinesiology from the University of Regina and a Master of Educational Leadership and Administration from St. Lawrence University in Canton, New York.

“The Regina Thunder are a climbing franchise in the CJFL continuing its journey as a perennial contender for the Canada Bowl Championship trophy.  We will have an exciting offense this season with a plan to run a balanced attack with a strong run game and a pass attack that can deliver an exciting game day experience for our fans,” said Carter Gusway. “Today marks the first day of work towards building a championship team. I’m looking forward to my collaboration with Coach MacAulay and Getzlaf and all the coaches of this great organization,”

Offensive Consultant, Chris Getzlaf

A two-time Grey Cup Champion and Regina Thunder legend, Chris began his football journey with the Thunder (2001–2004) before playing for the University of Regina Rams (2005–2006) and enjoying an extraordinary 11-year CFL career. During his professional career, Chris amassed nearly 6,200 receiving yards, 41 touchdowns, two-time CFL All-Star, and two Grey Cup championships, earning the title of Most Outstanding Canadian in the 2013 Grey Cup. Known for his exceptional football IQ and leadership on the field, Chris was often described as having a “coach on the field while you play” by his teammates.

Currently working as a Financial Advisor, Chris holds a Business Administration Degree from the University of Regina and resides in Regina with his wife Tia and their three rescue dogs, Griffin, Penny, and Jackson.

“For me, it’s like coming home. I got my start in junior football, and it’s a great opportunity to join this franchise as a coach. I will do my best to bring my experience and knowledge to assist in the development of the young men on this team”, said Chris Getzlaf. “Football is a grind. It takes incredible dedication to the physical and mental aspects of the game, and I look forward to contributing to the journey of winning a championship in this great city of Regina in 2025.”

A Bright Future for Thunder Football

With Carter Gusway’s innovative offensive strategies and Chris Getzlaf’s championship-winning experience, we are poised for an exciting and successful 2025 season and beyond,” added MacAulay, who is heading into his 13th season as Thunder head coach. “The combined expertise of these two outstanding leaders ensures that the Thunder’s offense will deliver a balanced, dynamic game plan to thrill fans and continue our pursuit of excellence. Join us in congratulating Carter Gusway and welcoming Chris Getzlaf back to the Thunder family. The journey to another championship starts now!”.

For all Thunder interviews please contact:

Scott MacAulay
Regina Thunder – Head Coach and General Manager
306.529.9911