Article content continued

Six years ago, he took his pit-bull’s mentality to the president’s chair and clamped his teeth on the front office, the stadium operation and the football operation, shaking them almost beyond recognition.

Then a funny thing happened. He became patient.

Despite two initial seasons that produced a 12-24 record and a third that got off to a 1-4 start, Miller stood pat. And stood pat again despite one playoff victory over the next three years, and plenty of grumbling from the paying customers.

On Tuesday, he’ll cruise down Portage and Main to nothing but cheers, along with the only head coach and GM he’s ever had.

“It’s fantastic,” Miller said. “So proud of what our coach has accomplished and our general manager and the entire organization.”

Tuesday’s parade is a long time coming for Paul LaPolice, too.

He was also amidst the bedlam at McMahon, inviting his Winnipeg-born wife Tina up onto the stage, beaming like it was their wedding day.

LaPolice’s first two go-rounds with the franchise – as an offensive co-ordinator under Dave Ritchie, a head coach under GM Joe Mack – ended badly, but the third time was the charm.

“As somebody who’s worked here three different times… to be able to finally win and be part of breaking the drought, it feels awesome,” Coach LaPo said. “For these players that I spend so much time with, but also for all the people. They’ve been great to me and my family. Outstanding moment.”

Coach LaPo was at his best on Sunday, using every page of his play book: jet-sweeps to Nic Demski to counter the usual healthy dose of Andrew Harris, an 18-yard end-zone shot from backup quarterback Chris Streveler, even a pass from receiver Darvin Adams to Streveler for a first down.