Barron Miles retires as CFL player

Barron Miles is hanging up his helmet and picking up a clipboard and whistle.

The B.C. Lions veteran safety announced his retirement Monday to become the Canadian Football League team's defensive backs coach.

"I am very pleased to have Barron join the Lions coaching staff for the 2010 season as well as adding his talents to our scouting department," Lions general manager and head coach Wally Buono said in a statement.

"As one of the finest defensive backs to ever play in this league, Barron's career speaks for itself and I look forward to adding his leadership to our staff in 2010."

Miles spent 12 seasons in the CFL and was the league's outstanding rookie in 1998. He ranked first in league history in blocked kicks (13) and second overall in interceptions (66) in 189 career games.

Miles finished his career on a high note, registering a league-leading eight interceptions and being named a CFL all-star for the sixth time. He spent the first seven seasons of his career with Montreal before joining the Lions.

'New perspective'

The Lions also announced that Jacques Chapdelaine would serve as the club's offensive co-ordinator as well as quarterbacks coach.

Chapdelaine assumed the co-ordinator's job from Dan Dorazio, who will remain as the offensive line coach.

Former CFL receiver Travis Moore joins the Lions staff as receivers coach after spending last season as Hamilton's running backs coach. Chuck McMann returns as special teams co-ordinator and running backs coach.

"We are fortunate to add Travis to our staff at this time," said Buono. "He was very highly respected during his stay in Hamilton and he will bring a new perspective to our offence."

Moore spent 11 seasons in the CFL, amassing 645 catches for 9,930 yards and 79 touchdowns with the Calgary Stampeders (1994, 1996-2002) and Saskatchewan Roughriders (2003-05).

Defensive co-ordinator and linebackers coach Mike Benevides and secondary coach Mark Washington return for their third seasons in their current roles.