John Hufnagel of the Calgary Stampeders has been named a finalist for the Annis Stukus Trophy as the Canadian Football League’s coach of the year in 2013.

In his sixth season as head coach and general manager of the Stampeders, Hufnagel guided the Stamps to a league-best 14-4 record. That was the best victory total by a CFL team since 2009 and the best by a West Division team since 2007. The impressive record was accumulated despite the fact injuries forced the Stamps to use three different starting quarterbacks. Calgary was also without key players such as Corey Mace and all-stars Dimitri Tsoumpas and Nik Lewis for extended periods.

The Stamps were either first or second in a number of categories including points scored, points allowed, home record and away record, net offence, rushing yards, sacks and fewest sacks allowed.

In addition to Hufnagel, who won the Annis Stukus Trophy in 2008, this year’s finalists are Kent Austin of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and Corey Chamblin of the Saskatchewan Roughriders.

“I would like to congratulate Kent and Corey for their team’s success in 2013,” said Hufnagel. “They are very deserving candidates for this award and I’m honoured to be included with them in the group of finalists.

“For my part, I would emphasize that this nomination is a reflection of the great work done by the players, coaches and staff of the Stampeders. It is truly a team effort.”

The coach of the year award is voted on by members of the Football Reporters of Canada and the winner will be announced on Feb. 5.