Lions sign Wally Buono to extension through 2018

The BC Lions have inked VP of football operations, GM, and head coach Wally Buono to a contract extension through 2018.

Buono, who hasn't been on the Lions' sideline since 2011, will return in 2016.

"Wally's incredible accomplishments as a coach and football executive are well documented," said president and CEO Dennis Skulsky. "He is among the greatest coaches in the history of our league and he gives us the best opportunity to win a championship. Most importantly, Wally has the respect, belief and trust of our players."

Buono is the CFL's all-time leader in coaching wins with 254. He was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 2014 after a 22-year coaching career in Calgary and BC.

"My sincere thanks go out to David (Braley) and Dennis for the confidence they have shown with this extension," said Buono. "We have a big job ahead of us, but with the coaches, football operations staff, and players we are assembling I believe we will put a product on the field that our fans will want to support."