MONTREAL - The Montreal Alouettes have rewarded head coach Marc Trestman for his Grey Cup winning campaign by extending his contract through the 2012 season.

"The Alouettes gave me the opportunity not only to be a head coach, but to lead a group of talented, professional players as assembled by our general manager, Jim Popp," said Trestman in a statement. "We have been successful over the last two seasons due to the hard work of our players, coaches and all of our organization's personnel. I am honoured to be a part of this organization and to be so welcomed by its amazing fans."

Under wraps 

The two sides agreed to the extension earlier in the season, however chose not to make a public announcement until after the Grey Cup.

"This is a great day for the Alouettes organization. When gratitude is shown towards a major contributor, it sends a message of commitment," Alouettes' general manager Jim Popp said in a statement.

League's best

Under Trestman the Alouettes have sported a league best 26-10-0 over the past two seasons. He set the franchise mark for most wins in a season this past year with 15 and has led the 'Larks to back-to-back East Division Championships and Grey Cup appearances.

"This contract extension will allow us to continue along the successful path we have been blazing over the last decade with the proven ownership of Bob Wetenhall and move into the future with the kind of continuity that allows our organization to stay at the top of its game for our loyal fans," said team President and CEO Larry Smith.

Offense rolling

The Alouettes offence has flourished under Trestman's leadership. Montreal led the CFL in virtually every offensive category and quarterback Anthony Calvillo was named the league's most outstanding player. While the numbers are more than impressive, the team feels that he brings so much more to the organization.

"Coach Trestman brings to the Alouettes a shared philosophy of excellence and community involvement," said Alouettes' owner Bob Wetenhall in a statement.

"I personally feel it is a privilege to have him associated with the organization as its head coach."

The signing should end the speculation that Trestman was headed back to the NFL where he last served as the offensive coordinator of the Oakland Raiders. There had been talk that he was a candidate to take over head coaching duties of the Buffalo Bills following the firing of Dick Jauron last month.