The Toronto Argonauts are preparing for Sundays East final and a Grey Cup run while former head coach Don Matthews wages a different battle away from the Canadian game.

Through the Canadian Football League team, Matthews announced Monday that doctors have found cancer cells in his lymph nodes and that he continues seeking medical advice.

Ive got this and Im dealing with this, the second-winningest head coach in CFL history said in a statement. I want everyone to know I plan to fight like hell and I intend to be playing golf at this time next year.

Earlier this year Matthews, 73, had to decline an invite to participate in the 100th Grey Cup Festival in Toronto later this month.

I wish everyone well as the 100th Grey Cup is celebrated, Matthews said, and am sorry I will not be there with all of you as I focus, with my wife Stephanie, on my immediate battle off the field.

In 2006, Matthews resigned as Montreal Alouettes head coach, citing anxiety-related issues, but resurfaced in 2008 with the Argonauts as he took over from fired head coach Rich Stubler.

Matthews ended his third stint with Toronto on Oct. 31, 2008, following an eighth consecutive loss.

He appeared at Alouettes training camp in the summer as a guest coach, assisting with the defence and special teams but said he wasnt missing the game.

I dont miss this to be honest. I gave so much of my life to it, Matthews, who is tied for the league record with five Grey Cup victories and nine appearances, told the Gazette newspaper in Montreal in June. I missed my [three] children growing up. My family gives me a chance to enjoy things I couldnt because of coaching.

Ive put this [football] life in my past."

Link:
CFL coaching great Don Matthews has cancer