Hinse, from Edmonton, and Rottier, who is originally from Westlock, Alta., played together on the Bearsβ O-Line between the 2007 and 2009 seasons before both getting drafted in the 2009 CFL draft. Rottier made Golden Bearsβ history when he was selected first overall in the draft by the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. The 6β6β Rottier was with the Ti-Cats from 2009-2011 and then signed a free-agent contract with his hometown Eskimos. Hinse, who recently graduated from the Faculty of Native Studies at the U of A, was drafted in the second round by the Eskimos, just 10 spots after Rottier.
The two linemen forged a close friendship during their time with the U of Aβs Green and Gold gridiron squad, a relationship that they maintained despite being separated by two provinces.
Along with their former U of A offensive line coach Tim Prinsen, who now handles the same duties with the Eskimos, the βpower-trioβ, as Hinse has coined them, has been reestablished.
Theyβre not the only former Golden Bearsβ on the Eskimos, or in the CFL either.
Former multiple time CIS All-Canadian kicker Hugh OβNeill remains with the defending Grey Cup champion BC Lions.
Dale Stevenson, who played numerous positions for the Golden Bearsβ during his five-year CIS career, is transitioning to the offensive line with the Eskimos, which makes it four former Bears involved in the Eskimo o-line, although Stevenson will start the season on the injured-reserve. Also with the Eskimos are former coach Terry Eisler, who works with Edmontonβs special teams, as well as graduates, and former Dr. Joan Matthews-White pupils, Denzil Ottley and Brennan Mahon, who both serve in the physio/trainer areas with the Eskimos. Veteran defensive back Brent Krawchuk works with the Eskimosβ equipment staff as well.
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