Argos Lose Steinauer to Rival Ticats

HAMILTON – The Hamilton Tiger-Cats have announced the hiring of Orlondo Steinauer as the team’s new Defensive Coordinator.

Steinauer had spent the past three seasons serving as the defensive backs coach for the Toronto Argonauts. Steinauer guided a revamped Argonauts secondary to a Grey Cup title in 2012. He also witnessed cornerback Patrick Watkins flourish in his first CFL season, resulting in a CFL all-star selection. Steinauer’s secondary recorded the second-most interceptions in 2012 (24) and held opponents to just a 58.8 completion percentage.

“Orlondo is a bright and talented coach that exudes both confidence and a high level of competence, especially in developing and preparing the secondary. His positive approach to coaching, his endearing personality, and his natural leadership abilities will help create an atmosphere for players to produce and enjoy success,” commented Tiger-Cats Vice President of Football Operations, General Manager, and Head Coach Kent Austin.

In his three-year tenure in Toronto, Steinauer guided five defensive backs to the East Division All-Star team including two that were named to the CFL All-Star squad.

As a player, Steinauer suited up for both Hamilton (1997-2000) and Toronto (2001-2008) in his thirteen-year CFL career. He earned five CFL all-star selections and two Grey Cup titles including Hamilton’s most recent championship in 1999.

Steinauer will certainly be missed as the Argonauts continue to adjust their Grey Cup Championship secondary. The Argonauts’ have already lost DB Ahmad Carroll to retirement and their defence may experience more change when CFL Free Agency begins on February 15.

– Daniele Franceschi –