Talent
On the defensive side of the ball, defensive backs Rich Fowlstone and Damony Simmonds kept the opponent’s receivers busy all season. These two were a force to be reckoned with. With a combined 65 solo tackles and six interceptions between the two of them, they kept the opponent’s gains to a minimum. Dan Federkeil was dominant on the defensive line, he consistently made the opposing quarterbacks eat turf, racking up an astounding 41 solo tackles defending the running game.
Offensively, Joel Ford was the man of the season. This was Ford’s first full year as a starting player and he proved to everyone that he belongs there. This quiet second-year slot back had an outstanding year statistically. In eight regular season games, he amassed 44 receptions for 697 yards and four touchdowns, placing him third in CIS for receiving.
The Dinos also had two offensive linemen selected to the first and second All-Canadian teams. Rich Yalowsky and Evan Haney, first and second team respectively, were given the nod by CIS voters in late November. Both had outstanding seasons establishing the line of scrimmage, opening holes for the running backs and providing ample time for quarterback Charles Guedo to deliver the ball.
Effort
This team played every game as if it were their last and though they had their set backs, they never lost their optimism. The team played through pain, debilitating injuries, coaching changes, extreme weather and unfair refereeing. No matter how bad the game looked they kept on playing with determination and class. There are many decent teams in Canada West that will come back if you let them. This team tried their best to show the west that they were one of the best. Extra effort and pride is what puts points on the board.
Coaching
Head Coach Tony Fasano gave fans another consistent year, showing great performance on the defensive side of the ball. The offensive receivers thrived on the guidance provided by returning coach Dennis Holowaychuk and the offensive line flourished under the leadership provided by Rohn Meyer. Unfortunately, overall the offensive coaching lacked creativity. The offensive play calling was far too predictable for the Dinos to achieve their full potential.
Achievements
Although the Dinos lost in the first round of playoffs to the University of Alberta Golden Bears, it took a lot of grit and determination to make it there. They did manage to knock the Bears out of their first place national standing earlier in the season. The memorable game in Edmonton Oct. 2 is a game no Dinos fan will soon forget. With the majority of starters returning on both sides of the ball, the Dinos should be in a good position for a run at the Vanier Cup next year.
Overall: B+
Singer/Band: 2Pac. Because they play with pride, but certain “changes” need to be made.