January 3, 2013

Steinauer named Ticats’ new Defensive Coordinator

Adam Gagnon/CFL.ca

Ticats.ca Staff

HAMILTON — Hamilton Tiger-Cats Vice President of Football Operations, General Manager and Head Coach Kent Austin continued to shape his coaching staff today by naming former Tiger-Cat Orlondo Steinauer the team’s new Defensive Coordinator.

Steinauer has served as defensive backs coach with the Toronto Argonauts for the past three seasons, helping the Argos win the Grey Cup championship last season while guiding a stingy secondary that allowed opponents to complete just 58.8% of their passes – best in the CFL.  The Argos also registered the second-most interceptions (24) and surrendered the second-fewest passing touchdowns (27) in 2012.  

Steinauer was promoted to defensive coordinator in August of 2011, leading Toronto’s ‘D’ for 12 weeks before returning to the club as defensive backs coach last year.

“Orlondo is a bright and talented coach that exudes both confidence and a high level of competence, especially in developing and preparing the secondary,” said Austin.  “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.”

During Steinauer’s three-year tenure, the Argos placed five defensive backs on the East Division All-Star team and two on the CFL All-Star team, including first-year cornerback Pat Watkins last season.  

As a player, Steinauer suited up for 13 seasons with Ottawa (1996), Hamilton (1997-2000) and Toronto (2001-08), earning six East All-Star nods, five CFL All-Star honours and captured two Grey Cups including the Ticats most recent championship in 1999.