Troy University Athletics
Trio of Trojans Canada Bound
4/15/2010 8:00:00 PM | Football
For college football athletes, the goal is about getting to the next level. Troy has been a program known for preparing athletes for professional football, and a trio of athletes is going to get their shot. Eugene Kinlaw, Chris Bowens and Kenny Mainor inked with the Calgary Stampeders of the Canadian Football League.
"I just want to thank the Lord for providing me with this opportunity," Trojans defensive lineman Eugene Kinlaw said.
Kinlaw played in all 13 games for the Trojans this past season posting 32 tackles and three sacks as part of troy's notably aggressive defensive line. Bowens fled to the scene of the ball from behind Kinlaw at the safety position posting 62 total tackles on the year and also recovered a fumble.
"Playing under Coach Blakeney and Coach Rowell, they did a great job preparing me for the next level," Bowens said. "Coach Rowell helped me sharpen the skills I need at the next level. They continuously helped me to get better. They provided me with what I need to know. They all did a tremendous job."
Kinlaw offered a second to the motion that Troy coaching prepared him for the next step, and he also said his time at Troy has him in great physical shape.
"They helped me in a lot of ways," Kinlaw said. "Coach Shaugnessy does a great job with conditioning here at Troy, and I think that has been a big part of my success. They have kept me focused here and have been a big help to me. I'm going to try and do good things at the next level."
The two are also excited about having familiar faces around although they will be a good distance from home.
"It's good news to hear that we will be playing with each other because we already have that chemistry built up between us," Bowens said. "It's going to be nice to have friends around up there."
The trio will report to Calgary at the end of May, and training camp will begin soon thereafter. The Canadian Football League's season is quickly approaching in July, and the next step will be in full stride for these Trojans.
"To Trojan fans and supporters everywhere," Bowens said. "Thank you for your support, and I'm going to do my best to make you proud."
