The University of Regina Rams and University of Calgary Dinos faced off in the Dinos annual Kick Off to signify the start of the school year. Calgary were the victors after a 46-26 decision, but the game had a little bit more meaning to some former Cochrane High Cobras alumni.
The two teams have a combined seven former Cobras on their rosters, receivers Kyle Moortgat, Adam Rask and fifth-year defensive tackle Bryce Mckinnon all suited up for the Rams, while receivers Erik Nusl and Zach Rabe, running back Kane Boklaschuk, and defensive end Dylan Gingrich-Hadley are all in their first or second year with the Dinos, but did not play on Friday evening.
For Moortgat and Rask this was their first time suiting up in a USports game in front of their friends and family. Moortgat also scored his second career touchdown, which is something he’ll remember for a long time.
“It was an amazing feeling, and honestly I can’t find the words to describe how much it meant to me. I was just very excited that my friends and family were not only able to see me play, but score, which I’m sure made them happy as well.”
Rask, who was starting in his first game at the university level, reiterated how much it meant to him to be able to play in front of his friends and family.
“It was exciting to say the least. I haven’t played in front of most of my friends and family since high school, so it was good to see some familiar faces that included some teachers and coaches from Cochrane High.” Rask said.
As for Mckinnon, this could potentially be the last time he’ll play in his hometown. The Rams didn’t come away with the win, but Mckinnon said the trip home is always special regardless of the outcome.
“It was a rough loss for sure.” Mckinnon said. “But it’s early in the year and we’ll see them (Calgary) at home later on in the season. But it’s always special to come back to Calgary and be able to play in front of everyone, especially since this was the first time we’ve came here in a couple years.”
All three former Cobras also agreed that having seven members on both squads speaks volumes about the type of program Cochrane High has built up over the years.
“It’s awesome having so many former Cobras playing, especially when we get to play each other, makes the game a little more fun.” Moortgat said. “I think it says a lot about Cochrane’s program because for several years they have had players move on to play university football, so it just goes to show that they have a strong program in developing players to play at the next level.”
In the game, Moortgat finished with seven catches for 78 yards and a touchdown, while Rask registered one catch for nine yards and a tackle. Mckinnon also finished the game with a tackle.
