It was the worst kept secret in the province, but Eric Tillman was officially named the Riders GM.

 

from saskriders.com

 

Saskatchewan Roughrider President/CEO Jim Hopson announced today Eric Tillman has signed a new deal to become the General Manager/Vice President of Football Operations with the club through 2009.

“I am very pleased that we were able to bring Eric to Saskatchewan,” stated Riders President/CEO Jim Hopson. “He brings the club a wealth of CFL experience having been involved with this league for more than 15 years. After speaking and spending time with Eric I am fully confident in his ability to guide this team to a Grey Cup championship.”

Tillman started his CFL career with the Montreal Concordes in 1982 as Director of Player Personnel. In 1993, Tillman accepted his first General Manager position with the struggling B.C. Lions, which he turned into Grey Cup champions in year two. His next GM position was with the Toronto Argonauts where he won another Grey Cup in 1997.

In his most recent General Manager role in the CFL, Tillman worked with the Ottawa Renegades prior to heading into broadcasting where he has been working with CBC and Sportsnet as a television analyst for the CFL.

“This is a special day for our family,” stated Tillman. “On a personal basis, we are very much looking forward to being part of this community. I am delighted to be afforded this opportunity. Saskatchewan is a special place with the best football fans in the country. As such, I understand the magnitude of this responsibility.

"I am very much looking forward to being part of a collective effort with Jim and Danny as we pursue our goal of bringing championship football back to this province and the people that so richly deserves it. On a personal basis, Francine and I couldn’t be happier. This is a wonderful place to raise children and we are excited to move here and make Regina our home.”