Gary Hinkson (1999) - Hall of Fame - University of Toledo Athletics

Gary Hinkson

Induction:
1999
Class:
1971

Gary Hinkson was a vital member on some of the greatest teams in the history of Rocket football. The 1969, 1970 and 1971 Rockets went an unprecedented 35-0 with three Mid-American Conference Championships and three straight victories in the Tangerine Bowl. Thrust into a starting roll midway through his sophomore campaign, Hinkson finished as the Rockets' all-time leader in career interceptions with 18 (a record which still stands). Hinkson was a tri-captain on the 1971 team and was twice named to the first-team All-MAC squad and was an honorable mention selection his sophomore season. Hinkson also earned honorable mention All-America honors in 1970. During his three years as a stalwart defensive back, the Rockets were the number-one rated defense in the NCAA all three seasons. It was the first time in history that one school had led the country three straight years in total defense. Possibly the greatest game of his career came his junior season vs. Marshall. The Toledo defense held the Thundering Herd to 10 for 46 passing as Hinkson recorded a career high, and then-school record, three interceptions, leading the Rockets to a 52-3 victory (14th of the 35 straight).