VANCOUVER | Failing to be able to encourage the Montreal Alouettes in the Gray Cup final, Quebec Football fans will be able to keep an eye on the work of the match’s chief referee: Benoît Major.
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Aged 51, Major is making his eighth appearance in the Canadian Football League’s ultimate game, but this is the first time he has assumed the role of head referee.
“In football refereeing in Canada, it is the greatest honor you can receive to officiate a Gray Cup final,” Major reacted proudly, as he completed his 19e season as a CFL referee. It’s my greatest accomplishment since the start of my career, without a doubt.”
“For a Quebecer like me, referee André Proulx is the reference,” Major took care to add, paying tribute to his colleague. To be able to follow in his footsteps is huge. Besides, André is also in Vancouver and he is my substitute, if necessary, for the match.
From player to official
It would take a lot for Major to miss this long-awaited match. The Quebecer is also recognized for his endurance on the field since he received, in August 2014, an accidental kick from Kyries Hebert near the left eye during a match between the Alouettes and the Argonauts. That evening, despite a significant laceration, he insisted on returning to the field and finishing his work.
Before being a referee, Major played football up to the university level with McGill. In addition to his work as an official, he is also deputy president and CEO of the Outaouais Integrated Health and Social Services Center (CISSS).
“When I was 19, I dreamed more of a career as a football player,” Major admitted. I eventually became a referee, and to have a role in football like the one I have today, I feel privileged. It’s perhaps even better than playing, because it can last for many years.”
