On the sidelines since the East-West Challenge last May when a head tackle put him out of action, receiver Édouard Arsenault will make his comeback on Sunday against the McGill Redbirds.
Arsenault knew his injury was serious. He was taken to hospital in Waterloo. “I knew it was serious, but not that serious. In an event like that (all-star game), it was a useless gesture especially since I was already covered by two players when a third hit me in the head.
The 4th year slot back has been training with his teammates for a few weeks now and he left behind his black jersey which meant he couldn’t have contact since Tuesday.
“I’m looking forward to playing this first game,” said Arsenault, who caught 28 passes for 420 yards and three touchdowns in 2023. “I find myself in an ideal environment for this return. I always believed in my chances of returning to the game this season. I stayed positive and good things happened.”
No fear
The product of the Saint-Jean-sur-le-Richelieu Giants assures that he will not be in any way afraid when he jumps on the field to face the Redbirds. “If I’m back, it’s because there’s no fear,” he explained. I got the green light from all the medical stakeholders. I can’t wait to catch my first pass. My injury made me realize that we have to appreciate every moment, even a block that doesn’t tempt.”
For his return to play, Arsenault will not occupy a starting position. “The guys are doing well and there is no question of changing everything for me,” he said. It will be a gradual return. Justin (Éthier) does an incredible job of getting everyone involved. Everyone contributes whereas it was more individual last year.”
Stressed about playing a first match? “There is no pressure,” he said. I find myself with a big gang of friends and we’re going to have fun practicing a sport that I love.”
During his absence, Arsenault remained close to the team. “I was helping out the coaches on the bench and my teammates. The hardest part was missing the home games.”
