The Rouge et Or thanks its loyal supporters

During a historic year that saw more than 100,000 spectators attend the PEPS in six games, the Rouge et Or of Laval University held a fan recognition activity for the first time.

All the players and coaches were present for photo and autograph sessions as was the Vanier Cup and the mascot Victor. Ticket office managers were present as were employees of the souvenir shop who sold merchandise celebrating the winning of the national title.

Before showing up for 5 a 7, the Rouge et Or captains ate poutine in the Cup and all the players were treated to a portion courtesy of a team sponsor.

“It was important that we gave fans the chance to meet the players,” said Director of Sports Activities Services Julie Dionne. We set up a committee three weeks ago to prepare the event in the event that the Rouge et Or won the Vanier Cup without talking to the coaches.”

If the several hundred supporters present appreciated the initiative, the same goes for the players. “It was really important to say thank you to the fans,” said co-captain Ian Leroux. People are grateful and they have an incredible sense of belonging. This is not the case elsewhere as we saw in Regina and Queen’s.”

“It warms my heart to participate in such an activity,” added the long discount specialist. You see the people at the stadium, but it’s fun to see their faces and interact with them.”

Jean-Antoine Dean-Rios was in the same direction. “It’s fun to interact with the fans and I would like to thank them more often,” said the guard. The fans make the difference.”

Satisfied veterans

With the Rouge et Or for six years due to the 2020 season canceled due to the pandemic, Leroux and Dean-Rios have experienced the ups and downs of their cohort. They leave as champions with a second Vanier Cup.

“There were difficult years, especially the 2021 season, but it was a life lesson,” Leroux said. In Laval, you will be champion one day if you persevere and put in the necessary effort. “It’s a privilege to be able to leave with a victory at the Vanier Cup and to have practically completed my master’s degree in physiotherapy before trying my luck in the CFL.”

“I’m living the dream”

Four days after lifting the Vanier Cup, Dean-Rios is still floating on cloud nine. “I’m living the dream,” summed up the 6’5” and 300-pound guy. I leave as a champion. I couldn’t ask for better.”

“I’m going to have a pang in my heart when I empty my locker in a few weeks, but I’m not thinking about it at the moment,” says the product of the Notre-Dame-de-Foy Campus. For now, it’s time to celebrate. We are the guests of honor wherever we go. We are blessed and lucky to experience all of this.”