Last week marked the beginning of the first professional training camp for offensive lineman Philippe Gagnon. With his sights set on a spot in the line-up, the Alouettes’ first choice in the 2016 CFL draft has an opportunity to show off his skills to the coaching staff during camp as well as the two upcoming pre-season games.
He feels privileged to be attending his first CFL training camp. “I am very happy to be here. I have always had a very competitive nature, and I would like to have a spot on the team, even though the calibre of play is better when compared to the university level. As well, the playbook and the techniques are not the same, so there is a lot of learning that I have to do in a short period of time. It’s really a terrific challenge!” said Gagnon.
The 311 pound player immediately saw the big differences between the university level and the professional level. “Everything is very fast. The speed of the game and the players are not the same as in university. It is all much quicker! We also have to learn the playbook and adjust to any corrections that the coaching staff give us. Fortunately, I have been able to get help from the veterans who have the best interests of the team at heart. And the other linemen like Kristian Matte and Phillip Blake have been able to answer my questions,” said Gagnon, a former guard at the Université Laval.
On the eve of the first pre-season game, the offensive linemen have been working hard to get ready. “Our preparation for the game is similar to that of the other players. However, we had three days during which our coach, Kris Sweet, worked on our blocking techniques as well as making sure we knew what our assignments were. Our preparation has included watching a lot of film and studying the playbook,” said Gagnon, originally from L’Ancienne-Lorette.
When the Alouettes take on the Blue Bombers in Winnipeg, the team’s new guard will be ready. “When the time comes, I will find out what my responsibilites are and I will play to the best of my potential. I want to be in a good frame of mind and to continue to learn and improve. I’m also very excited as this is my first game in the league and I’ll be happy to make some plays. I’m really looking forward to it!” said Gagnon.
See the Alouettes in action on June 17 when they play their last preseason game before the regular season starts
