“I was very happy! I know that I did some very good things.” – Philippe Gagnon
The Alouettes played their first pre-season game of the year against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on June 8. During the game, many players, including Philippe Gagnon and Jared Koster, made their debut with the Alouettes, while other players like Duron Carter marked their return to the team.
Philippe Gagnon’s first professional game
Philippe Gagnon was quite pleased with his performance against the Blue Bombers. “I was very happy! I know that I did some very good things. Obviously, there are aspects of my game that need work. However, after studying the game film, I believe they are things that are easy to correct,” said the offensive lineman.
Philippe felt like he was on cloud nine when he put on his Alouettes uniform for the first time in Winnipeg. “I still can’t believe it! That being said, I had to keep both feet on the ground and get ready as I normally would, not feeling too much pressure, even though I knew the Winnipeg defensive line was strong. It was really only after the game that I realized I was a member of the Montreal Alouettes,” said the team’s newest recruit.
For the rest of training camp, Philippe wants to continue along the same lines as he did for the first part of camp. “I am approaching the second half of camp just as I did the first half, meaning to be ready each day, to give it my all and to improve as best I can. I also want to learn as much as possible from the coaching staff and to have a spot in the line-up by the end of camp,” Gagnon said.
The Alouettes rookie is also looking forward to play at McGill’s stadium. “I am really excited to get on the field. I’m trying hard not to think too much about it and to concentrate on the task at hand. That being said, as we get closer and closer to the home opener, I’m thinking more and more about it. I know that members of my family as well as a lot of my friends will be there,” said the L’Ancienne-Lorette native.
Jared Koster’s first CFL game
The linebacker’s first CFL game ended with five tackles and a quarterback sack. As the game went on, Koster became more comfortable: “During the game, I knew I was playing well and that really helped me with my confidence on the field,” Koster said.
Jared will devote the second half of training camp to preparing for the second pre-season game. “For the second half of camp, we’ll continue to work on improving upon what we did during the first game. For the second pre-season game at home against Toronto, our fans will see a team that really has the bit between their teeth!” said the linebacker.
The June 17 pre-season game in Montreal is one that Koster circled on his calendar. “I am really looking forward to the game. I feel honoured to be part of the Alouettes. Montreal is a beautiful city and our fans are incredible. It’s a great situation!” said Koster.
Duron Carter’s return to the Alouettes
The game against Winnipeg was Duron’s first since returning to the Alouettes and after the game, he confirmed that pre-season games are a way to get ready for the regular season. “We’re always learning and working to get better during pre-season games so that we are ready for the regular season.”
Duron is looking forward to his return to McGill’s stadium. “I’m really excited to play again in Montreal before my friends and fans on June 17. And I am also happy to put on an Alouettes jersey with my old number!” said the Alouettes’ wide receiver.
Carter sees only positives for 2016: “It’s going to be a very good season for us. We have a great team, the best in the CFL. We want to win the Grey Cup this year.”
See the Alouettes in action on June 17 when they play their final pre-season game before the regular season begins!
