Ever wondered what happened to some of your favorite Alouettes cheerleaders? In our “Once a Cheer, Always a Cheer” series, we catch up with our former cheerleaders to see what they’re up to now!
This week, we spoke with Anne-Geneviève, who was part of our cheer squad from 2013 to 2017!
What have you been up to since your time with the Alouettes, and where are you now?
During my last season with the team in 2017, I was finishing my studies at the Quebec Bar School. I then did my practical training before being admitted to the Bar as a lawyer. I now practice in the Riendeau Avocats law firm and concentrate my practice in criminal and penal law.
Since my arrival, we’ve set up a penal law department focused on the Highway Safety Code (MTL Ticket) and I am responsible for this division. I juggle between criminal offense cases and driving ticket files. I’m also involved in the community, namely with the Criminal Defence Lawyers Association and with the NeuroTrauma Marie-Robert Foundation, where I hold a position of administrator on the board of directors. I also continued teaching dance at the Corinne Desfossés Dance studio because I simply couldn’t leave my passion behind.
What are some of your favorite memories as a cheerleader for the Alouettes?
My first game, without a doubt! My very first time running onto the field and forming the honor row for the player presentation is a moment I’ll never forget. I had chills! I think that I relived that feeling at the beginning of every season and whenever we had games during the evening. There’s something very special about Percival Molson Stadium’s lighting at night.
What’s your funniest anecdote?
When we dance on the sidelines, we are very close to the field, and can easily step onto the grass if we don’t pay attention. I remember this specific game where my cheer squad was in the northeast corner of the end zone. You know, when a receiver catches the ball in the end zone, he doesn’t pay attention to his surroundings; He’s focused on the ball. So when you notice that he’s running towards you, you better get out of the way. Fast! I still thank Annie for always reminding us to keep our eyes on the game at all times!
What’s a lesson you learned during your time with the Alouettes?
I developed the need to constantly raise the bar and learned the importance of being surrounded by people who are going to be there for you no matter what. I would not have been able to get through my bachelor’s degree and the Bar without my teams’ support. Each practice and each game were a way for me to clear my mind and have fun after long days of studying. It made me realize that we can all make an impact on the community; Even the smallest actions can generate a lot of happiness. Visiting sick children in hospitals is a memory I’ll cherish forever.
