Dear fans,
With the start of 2021 came mixed emotions: relief that a difficult year had ended, optimism, and hope of a life beyond COVID-19. As the vaccine rollout continues, there are good reasons to feel positive about welcoming you in the stands again this season.
Buoyed by this enthusiasm, we began securing the very first players for our 2021 team in mid-December. As CFL free agency quickly approaches (February 9), a good deal of the work has already been done to form a team as spectacular and competitive as the one we saw in 2019.
At offense, Vernon Adams Jr. restructured his contract to allow the organization to retain other big names like Eugene Lewis and Jake Wieneke and bring back big playmakers like William Stanback. The offensive line is also starting to look rather solid, with the return of Kristian Matte, Tony Washington, and Phillipe Gagnon, who’s stepping back in the nest after a season in Ottawa.
At defense, former NFL first-rounder Datone Jones will come to enhance the defensive line, alongside Antonio Simmons, who will be back for another year. Add to the mix Quebecers David Ménard and Junior Luke, and there’s no doubt that our opponent’s offense will struggle to get through our guys. Other big names were added to the defensive unit, including Greg Reid who repeatedly delivered impressive performances in 2019, and former Carabin Marc-Antoine Dequoy, who is hungrier than ever for his first season in the CFL.
We’re looking at a great deal of talent in this first edition of the 2021 team…A lot of local talent at that. So far, six big players from our province made the cut for the 2021 crew. It’s just the beginning, and it’s looking very promising.
Just like the CFL and the other teams, every department of our organization is working tirelessly to be ready to welcome you in our stadium in the best conditions as soon as we get the green light from the government. We can’t wait to experience incredibly powerful moments with you again! CFL Commissioner Randy Ambrosie spoke about that matter a few days ago, and you can find his message on the CFL’s website (www.cfl.ca)
In the meantime, continue to take care of yourself and of your loved ones, and stay up to date with the latest news on your Alouettes by checking our website and social media. The next few weeks will be action-packed and will give you an even better idea of what your team will look like in 2021. Once again, thank you for your patience and support!
Talk to you soon,
Danny Maciocia Mario Cecchini
General Manager President and CEO
