Photo credit: Mathieu Bélanger
Kicker David Côté was very emotional during last Tuesday’s CFL Draft. After three seasons with the Université Laval Rouge et Or, the 24-year-old will have the chance to play in «Carabins» territory after so many years of intense rivalry with the Rouge et Or.
“I consider myself very lucky to have been able to experience these games at the PEPS de l’Université Laval with amazing supporters. There is such a great atmosphere during our home games, especially against our rivals at the Université de Montréal. But when you get to the professional ranks, the Carabins and Rouge et Or rivalry doesn’t exist anymore. It will be a pleasure to work with my future teammates even though some of us were enemies in university,” says Côté on the phone.
Photo credit: Mathieu Bélanger
The athlete, born and raised in Quebec City, had lots of emotion in his voice when he mentionned that it was the Alouettes who set their sights on him. “I went to see the Alouettes play at McGill Stadium very often when I was younger. It is our province’s team, and being able to wear its uniform means a lot to me and my family. I have the chance to realize a dream and I intend to do everything in my power to achieve it.”
Even though he still has a season of eligibility in university, Côté isn’t really considering this option. He’s going to make every effort to get to camp in top shape to show General Manager Danny Maciocia and Head Coach Khari Jones what he’s capable of.
“I do everything I can to give myself the best chance. I work on my cardio and I do weights regularly. I have a few exams left to get my diploma and after it will be my only focus,” adds Côté, who will graduate with a degree in physical education.
In the past, he chatted with former Alouettes kicker Boris Bede who’s now with the Toronto Argonauts. “Boris gave me some advice. He’s a player with a great career so if I can learn from him, it’s a good thing. He inspires me a lot and it can only be good for me.” Bede, just like Côté, evolved with the Rouge et Or.
An exceptional 2019 season
The kicker had an outstanding season in 2019 as he was named RSEQ Player of the Week on special teams on four occasions, and U SPORTS Player of the Week on special teams once. He successfully executed 24 punts, one less than the RSEQ record held by former Alouette Chris Milo who had made 25 in season.
