Linebacker Olivier Ruest confirmed his arrival at Laval University's Rouge et Or on Thursday.
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After two seasons with the Western Mustangs, Ruest felt the need to return home. “Even though I wasn’t ready to stop playing football, it was Laval or nothing,” he concluded. I would have quit against my will if things hadn't worked out in Laval. I didn’t look anywhere else.”
“I'm leaving Western to change my surroundings and return home,” continued Ruest, who we joined after training in La Courvilloise, where he was helping the juniors at his alma mater. My home is Quebec and Laval University is in Quebec. I didn't want to play anywhere other than at home in front of my family, and besides, Laval has a great team with a winning culture like Western's.
Although he will begin his studies on Monday, Ruest must honor his compassionate request from U Sports in order to transfer without having to miss a season. With the support of head coach Greg Marshall, the Limoilou Titans team is confident that everything is going well.
Additional motivation
He is extremely excited about his latest decision. “My decision to come to Laval ignites a new flame and motivates me even more,” said Ruest. When I left college, the Rouge et Or recruited me, but I had to leave home. Looking back, I would make the same decision. I had a life experience. At Western, in addition to learning English, I also learned a lot about myself. The first season was difficult because everything was different, but I decided to come back for a second year to finish on a good note.”
In his first season with the Mustangs, Ruest was undressed in the Canadian semifinal against the Rouge et Or. In 2023, he was used primarily on special teams, facing the Université de Montréal Carabins in the Mitchell Bowl at CEPSUM.
Ruest, who has three more years of eligibility and is desperate to reach the CFL, refuses to look too far ahead. “My goal is to take it one day at a time. I want to give 100 percent every day in the training room. With the Rouge et Or I know a lot of players and can find my people again.
Earlier this week, the Rouge et Or announced the arrival of three recruits. Receiver Louis Vincent from East Tennessee State, offensive lineman Frédérick Gouin from the Trois-Rivières Diablos and defensive end Pierre-Luc Dufour from the Griffons de l'Outaouais, who received the title of lineman par excellence in the South – Western Section of Division 3.