It goes far beyond football! Frédéric Chagnon, young father, couldn't be happier to continue his association with the Montreal Alouettes.
The organization officially announced the signing of the versatile Quebecer for next season on Tuesday. Chagnon, 31 years old, wasn't difficult to convince to stay when it came time to close the deal, particularly for family reasons.
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“It makes things a lot easier,” confided Chagnon in an interview with Le Journal, appreciating the stability with his wife and little Renaud, their two-year-old son. I still experienced my first seasons [dans la LCF] in Vancouver and the logistics were a little more complicated on the family side. And now that I have a child, it changes things even more… Just knowing that I can come home after training or home games and help my wife and being close to our son means a lot to me. “
His recent capture of the Gray Cup with a group in which he plays a leadership role, particularly on special teams, obviously didn't dampen his desire to continue with the Alouettes.
“After a championship, it's certainly nice to come back with the team that just won, but for me it's also the fact of being able to stay in Montreal and continue to represent my city,” noted the Montrealer. It's important to play near my family and friends. I'm grateful that I can do this. I'm living my childhood dream of playing professional football, and in Montreal too.
Increased role in 2024?
For general manager Danny Maciocia, the association with Chagnon is no favor.
“Fred is very important for the Alouettes, he is a versatile player for us,” said the GM. We all know that he is capable of dominating special teams, but we must also not forget that he can make good plays on defense when he is called upon to play.
Chagnon excelled at linebacker last season when the Alouettes were hit by numerous injuries at the position.
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“If he continues to progress the way we think he can, we will take advantage of that and I’m sure a coach like Noel Thrope will.” [NDLR : coordonnateur défensif] will give him the opportunity to establish himself on defense, Maciocia added. Fred already ticks a lot of boxes and it's difficult to find players like him. It represents a safe value.”
“He is an athlete who gives us depth and experience and is also one of our leaders on special teams,” emphasized the general manager. He is also someone who is very respected and valued internally in the locker room. He is part of our core that we wanted to keep for next season.
- In addition to announcing Chagnon's signing Tuesday afternoon, the Alouettes also hinted that Alexandre Gagné, nicknamed “Captain Quebec,” will be back in 2024, as will Ontario native Tyrell Richards. Three Christmas presents in advance for special teams coordinator Byron Archambault!