However, with a career path similar in every way to that of David Côté, Samuel Tremblay chose the NCAA rather than continuing his career in the Quebec university network, as the Montreal Alouettes kicker did.
Like Côté, Tremblay wore the colors of the Arsenal de l'Académie Saint-Louis in the school ranks and the CNDF in the college ranks and also played at a high level as a soccer goalkeeper for several years.
“Ten years apart, it’s funny to see that we’ve taken the same path,” said Tremblay, who even attended the same elementary school as Côté. I have been considering the United States option for several years and have attended camps south of the border with my father for the past two summers.
During his college career, Côté also attended several camps in hopes of earning a Division 1 offer before joining Laval University's Rouge et Or.
The Maine Black Bears invited Tremblay on an unofficial visit this summer, where he hit a 55-yard field goal during camp. The Black Bears paid him an official visit in early December after extending him a scholarship offer two weeks earlier. The UConn Huskies offered him a guest spot two years ago, but the financial risks are significant if you accept.
“I went to Maine with my parents and really enjoyed my visit,” he said. When I returned, it took me a few days of reflection before I decided that Maine was my place. The NCAA was not a goal because I could have developed very well by staying in Quebec. I really liked the very human approach of the trainers.”
Photo courtesy of the University of Maine
Before making his choice, Tremblay spoke with Côté, who was his coach last year. “I wanted to get an outside opinion and David thought it was a good option,” he said. A few days later I made my choice.”
Options in Quebec and Canada
With the exception of Laval University Rouge et Or, which has three kickers, including Vincent Blanchard, who could make the jump to the CFL, the four other RSEQ teams have recruited Tremblay as well as Bishop's, Queen's, Carleton and UBC.
Maine plays in the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA). “If I dress well in my first season, I could play in a conference game against Oklahoma,” he said. Games against Boston College and Georgia Tech are also scheduled for the coming seasons. I will have the opportunity to play big games and prove myself against great players. There are veterans returning, but I will have the opportunity to fight for a position. When I’m the best, I do all three types of kicks.”
“Since Laval had not recruited me, I had already gotten used to the idea of leaving the house and it is reassuring to be just 4.5 hours away to pursue Tremblay, who will make his university debut in administration in January “I will have the opportunity to play excellent football and have an exceptional experience.
Two transfers
The Black Bears signed two Quebecers last year, but center back Rohan Jones and tackle Dorian Royal entered the transfer portal. Jones caught 22 passes for 240 yards and five touchdowns, earning him selection to the CAA 3rd All-Star team. He has since received an offer from Montana State.
As for Joyal, he has only played three games this year compared to nine in 2021 and 2022.