Two days after winning the Gray Cup, the eighth in Alouettes history, the players had not yet come down from their cloud. When they win, it’s because of their performance on the field, but also because of the team spirit and camaraderie that exists in the locker room.
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The season hadn’t even started when soccer observers and fans across Canada were predicting a very difficult year. However, the atmosphere in the nest suggested a different outcome.
Week after week, The Sparrows showed what they were made of by making their critics lie. Obviously, not everything was perfect heading into the 2023 season, which ended with a record of eleven wins and seven losses, including some bitter ones. Especially against the same Winnipeg Blue Bombers who beat them on Sunday with that spectacular fourth quarter comeback.
Without a united team, this crazy adventure would never have happened.
Unique culture
The executives and head coach Jason Maas have established a solid culture while respecting the Quebec market. So, from the first encounters, each of the players introduced themselves in French and then showed openness to immerse themselves in their reality, while ten Quebecers lined up in this victorious formation.
“This team is unparalleled in the Canadian league,” said California linebacker Darnell Sankey. Nothing beats the market and French-speaking culture of Montreal and Quebec. We always felt welcomed with open arms. This team was like a family.”
Photo agency QMI, JOEL LEMAY
“We are a nice mix of different cultures in this locker room. “There is a real camaraderie that has helped us through the tougher times of the season,” added receiver Tyson Philpot, author of the winning touchdown.
“It was a surreal moment. “This catch and final sequence are historic,” added the man who held that famous ball.
Tyson Philpot makes the game-winning touchdown catch with 13 seconds left in the Gray Cup game against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, Nov. 19, 2023. USA TODAY Sports via Portal Con
General observation
In return, the players presented at the Alouettes’ season report, with smiles on their faces and sometimes with features marked by the lack of sleep due to the celebrations, praised the coaches’ philosophy and praised the achievements of their teammates. .
Quarterback Cody Fajardo faced criticism from all sides after three seasons in Saskatchewan and thanked general manager Danny Maciocia for his trust by giving him a two-year contract.
At one of the biggest stages of his career, the 31-year-old American quarterback delivered one of his best performances.
In the whirlwind 36 hours after the victory, he could recount everything that was going through his mind and every inch he gained in that final push on the field.
Photo agency QMI, JOEL LEMAY
Who stays?
With the game decisions Maas made, he knew that victory was the only option.
“Everyone performed brilliantly at the right time. We are champions and we silence the critics,” he said with a smile.
Now he knows he can get through this offseason with more peace of mind.
However, with one year left on his contract, he could see some of his teammates leave the nest.
Shawn Lemon, the defensive end who made a splash under the Als colors, finds himself as a free agent. He would like to return next season, he said he was very happy to play under Noel Thorpe.
Photo Martin Chevalier
If no NFL team keeps an eye on him, Stankey also hopes to return to Montreal.
“That option is definitely on the table,” he added. I love this team and this organization. We are winners.”
According to many, the foundations are well laid for a club that can dominate future seasons. Add in that playoff experience and capturing the Gray Cup, and the future seems bright.
parade
Despite the bad weather and the forecast cocktail of weather, the Alouettes will parade on Boulevard De Maisonneuve on Wednesday from around 11:30 a.m.
This will be the first parade celebrating a professional sporting achievement in the streets of Montreal since 2010. Anthony Calvillo and Ben Cahoon, to name a few, carried the precious trophy with them back then.
The parade stretches from west to east, from Crescent Street to Place des Festivals.
“I’m really looking forward to seeing it tomorrow. The outpouring of love that has come since winning is incredible. In Quebec we are proud of our teams. I remember the Canadian in the Stanley Cup final two years ago,” said Marc-Antoine Dequoy.
“It will show us the extent of what we have achieved, because I am not yet aware of it,” added kicker David Côté.
The route of the parade of Gray Cup champions, which will take place on November 22, 2023. Photo screenshot Le Journal de Montréal – November 21, 2023 issue