After a brilliant time with the University of Laval's Rouge et Or, defensive back Maxym Lavallée is now plunging into the world of professional football.
The 25-year-old signed with the Montreal Alouettes, who signed him in the eighth round of the 2023 Canadian Football League (CFL) auction.
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However, Lavallée will not be looking to break into the “Als” lineup as a rookie in 2024. He will actually take part in his second training camp with the team, having been present in Trois-Rivières last year.
“I enjoyed my experience so much and can’t wait to go back,” says Lavallée. I already have my training plan for this winter, so I can be ready.”
The footballer has thought of everything: his gym routine, his training partners and his diet. He even started a flag football league to continue competing on the field.
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His “plan” was also developed based on what he observed during his time with the team in 2023.
“I learned a lot, especially what I had to work on to make my place in the league. That’s what I focused on this season in Laval and I’ll continue that throughout the winter.”
Lavallée felt he needed to improve his footwork if he wanted to make it to the pros. This became particularly clear to him when he watched defender Wesley Sutton.
“I saw him running and thought, 'Wow, he's so smooth and fast.' I realized I could do better and put in even more effort to become a more complete player.”
Do more
You will have understood that Lavallée is the type who always does more than the customer asks.
When the Alouettes decided to reinstate him to the RSEQ after two preseason games, the Gatineau native received good comments from the staff and points to work on.
“They noticed that I had a good presence on the field and wasn't afraid to communicate with my teammates. They also talked about the progress I needed to make on the technical side, which confirmed my observation.
However, Lavallée wanted more.
“I reached out to the coaches who didn’t attend that meeting just to get their thoughts. I wanted to learn more to improve.”
This is the kind of initiative and attitude that by no means goes unnoticed.