Marc Fortier, defensive coordinator for Laval University’s Rouge et Or, led the team to a thrilling 22-17 victory over Queen’s University, securing their 12th Vanier Cup. The defense limited the Golden Hawks to 296 yards, while kicker Felipe Forteza set a U Sports record with six field goals. Key contributions came from quarterback Arnaud Desjardins and rookies Loïc Brodeur and Natan Charon. Fortier’s leadership was pivotal in this memorable triumph, celebrated with a promised fur coat.
A Memorable Triumph in Kingston
In an extraordinary display of skill and determination, Marc Fortier, the defensive coordinator for the Rouge et Or from Laval University, returned from Kingston with the prestigious Vanier Cup and a stylish fur coat. The team clinched a thrilling 22-17 victory at Queen’s University, showcasing their defensive prowess against the formidable Golden Hawks and their star quarterback, Taylor Elgersma. This triumph marked the 12th Vanier Cup for the most celebrated program in Canadian university football.
Defensive Strategy and Key Contributions
The Rouge et Or’s defense proved to be a formidable force, limiting the Golden Hawks to just 296 total yards. Kicker Felipe Forteza shone brightly, setting a U Sports record with six field goals and earning the Ted Morris trophy for the most valuable player. Meanwhile, quarterback Arnaud Desjardins also excelled, garnering the Bruce Coulter trophy with an impressive 320 passing yards.
“This was the toughest offense we’ve faced in a long time,” remarked Fortier. “It was a tremendous team effort, and I couldn’t be prouder of how the guys rose to the occasion. Although I felt the pressure, I always believed in their ability to win their individual matchups.”
Head coach Glen Constantin echoed Fortier’s sentiments, acknowledging the challenge posed by the Golden Hawks’ talented quarterback and receiver corps. “This was Marc’s biggest challenge to date,” he said.
Even in his final game at the university level, veteran hybrid linebacker Francis Bouchard expressed his admiration for Fortier’s coaching intensity, remarking, “I’ve never encountered a coach as passionate as Marc. The defense truly embodies his coaching style.”
With the Golden Hawks having previously executed 19 plays of over 20 yards in their playoff run, the Rouge et Or aimed to curtail these explosive plays. Fortier acknowledged, “We allowed two explosive plays that resulted in touchdowns. Our objective was to minimize those risks as much as possible.”
Rookies Loïc Brodeur and Natan Charon emerged as key players in the second half, stepping in after veteran William Quenneville suffered an injury. “They applied pressure effectively when it mattered,” Fortier noted proudly. The team’s defensive efforts culminated in five sacks, with significant contributions from Ndéki Garant-Doumambila and Brodeur, who forced a crucial fumble in the fourth quarter.
As a unique bonus, football analyst and former player Arnaud Gascon-Nadon promised Fortier a fur coat if the Rouge et Or secured the victory. Fortier humorously decided to keep his cowboy hat despite the offer, stating, “I took him at his word, and I’m going to bring it back to Quebec.” This victory not only solidified the team’s legacy but also exemplified the spirit and resilience of the players and coaching staff.