The French branch of the Carabins of the University of Montreal is running at full speed.
If wide winger Hassane Dosso had demonstrated his potential in 2021 before missing the vast majority of the 2022 season due to a serious knee injury and tackle Christopher Fontenard is a force inside on the line defensively, a new kid stands out among the starters this year.
In his third season, running back Glodi Halafu earned the starting position in training camp and he will experience his baptism of fire against the Laval University Rouge et Or in a starting role.
“Since the age of 12 when I saw Johnny Manziel (Texas A&M) beat Alabama, I have dreamed of playing in the university ranks and playing big matches,” said the Gaillards de Jonquière product who was born in Congo , but who grew up in France. I am grateful to the Lord for giving me the chance to play in this type of match. This is why I crossed the Atlantic.”
“Initially, I wanted to get an opportunity in the NCAA, but I was not approached,” added Halafu. Montreal is the only team that recruited me.
In his 3rd season in the Blues uniform, Halafu gets the opportunity to demonstrate his know-how. “The important thing is not my plan, but God’s plan which wanted me to be ready in my 3rd year,” he stressed. I worked hard for these moments and my work paid off.”
Important departures
An important piece of the Carabins’ defensive puzzle, Fontenard is now the most experienced player on the defensive line with the departure of Philippe Lemieux-Cardinal and Tommy Mercier who have completed their university careers.
“The new starters have less experience, but they will have as big an impact as me,” he said. I can’t wait for them to be seen so they get the credit they deserve. The depth on the defensive line is so enormous. From 1st to 17th, all the guys are good and it’s their turn to prove it. As a starter, the depth of the defensive line puts a lot of pressure on us to do well.”
If he agrees that Fontenard, who cut his teeth with the Filons of Thetford Mines, is his general, Marco Iadeluca likes what he sees from the new starters. “Bradley Nseaka is ready to take on a bigger role,” said the Carabins head coach. Jeremiah Ojo and Gabriel Maisonneuve also saw a lot of field over the last two years and they were part of the rotation.
The native of Toulouse did not believe he would play such an important role upon his university debut in 2021. “I did not think I would have an impact so quickly,” admitted the 6’3”, 287-pound tackle. I liked that the coaches gave me a chance in my first season. I progressed every year.”
With his status as an international player, the doors of the CFL could open to Fontenard. “The CFL is now more accessible for international players and it’s really cool to shine the spotlight on players from all over the world, but that doesn’t worry me too much at the moment,” he said. I want to finish my studies and I will only be eligible in two years.”