Francis Verreault-Paul, an Innu from Mashteuiatsh, transitioned from a successful hockey career in the QMJHL to leadership roles, including chief of staff for the Assembly of First Nations and now chief of the Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador. Emphasizing the importance of education instilled by his family, he graduated from McGill University. His experiences in sports shaped his values of teamwork and humility, which he carries into his leadership, alongside a deep appreciation for his cultural roots and family traditions.
Francis Verreault-Paul: A Journey from Hockey to Leadership
Hailing from Roberval, Francis Verreault-Paul, an Innu from Mashteuiatsh in the Lac-Saint-Jean region, embarked on a remarkable hockey journey that kicked off in the QMJHL with the Chicoutimi Saguenéens, where he dedicated five years to the sport.
After wrapping up his junior hockey career, he made a pivotal choice by enrolling at McGill University to enhance his hockey skills and improve his English proficiency. The reality of balancing academics with athletics soon hit him, as he discovered that McGill was not merely a place for sports; it demanded academic success as well. Proudly, he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Physiology, marking a significant milestone in his educational journey.
Leadership and Friendship: The Bonds That Shape Us
For two years, Francis served as the chief of staff for the Assembly of First Nations. On February 25, at 37 years old, he was elected as the chief of the Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador, succeeding Ghislain Picard, who held the position for an impressive 33 years.
Reflecting on his friendship with David Desharnais, Francis recalls, “My friendship with David began during our first training camp with the Chicoutimi Saguenéens in the QMJHL. We both fought hard to secure our spots on the team, and fortunately, we earned the chance to represent our team. That marked the start of an enduring friendship.”
Speaking of his time under Richard Martel, Francis describes him as a colorful and intense figure who played a significant role in his development as a person. “Regardless of how others perceived him, Richard made me a better man and helped shape who I am today,” he shares.
Family has always been a cornerstone of Francis’s life. His mother, Angèle, broke new ground as the first graduate in her family and served as a primary school teacher, emphasizing the importance of education to her children. His father Bernard instilled a strong work ethic, working in public transportation and tirelessly supporting his family, often driving Francis to the rink to nurture his passion for hockey.
Throughout his early life, Francis held various jobs, from mowing lawns to working in public works and as a park animator. Regardless of the role, his father expected him to approach every task with enthusiasm and respect.
Traditions hold a special place in Francis’s heart, deeply influenced by his mother’s teachings. He cherishes his family’s origins, embracing the rich history, traditions, and cultural pride that define his identity.
In his family, hunting was a means of sustenance rather than a recreational activity. “We were taught to hunt only when necessary, whether for food or medicinal purposes, never for sport,” he explains, highlighting the values instilled in him.
Francis acknowledges the financial sacrifices his parents made to support his athletic endeavors. “Like many parents, they faced challenges to provide me with the equipment I needed and to allow me to participate in hockey tournaments,” he admits.
Athletics have always been significant in his family. The Indigenous Games, which resemble mini-Olympics, celebrate traditional sports and foster community pride. Francis’s specialty was athletics, which he embraced wholeheartedly.
His hockey career began with the Saguenéens and saw him play at various levels, including McGill University, ECHL, the American League, and five years in Europe, culminating with the Marquis de Jonquière. Despite his travels, he always returned to Mashteuiatsh to honor his roots and his community.
Francis’s personal life is equally fulfilling, as he shares his life with Romane, an exceptional woman from Saguenay. Recently, they welcomed their first child, a son named Abraham, into their family.
As he leads the Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador, Francis reflects on how sports have influenced his life. “Sports taught me the importance of teamwork, bringing people together, humility, and the value of being a good listener,” he emphasizes, drawing parallels between athletics and leadership.