Ludovick Choquette’s journey to potentially joining the CFL has been fraught with adversity, starting with the loss of his mother at age 7. Through battles with depression and coaching instability during his NCAA career, his grandmother, Claudine Raymond, has been a constant source of support. Her sacrifices and commitment to his success have been pivotal. Inspired by mentors, Choquette has transformed his struggles into passion for football, aiming to prove himself as a top prospect in the upcoming draft.
Overcoming Adversity: Ludovick Choquette’s Inspiring Journey
REGINA – After facing a multitude of obstacles both on the football field and in his personal life, Ludovick Choquette is on the verge of realizing his dream of joining the CFL. His journey has been anything but easy, marked by significant challenges that have shaped him into the player he is today.
The most profound challenge came at the tender age of 7 when he lost his mother. This tragedy set the stage for a series of trials that would test his resilience. During his collegiate career in the NCAA, Choquette battled depression and navigated through numerous changes in coaching staff, which added to his struggles.
Throughout these hardships, the support of his grandmother has been a cornerstone of his journey. Raised by Claudine Raymond, who embraced the role of a mother, she has been his unwavering source of encouragement during life’s toughest moments.
The Role of Family in Achieving Dreams
“Without my grandmother, I wouldn’t be here,” Choquette reflected. “I can’t even imagine where I would be without her support. Football has truly saved my life, teaching me respect and guiding me away from harmful choices. My strong faith has also played a crucial role in my recovery.”
Choquette opened up about his struggles with depression in 2022, stating, “I was searching for answers. Finding God has brought me joy and a renewed sense of purpose.” After playing three seasons at Western Illinois and one at Long Island, he is now poised to make a significant impact in the professional ranks.
In a pivotal moment of his career, Choquette is grateful to have his grandmother by his side in Regina. Claudine Raymond made it a priority to attend the evaluation camp, showcasing her commitment to his success. “I’ve been with him every step of the way since he started with the Magdeleine program in La Prairie,” she shared. “I even moved and rented my house to ensure he could participate in the sports-study program. Watching him leave for Florida at 16 was tough, but I promised to always support him.”
During his time at Magdeleine, Choquette was inspired by Bruno Heppell, a former NCAA star and Montreal Alouettes player, whose journey provided hope. “Bruno taught me the importance of punctuality and was a guiding figure in my life,” he noted. His close friendship with Heppell’s son, Jordan, has also been invaluable.
Mrs. Raymond expressed her concerns when Choquette attended Western Illinois, a small town far from Chicago. “It wasn’t the best environment for him, so I was relieved when he transferred to Long Island,” she said.
In Regina, Mrs. Raymond is heavily invested in ensuring her grandson’s success, even preparing his meals to maintain his strict diet. “I woke up at 5 a.m. to cook for him in my hotel room,” she revealed. “It’s vital for him to eat well to perform at his best.”
With tears of pride, Mrs. Raymond spoke of the young man her grandson has become. “He is a precious gift in my life. His humility and gratitude for my sacrifices truly touch my heart. I admire his resilience. He transformed his anger and frustration into a passion for football, and his discipline is key to his potential as a professional athlete.”
Having excelled in agility tests, Choquette is determined to demonstrate his full capabilities. “I want to showcase my physical skills and prove that I am the top running back and one of the best prospects for the draft,” he declared with confidence.