Montreal Alouettes linebacker Geoffrey Cantin-Arku wins Jake Gaudaur Veterans’ Award

Photo: Raphael Williams-Claudio/RWC Photography/3DownNation. All rights reserved.

Montreal Alouettes linebacker Geoffrey Cantin-Arku has won the CFL’s Jake Gaudaur Veterans’ Award, it was announced on Thursday. The nominees were unveiled earlier this month.

“The leadership and character that Geoffrey displays in the locker room speak to who he is as a teammate and as a person,” said CFL Commissioner Stewart Johnston in a statement.

“More importantly, the care and compassion he displays in the community strengthen the bond between the team and the province of Quebec. He is a tremendous ambassador for our league, our sport and for all Canadians.”

Presented annually since 2010, the award is named in honour of former CFL commissioner Jake Gaudaur, a distinguished veteran of the Second World War. It recognizes a Canadian player who best demonstrates the attributes of Canada’s veterans — strength, perseverance, courage, comradeship and contribution to Canadian communities.

Cantin-Arku founded the GCA Football Camp Academy in Quebec City, where he has provided instruction, mentorship, and leadership opportunities to more than 250 youth annually. He ensures that participants can attend regardless of their financial circumstances.

The 28-year-old also champions food security through Purolator Tackle Hunger and his volunteer work with Welcome Hall Mission, a social services organization that provides support to Montrealers in need.

“I congratulate Geoffrey on being named the recipient of this year’s Jake Gaudaur Veterans’ Award,” said the Honourable Jill McKnight, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence.

“Through his dedication on and off the field, Geoffrey has demonstrated the same spirit of service, leadership and selflessness that Canada’s Veterans have exemplified for generations. His commitment to others reflects the lasting legacy of those who have served our country.”

Cantin-Arku has recorded 78 defensive tackles, five special teams tackles, two tackles for loss, four sacks, two forced fumbles, three pass knockdowns, and one interception this season, his first as a full-time starter. The native of Lévis, Que. is also considered to be a leader off the field.

The selection committee for the award included Deborah Bethell from Veterans Affairs Canada, CFL on TSN analyst and former Honorary Colonel of 417 Combat Support Squadron Glen Suitor, CFL Players’ Association (CFLPA) executive director David Mackie, and CFL commissioner Stewart Johnston.

The Montreal Alouettes (13-3) will visit the Saskatchewan Roughriders (8-8) on Saturday, October 17 with kickoff scheduled for 3:00 p.m. ET. The two teams played on Thanksgiving this past week, as Davis Alexander threw five touchdown passes to lead Montreal to a 44-24 win.

The game will be broadcast on TSN, RDS, CTV, and Crave in Canada, and CFL+ internationally. Radio listeners can tune-in on TSN 690 (English) or 99.5 Montreal (French) in Montreal and 620 CKRM in Regina.