First game of the AAA football season was a nail-biter

So began the 2008 season of the Laval Panthers AAA senior football team made up of students who attend Laval Liberty High School. Having qualified to play in Quebec’s AAA league, “the only English football team in the province to make it since the 1960s or 1970s,” says school commissioner, Tom Mouhteros, all eyes are focused on this group of young men. Last year, as a team in the AA league, the Panthers completed an undefeated dream season and were crowned provincial champions.

There has been a considerable investment made by the Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board, the school itself, principal, staff, students and the community-at-large in bringing the Panthers to the AAA level.

“The success of the football program to date proves it is worthwhile, “ said Eric Ruggi, principal of Laval Liberty High School. “Some of these students would not even be in school if it wasn’t for this team which instills a sense of purpose, pride, value and credibility.”

Many former students and team members were at the game. James D’Andrea, 17, former Panther quarter back now studying engineering at Vanier College and hoping to play university football for either Concordia or McGill, came out to support the team.

“We are all family, even after we graduate we are still a part of the Panthers. Our generation was the founding members of this team. We began the tradition,” said D’Andrea.

Another graduate of the squad, Jimmy Mouhteros, echoed similar sentiments and referred to the brotherhood that exists between former and current team members. Now a member of the Vanier College team, he too plans on playing football as long as possible.

Well into the third quarter and the Panthers go up by a touchdown, and then seem to take control of the game. A surprise short kick on the ensuing kick-off; Laval retains possession of the ball, and they march on for another major score of 35-21. Then a fumble by the Sphinx in the fourth quarter, and another turnover leads to yet another touch down.

Peggy Bekelis, whose two sons, Theo, 16, and Nick, 15, both play for the Panthers, is one of the team’s most committed supporters.

“As always, (the game was) a nail-biter until the end, they like keeping us until the end. But they worked hard, they’re really something special,” she said, after the match.

All ends well at the Parc Gerry Dattilio sports field, on a warm Friday night at the end of August. The 500 or so happy fans mill about as the game winds down ending in a 49-28 victory for the Laval Panthers in their first-ever game as AAA league players.

“What did you say to the boys at halftime,” asked Courrier Laval.

“I simply told them that the only reason the opposition scored the touchdowns they did in the first half was because we gave them gifts,” he said, referring to the turnovers that led to the Sphinx’s touchdowns.

“I know that you are faster, stronger and smarter than the other team. All you have to do is stop turning over the ball in the second half,” Alexandre added.

“After last year’s dream season, how do you honestly feel about your team’s chances of doing well in the AAA league after last year’s dream season,” Courrier Laval persisted.

“I am confident,” said Alexandre, a French teacher at the school and a former professional football player with the Hamilton Tiger Cats.

Yes, he put particular emphasis on attitude, and the team, and the spirit - a winning combination for a winning program at Laval Liberty High School.

This fall, get out and support these fine young men, and you’ll feel the spirit too. Guaranteed.

For more information about upcoming Laval Panthers games, visit www.swlauriersb.qc.ca