Laval's Marc Calixte, pictured here with his father, Jean-François, following the Calgary Stampeders' win over the Montreal Alouettes in last year's Grey Cup Game, will be honoured at city hall this coming Friday.
(Photo: Martin Alarie)
Marc Calixte brings Grey Cup to Laval
Civic reception for cup winner and grad of Laval minor football
Ville de Laval extends an invitation to the community-at-large to come and meet Marc Calixte of Laval, a member of the Grey Cup Champion Calgary Stampeders. And oh, yes, he'll have Lord's Grey's famous mug with him when he visits city hall this coming Friday, April 17.
Following the Stampeders 22-14 win over the Alouettes at Olympic Stadium last November, Calixte promised he would bring the cup to Laval. He's keeping his promise.
"I'm not doing it for me, but for the young people. I want them to know that a guy from Laval like me can reach his goals and fulfill his dream. I want to be a source of inspiration for young of Laval," he states without reservation.
A graduate of the Vimont Patriots, Laval Broncos and Laval North Vikings, Calixte decided he wants to share the trophy with those who watched him grow up.
Photo opportunity
Football fans can have their picture taken with Marc Calixte and the Grey Cup between 7:00 pm and 8:00 pm Friday, April 17. Bring your own camera to record this very special moment in history.
The defensive half-back will also sign autographs and spend time with fans. It's a sure bet he'll be kidded about having been on a team that beat the Alouettes for the cup. "It's not unusual for me to be pestered about these things, but I take it in stride. I take it as a compliment. It's normal. Quebecers love the Montreal Alouettes, as they should." he wisely explains.
Royal reception
Prior to the evening session with fans, Marc Calixte and his family will be warmly received by Laval Mayor Gilles Vaillancourt. The Laval-des-Rapides athlete will sign the city's Golden Book, following which a few special words will be said in his honour. He'll also be awarded the Ville de Laval City Council Medal.
Spreading the good news
In addition to his visit to city hall, Marc Calixte would also love to show the cup in schools suffering from high drop-out rates, at the Centre Jeunesse, and at other yet-to-be determined locations.
"I'll have to find out from city hall and from education officials as to how the process works," he concludes.