The Université de Montréal Carabins relies on continuity on the defensive.
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No one will blame them considering they mostly rely on athletes like Kaylyn St-Cyr, Nicky Farinaccio, Harols Miessan, Bruno Lagacé, Michael Brodrique and Philippe Lemieux-Cardinal.
“Defensively we had a great season last year. I think we have a lot more depth this year. We have a nice mix of young and experienced players. It’s very exciting to watch them during the camp,” said head coach Marco Iadeluca.
The pilot knows something about it, because as offensive coordinator he has to face his defense every day. For his part, St-Cyr is not afraid to express his ideas of greatness.
“Last year we were by far the best defense in the country. I feel like we’re just going to pick up where we left off last year. We also hired young talent and our system is very well established.
Nothing against St-Cyr, it was Laval University Rouge et Or that conceded the fewest points last year (108). That being said, it doesn’t detract from the Blues’ defensive unit, which was very impressive.
The return of the same coaches to coordinator Denis Touchette’s unit is also an advantage, the defender said.
“We are fortunate to have excellent trainers. The bond between players and coaches is what really makes us special. That gives us an advantage,” the third-year player is convinced.
heartbreaking decisions
Iadeluca and St-Cyr mentioned the arrival of talented young footballers, a situation that poses a major problem for the Carabins coaches.
This is especially true at the back line, where three of the four starters in 2021, namely Lemieux-Cardinal, Christopher Fontenard and Tommy Mercier, are back. Sophomores like Gabriel Maisonneuve are ready to take up more space. There are also newcomers like college tour star Jhonathan Mutombo and NCAA grad Xavier Thibault.
Defensive chief Gladymir Charmant will certainly not invoke this enigma and assures that all players in uniform will have the chance to assert themselves on the field. However, there will be footballers who will have to wait until next year.
“We have guys who will not wear shirts this season that could have started for any other team in our league,” said Charmant. But if you decide to come to the University of Montreal, understand this reality. Good athletes are motivated in such circumstances and I want to see that.