WATERLOO, Ont. – On Saturday, July 16, members of Wilfrid Laurier’s first-ever Vanier Cup championship team will reunite in celebration of their historic victory two decades ago.
This season marks the 20th anniversary of the Golden Hawks incredible run to the national championship title back in 1991.
That season, the Golden Hawks posted a 5-2 regular season record in Ontario University Athletic Association (OUAA) play. After disposing of cross-town rivals Waterloo in the OUAA Semifinals, the team battled the Western Mustangs for the Yates Cup where they earned a hard-fought 13-12 victory.
The win advanced Laurier to the Churchill Bowl (now known as the Mitchell Bowl) and a date with the Queen’s Golden Gaels. The Golden Hawks dominated the matchup, winning 42-22 and advanced to just their second-ever Vanier Cup appearance.
Before 30,000 fans at SkyDome in Toronto, the Golden Hawks rode the strong ground game of Andy Cecchini to earn a 25-18 win over the Mount Allison Mounties. Cecchini finished the game with 130 yards on the ground and two touchdowns to earn the Ted Morris Trophy as the games most outstanding player.
For Rich Newbrough, head coach of the 1991 team, this reunion has been a long time in the making. “It’s been 20 years since this team captured our first Vanier Cup and I don’t think they have all been together since then so I am sure there will be hugs all around,” said Newbrough. “The team battled a lot of adversity, especially injuries during our last 3 games, but they overcame and were deserving champions. It was an honor to be associated with these players, coaches and support staff and I am looking forward to July 16.”
Bill Kubas, who was the teams starting quarterback in 1991, recognizes that this reunion is an excellent opportunity to recognize everyone who helped the team reach their ultimate goal. “The winning of Wilfrid Laurier’s first Vanier Cup has been a humbling experience,” said Kubas. “It would not have happened without great players, coaches, administration, students, fans, community and family support. That’s why as an organizing committee we want this to be a wonderful family event to celebrate with all that supported the Golden Hawk program.”
The event will be held at University Stadium and will feature kids’ picnic activities, stadium and university tours, live music by Fred Hale and a Southern Barbeque Dinner provided by Hog Tails Bar B Que.
Surplus raised by the event will be donated back to the Wilfrid Laurier football program on behalf of the 1991 team,
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