Clutching opportunity

CEGEP defensive back newest recruit to join Vanier Cup Champions’ 2014 class.

Felix Bamrounsavatah had clear goals of what he was looking for when he was deciding his future CIS home.

“Before making my choice and before visiting any facility, I clarified my mind on what I should focus to do the best choice,” explained Bamrounsavath.  “I came up with three majors factors to look after; the social plan, my academic development and the football program itself.”

After months of consideration, the 5’10, 190 pound defensive back from Quebec City, Quebec has found the right place.  This past week, Bamrounsavath committed to the Vanier Cup Champions, Laval Rouge et Or.

However, the decision was not easy as it was between the Rouge et Or and the McGill Redmen.  In the end, playing locally was appealing to Bamrounsavath.

“Laval is the only university in my hometown and by its proximity, this school already had an edge over the others,” commented Bamrounsavath.  “I think playing for the local team is going to be something special, even though I was ready to leave the town to play for another team.”

“Leaving for McGill (my 2nd choice) would have been a completely different experience, but as good.”

Furthermore, academics played a significant role in his decision to go with Laval.

“Laval’s kinesiology program is different from the others universities,” said Bamrounsavath.  “It’s the only that needs a DEC in pure science (social science is usually the DEC required), and that is because the program’s courses are more focused on the biologic and anatomic side of kinesiology.”

“This is precisely what I am looking for, what I love, and that is unique to Laval.”

As is the case with many players going through the recruitment process, the Quebec defensive back went through a roller coaster of emotions and thoughts that is common during this time. For Bamrounsavath, he is confident of his decision as well as the opportunities that he will have with a program that boasts a tradition of excellence and winning.

“A commitment to the best football program is scary for a new player,” expressed Bamrounsavath. “You really feel insecure about how long it will take, how many years, how many seasons, before stepping on the field as an established starter.”

“I’m pretty sure that this is the biggest factor for most of us when it comes to choose a team where you are going to spend the next four or five years; how quick will you play. Everybody around you tells you how hard it must be to become a starter for the Rouge et Or and there was some very interesting opportunities somewhere else. But this is not exactly what I’ve been told by the coaching staff of Laval. They are confident in my ability to compete fast, faster than I first thought, as a cornerback as much as halfback. No doubt, Laval is the best football program of the country. And at the end, I asked myself where I would go if I was assured to be a starter at my rookie year. I clutched at this moment. This is the best program, it’s close to where I grew up, it’s close to my family, the facility is incredible, and the timing is good (if looking at the depth chart).”

Overall, he is looking forward to suiting up for the Vanier Champions and is going to make the best of his time in Laval.

“Opportunities aren’t given, they are taken, and I’m really confident for what is to come,” added Bamrounsavath.

The Quebec defensive back joins the Rouge et Or after completing his CEGEP career with Division 1 team, FX-Garneau Elans.  This past season, Bamrounsavath registered 31 tackles, 19 assisted tackles, three tackles for a loss and three batted down balls.  For his exceptional play on the field, he was named to the league’s Division 1 team at the cornerback position.  He also won a Bol D’Or Championship in 2011.

Previous to CEGEP, Bamrounsavath played high school football at Externat Saint Jean Eudes.

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