Marc-Antoine Dequoy, a defensive halfback for the Montreal Alouettes, recently highlighted the importance of French at the 2023 Grey Cup in Winnipeg. His emotional speech from the event addressed issues surrounding the dominance of English in the league. Dequoy praised the organizers for recognizing French by showcasing it effectively, stating that the promotional materials reflected a balanced representation with equal use of both languages.
Recap of the 2023 Grey Cup
During the 110th Grey Cup final held on November 19, 2023, the Alouettes pulled off a surprising victory, although they had been underestimated leading up to the game. After the match, Dequoy expressed his feelings about the lack of faith in their team, emphasizing how the majority of materials were in English. He passionately declared, “Keep your English! We will win these cups and bring them back to Montreal, to Quebec.”
Positive Changes for French Representation
Reflecting on the changes made since his 2023 speech, Dequoy acknowledged the efforts to promote French within the league. He stated, “I am happy that my speech was heard. They have made efforts and changes to ensure better representation.” His feedback indicates a shift in the league’s approach toward inclusivity of the French language.
Experience as an Asset
- Dequoy emphasized the value of veterans on the team, sharing insights from past Grey Cup experiences.
- He noted that players with prior finals experience can mentor newcomers effectively.
- Dequoy shared his personal memory from 2023, describing the emotional intensity of the event.
For rookie players, such as Geoffrey Cantin-Arku, Dequoy shared advice from his experience, noting that the moment can feel larger than anticipated. He encouraged young players to approach the game with enthusiasm and to eliminate regrets by giving their all.
As the Alouettes prepare to face the Saskatchewan Roughriders in the upcoming 112th Grey Cup, Dequoy’s insights and experiences remain invaluable. The emphasis on French representation and the encouragement of camaraderie among players highlights a more inclusive atmosphere in Canadian football.
