The incredible rise of a former Rouge et Or to the Blue Bombers

After an unexpected detour, Ian Leroux is now enjoying a dream season with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

A native of Quebec City who trained with Laval University's prestigious Rouge et Or program, the long throw specialist is making his mark in the Canadian Football League (CFL), savoring every moment.

Drafted in the fourth round in 2024, Leroux chose to complete his master's degree in physiotherapy before definitively turning his back on university, concluding his time at Laval with a second Vanier Cup. At the most recent practice camp, he was released by Winnipeg, but a week later, the team recalled his services following the injury to veteran Mike Benson. Since then, he's not only carved out a place for himself, but convinced the management who released Benson.

On August 9 in Calgary, Leroux shone by setting up Sergio Castillo's record-breaking 63-yard field goal. “Sergio is extraordinary. My role is to give him confidence,” says the Québécois with humility.

Invaluable support from Shayne Gauthier

In this new adventure, Leroux can count on a mentor: Shayne Gauthier, also a former member of the Rouge et Or. The two teammates, neighbors in Winnipeg, share more than just the field. Gauthier regularly welcomes his younger son, and even hosted him and his family for a meal worthy of special occasions. “I feel responsible for accompanying him,” confides the 33-year-old veteran.

For Leroux, Gauthier is a model of perseverance. “He does the work behind the scenes, but always seriously and rigorously,” he says.

Grey Cup objective in Winnipeg

With the Blue Bombers in search of a sixth consecutive final, Leroux is keeping his feet on the ground: “I'm taking it one game at a time, but to play the Grey Cup at home would be a dream.” Next Sunday, he and his team-mates will attempt to go one step further against the Roughriders in Saskatchewan.

This content was created with the help of AI.