Montreal linebacker surprised with the announcement at practice

TORONTO (October 15, 2026) – Montreal Alouettes linebacker Geoffrey Cantin-Arku has been named the recipient of this year’s Jake Gaudaur Veterans’ Award. The Levis, Que., native is the 16th player to be recognized with the Canadian Football League’s (CFL) annual honour since its inception in 2010.

The Jake Gaudaur Veterans’ Award recognizes a Canadian CFL player who best demonstrates the attributes of Canada’s Veterans – strength, perseverance, courage, comradeship and contribution to Canadian communities. The late Jake Gaudaur – a distinguished Veteran of the Second World War and the longest-serving Commissioner in CFL history – embodied these qualities through his service to the country and the Canadian football community.

At the Alouettes’ Week 19 practice, Head Coach Jason Maas surprised the team by welcoming members of Cantin-Arku’s family to the field. Flanked by his two brothers and his godmother, his mother, Nancy, shared the news that he was this year’s recipient of the award. The moment is part of the CFL’s refreshed approach to recognizing award winners in lieu of a traditional awards ceremony, offering fans a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into the people and stories behind the statistics and accomplishments.

“The leadership and character that Geoffrey displays in the locker room speak to who he is as a teammate and as a person. More importantly, the care and compassion he displays in the community strengthen the bond between the team and the province of Quebec. He is a tremendous ambassador for our league, our sport and for all Canadians,” said CFL Commissioner Stewart Johnston.

“I congratulate Geoffrey on being named the recipient of this year’s Jake Gaudaur Veterans’ Award,” said the Honourable Jill McKnight, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence. “Through his dedication on and off the field, Geoffrey has demonstrated the same spirit of service, leadership and selflessness that Canada’s Veterans have exemplified for generations. His commitment to others reflects the lasting legacy of those who have served our country.”

Cantin-Arku has emerged as one of the team’s most dependable young leaders after being selected ninth overall in the 2024 CFL Canadian Draft. Losing his father at a young age instilled within him a deeply rooted sense of duty that has driven his football journey and his commitment to giving back to those around him. From Quebec City to Syracuse University and later the University of Memphis, he embraced new challenges and evolved at every stage of his development. That resiliency and determination carried through to the CFL, where he dressed for every game as a rookie in 2024. He quickly established himself as a key contributor on defence and special teams, while earning the trust and respect of teammates and coaches alike.

He has grown into an important part of the team’s culture, making a point of ensuring every player, coach and staff member feels included and connected to the group. Whether organizing team gatherings, encouraging teammates to spend time together away from football or helping younger players adjust to life as a professional, he works hard to foster the brotherhood that defines the team. His efforts have strengthened camaraderie and reinforced bonds that extend well beyond the field.

Cantin-Arku is equally committed to the community. He founded the GCA Football Camp Academy in Quebec City, providing instruction, mentorship and leadership opportunities to more than 250 youth annually, while ensuring participants can attend regardless of their financial circumstances. He champions food security through Purolator Tackle Hunger and his volunteer work with Welcome Hall Mission, a social services organization that provides support to Montrealers in need.

Cantin-Arku was selected by a committee made up of Deborah Bethell from Veterans Affairs Canada, CFL ON TSN analyst and former Honorary Colonel of 417 Combat Support Squadron, Glen Suitor, CFL Players’ Association Executive Director, David Mackie, and CFL Commissioner Stewart Johnston.