Audrey Leduc and Jonathan Sénécal Honored at Canadian University Sports Gala
CALGARY – Two representatives from the RSEQ were crowned on Monday at the Canadian university sports end-of-year gala, with Audrey Leduc and Jonathan Sénécal being named athletes of the year.
Leduc and Sénécal were selected from a list of eight finalists from the four major conferences in Canada. Leduc, a sprinter representing the Université Laval Rouge et Or, excelled on the North American stage, setting two new Canadian records in the 100m and 200m events.
“It’s truly amazing. Thank you to U Sports for choosing me for this honor! My season has been fantastic so far, and to add this trophy… It’s indescribable,” she said in a statement released by U Sports.
“I would like to thank everyone at Rouge et Or, whether it’s the administration, medical team, or coaches. Thank you all for being there for my athletic career.”
In addition to her record-breaking performances, Leduc also dominated the Canadian scene in the 60m event, winning the Canadian university title in March.
Following the University of Montreal Carabins’ victory in the Vanier Cup in 2023, Sénécal was also named the most valuable player in the final against the University of British Columbia Thunderbirds.
Sénécal also received the Hec Crighton Trophy, awarded to the best Canadian university football player. He became the first to achieve the “triple crown” in his sport since Don Clair of the University of Calgary in 1995.
“It’s really unbelievable,” a visibly emotional Sénécal said. “There are many excellent athletes across the country, and to know that my candidacy stood out is very flattering. I am grateful to everyone who has helped me during my student-athlete journey. Without them, I could never have reached the level I am at today.”
“When Jonathan informed me that he was joining the Carabins, we had very high expectations for him,” said head coach Marco Iadeluca. “Not only did he meet them, he exceeded them. On the field, his confidence and level of play make everyone around him better. We are aware of how lucky we are to have him with us.”
