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November 21, 2018 | Football

The top Cégep tailback brings explosive game to Concordia.The top Cégep tailback brings explosive game to Concordia.

Star running back ready to revolutionize Stinger football

Head coach Brad Collinson is pleased to announce all-star running back Kevin Foster Verdier from the Vanier Cheetahs has committed to the Concordia Stingers football program.

Verdier was the leading rusher in the RSEQ Division 1 Cégep conference in 2018. He carried the ball 159 times for 971 yards (6.1 average) and four touchdowns.

“I’m extremely excited to have a player of Kevin’s calibre commit to our program,” said Collinson. “Kevin is a dynamic running back. He can catch coming out of the back field as well as run between the tackles. He’s an intense competitor with a winning attitude. He will be able to push our vets right away.”

The five-foot-eight, 175-pound Laval, Que. resident has had success at every level, winning championships and awards at Lorne Park Secondary School in Mississauga, Ont., at Rosemere High School and at Vanier College.

Verdier’s ability to read defences, his explosiveness and his speed have contributed to his success. He’s committed to taking those skills to the next level.

“I made the decision to come to Concordia because I know Brad Collinson is focused on moving this team forward and I want to be a part of it,” said Verdier. “It’s going to be a revolution. I want to shock the world with Coach Brad.”

Verdier is following in the footsteps of his uncle Farell Duclair, who was a running back with the Stingers in the mid-90s. He was selected in the first round of the 1996 CFL draft by the Calgary Stampeders and went on to play five seasons of professional football.

Athletic prowess runs deep in the family. Verdier’s cousin is Anthony Duclair of the NHL’s Columbus Blue Jackets.

“My family is very supportive,” said Verdier. “I especially have to thank my parents (Fauster Verdier and Debbie Duclair). My mom is a real football mom. She’s helped me keep my head on straight. She doesn’t tell me what to do, but she always has good advice.”

Verdier is still considering his academic options including working towards a degree in administration.