Football veteran named Athlete of the Week
Wide receiver, Alex Charette, converted for three touchdowns (a personal accomplishment not achieved since high school playing days) in the Gryphons 50-18 win against the University of Toronto Varsity Blues on Sept. 6. The homeopener – and Gryphons first win of the season – featured Charette catching eight passes for 61 yards. Strong statistics and an overall dominant game resulted in Athlete of the Week honours week ending Sept. 7 for the Gryphons fourth-year star.
The St. Catharines native played a significant role in kick starting the Gryphons season, as the momentum continued when the team visited and defeated the University of Ottawa GeeGees 42-7 on Sept. 13. The Gryphons are now 3-1 on the season and look to keep things rolling when the Queens Gaels come to town as the featured opponent in the much-anticipated homecoming match-up on Sept. 20.
The Philadelphia Eagles fan and fourth-year Environmental Biology major took some time to discuss his favourite thing about being a Gryphon, his motivations on the field, what advice he has for first years, and more.
Stephanie Coratti: What’s the best thing about being a Gryphon?
Alex Charette: The best thing about being a Gryphon is the student atmosphere and pride we have here.
S.C.: What do you find to be the most challenging?
A.C.: The most challenging would be being called “Moo U,” which isn’t really much of a challenge to defend. I don’t mind it.
S.C.: Where, or who, do you get your motivation from?
A.C.: Mostly my family and my own personal goals, but also wanting to do my university proud.
S.C.: What has the biggest influence on you, on and off the field?
A.C.: My family, for sure; they give me my motivation to do everything for them.
S.C.: What are your aspirations outside of football?
A.C.: To work somewhere out in the fields or forest area, studying wildlife and traveling the world to experience nature’s biodiversity myself before it’s all gone.
S.C.: When not playing football, what do you enjoy doing?
A.C.: I’m gonna have to say relaxing and resting. With football, there is no “offseason,” so I take my rest where I can.
S.C.: Do you have a favourite sport other than football?
A.C.: Basketball and soccer.
S.C.: Who’s your all-time favourite athlete?
A.C.: Usain Bolt.
S.C.: As a fourth-year Gryphon, do you have any advice you would give first years?
A.C.: To live it without regrets; it goes by very quick.
S.C.: What’s next for you following the season and the school year?
A.C.: Keeping my head down and working. Good things come to those who work hard.