University of Ottawa student-athlete Francis Perron dies shortly after Gee-Gees football game
The University of Ottawa is mourning the death of Gee-Gees football player Francis Perron, who died shortly after the Gee-Gees first game of the season.
In a statement posted on the Gee-Gees website, uOttawa President Jacques Fremont said Perron died shortly after Saturday's game between the Gee-Gees and the University of Toronto in Toronto.
Perron, 25, was a Mechanical Engineering student at the University of Ottawa, and a defensive lineman in his fifth season with the Gee-Gees football team.
Perron is from Sherbrooke, Que., and joined the Gee-Gees in 2017.
"A bright, passionate, and caring person, Francis poured himself into his craft as a player and his academic pursuit of becoming an engineer. In the classroom, he was as big of a star as on the field, becoming a multiple-time U Sports Academic All-Canadian while studying Mechanical Engineering," said Fremont in a statement on Sunday.
"Francis' memory will live on through a vast network of loving family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched."
Perron played in the Gee-Gees 11-10 loss at Toronto on Saturday.
In a statement on Twitter, Gee-Gees head coach Marcel Bellefeuille said, “Our hearts are broken.”
“Losing Francis, we’ve lost an outstanding person, teammate, and veteran leader that made us better in every way possible. He was someone that loved and was loved, by everyone that is part of our program.”
Freemont offered condolences on behalf of the University of Ottawa to Perron's family, friends and loved ones.
"The thoughts of all members of our community are with you. I would also like to thank our colleagues at the University of Toronto for their steadfast support during this tragic event," said Fremont.
"I know how deeply this loss affects the student's teammates, Gee-Gees staff and all members of the Gee-Gees community, as well as members of the Faculty of Engineering. Let me just say to you: Our thoughts are with you in your grief, which we share. Rest assured you have our compassion, solidarity and support. We have mobilized our support services and you can count on ongoing assistance over the coming days and weeks."
The Gee-Gees next game is scheduled for Saturday at Queen's University.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field
A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.
Broadcaster and commentator Rex Murphy dead at 77: National Post
The National Post is reporting that Rex Murphy, the pundit and columnist who hosted a national call-in radio show for decades, has died.
Pearson gold heist suspect arrested after flying into Toronto from India
Another suspect is in custody in connection with the gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport last year, police say.
Millions of cyberattacks per hour as B.C. government investigates multiple breaches
Careful attention to government statements and legislation is required to get a handle on the level of risk British Columbians’ information is under, as investigators probe multiple breaches under a continued barrage of attacks.
Ontario family receives massive hospital bill as part of LTC law, refuses to pay
A southwestern Ontario woman has received an $8,400 bill from a hospital in Windsor, Ont., after she refused to put her mother in a nursing home she hated -- and she says she has no intention of paying it.
Debate on abortion rights erupts on Parliament Hill, Poilievre vows he won't legislate
A Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre would not legislate on, nor use the notwithstanding clause, on abortion, his office says, as anti-abortion protesters gather on Parliament Hill.
Justin and Hailey Bieber are expecting their first child together
Hailey and Justin Bieber are going to be parents. The couple announced the news on Thursday on Instagram, both sharing a video that showcases Hailey Bieber's growing belly.
Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study
Studies have shown that ultraprocessed foods can have a detrimental impact on health. But 30 years of research show they don’t all have the same impact.
New 'Lord of the Rings' film coming in 2026
The Oscar-winning team behind the nearly US$6 billion blockbuster 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies is reuniting to produce two new films.