Media Release

For Immediate Release

December 11, 2008

Laval to host Vanier Cup in 2009 and 2010

The Saint Mary’s University Huskies will have to wait to compete in the Vanier Cup on home turf.

Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS) announced today that Université Laval will host the CIS football championship in Quebec City in 2009 and 2010.

Last week Saint Mary’s sent a letter of intent to the CIS expressing interest in hosting the game for the next three years.

“We congratulate Laval and Quebec City on their selection,” said Chuck Bridges, Vice President (Assoc.) of External Affairs at Saint Mary’s. “Like Saint Mary’s and Halifax, Laval has a strong football program and Quebec City is great football city. We know they’ll help build excitement for CIS football and we wish them well.”

Despite not getting the game this time, Saint Mary’s is still interested in eventually hosting the Vanier Cup in Halifax. Building on support received for this bid, the University plans to continue working with the province, the city and its alumni to prepare an improved bid to host the game in 2011 and beyond.

“We look forward the next round of bidding and we appreciate the support we’ve received from the province, Halifax and our alumni,” said Bridges. “We’re Halifax’s football team, and it will be a privilege to bring this national championship game to Atlantic Canada.”

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For more information:

Blake Patterson
Public Affairs Officer
Saint Mary's University, Public Affairs
(902) 420.5514
E-mail: blake.patterson@smu.ca
www.smu.ca