Concordia University is a well-known institution in Canada, particularly in the province of Quebec. The university has a rich history of academic excellence and athletic achievements, including its football program. In this article, we will delve into the world of Concordia University football, exploring the division in which they compete, their performance over the years, and what makes their program unique.
Understanding the Canadian University Football Landscape
Canadian university football is divided into four main conferences, each comprising multiple teams. The conferences are:
- Atlantic University Sport (AUS)
- Quebec Student Sports Federation (RSEQ)
- Ontario University Athletics (OUA)
- Canada West Universities Athletic Association (CWUAA)
These conferences are further divided into two main divisions: the U Sports (formerly known as CIS) and the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA).
Concordia University Football Division
Concordia University competes in the Réseau du sport étudiant du Québec (RSEQ), which is one of the four main conferences in Canadian university football. Within the RSEQ, Concordia University is part of the U Sports division, which is the top-level division for Canadian university football.
The U Sports division is divided into three main conferences: the Atlantic, Quebec, and Ontario conferences. Concordia University is part of the Quebec conference, along with seven other teams:
- Université de Montréal Carabins
- Université Laval Rouge et Or
- McGill University Redbirds
- Université de Sherbrooke Vert et Or
- Bishop's University Gaiters
- Université du Québec à Montréal Citadins
The Concordia University Stingers football team has been a part of the RSEQ conference since 1971 and has a rich history of competing at the highest level in Canadian university football.
Performance and Achievements
Throughout its history, the Concordia University Stingers football team has experienced its share of successes and setbacks. In recent years, the team has shown significant improvement, finishing with a winning record in several seasons.
In 2016, the Stingers finished with a 6-2 record, earning a second-place finish in the RSEQ conference. They went on to compete in the U Sports playoffs, ultimately falling short in the quarterfinals.
The team has also produced several talented players who have gone on to compete at the professional level, including in the Canadian Football League (CFL).
What Makes Concordia University Football Unique
Concordia University football is unique for several reasons:
- History and Tradition: The Stingers have a rich history in Canadian university football, dating back to 1971. The team has a strong tradition of competitiveness and a loyal fan base.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Concordia University has invested heavily in its athletic facilities, including the recently renovated Loyola Stadium. The stadium features a state-of-the-art turf field and seating for over 3,000 spectators.
- Dedicated Coaching Staff: The Stingers coaching staff is led by experienced head coach Brad Collinson, who has been at the helm of the program since 2011. The coaching staff is dedicated to developing talented players and competing at the highest level.
Recruitment and Scholarships
Concordia University offers several scholarships and recruitment opportunities for talented football players. The university's recruitment process is highly competitive, with coaches and scouts identifying top talent from across Canada and beyond.
Players interested in joining the Stingers must meet specific academic and athletic requirements, including:
- A minimum average of 75% in high school or CEGEP
- A strong athletic record, including experience playing football at the high school or junior level
Concordia University also offers several scholarships specifically for football players, including the prestigious President's Scholarship.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
Concordia University football is a proud program with a rich history and tradition of competitiveness. As part of the U Sports division, the Stingers compete at the highest level in Canadian university football.
With a dedicated coaching staff, state-of-the-art facilities, and a strong recruitment process, the Stingers are well-positioned for success in the years to come. As the program continues to grow and develop, fans can expect to see talented players competing at the highest level.
Gallery of Concordia University Football
FAQ Section
What division does Concordia University football compete in?
+Concordia University football competes in the U Sports division, which is the top-level division for Canadian university football.
What conference is Concordia University part of?
+Concordia University is part of the Réseau du sport étudiant du Québec (RSEQ) conference.
How can I try out for the Concordia University football team?
+Players interested in trying out for the Concordia University football team must meet specific academic and athletic requirements. They can contact the coaching staff or visit the university's website for more information.