Football
Bishop’s University’s long-standing commitment to the student-athlete dates back to the school’s founding in 1843. From the beginning, Bishop’s has been a place where students have the opportunity to receive the finest education and to experience the rich cultural heritage of the Eastern Townships. The university’s commitment to a liberal arts education included a belief in educating the “whole student”, instilling a passion for athletics and recreation that continues to this day. Today, Bishop’s still stands for those same values, with small class sizes, a strong community, and a sound education. Bishop’s gives its students the opportunity to pursue a degree in the field of their choice and to partake in a variety of other courses and activities beyond their major.
Athletics at Bishop’s University has long been a source of pride for students, faculty and alumni alike. A cavalcade of fans follows Bishop’s teams at home and away: this is their team and that team is important to them. Gaiter Football has played a leading role in that tradition. As an example, last year saw more than 300 students ride proudly to Montreal to watch the Gaiters defeat the McGill Redmen.
“For over 100 years, football has been a source of pride within the Bishop’s community,” says Tom Allen, the QUFL Commissioner and a former Bishop’s Athletic Director. “It’s a method to bring students, faculty, and members of the community together. It kicks off orientation week by initiating freshmen to an unparalleled display of school spirit. The Bishop’s community follows their athletes through thick and thin, unlike many larger schools, and football kicks that off that every year.”
That camaraderie spreads throughout the stands, creating a bond between students, parents, faculty, alumni, and the Lennoxville community. When a Gaiter puts on the Purple, Silver, and White, they are not only playing for themselves or their team. They are playing for their school, the community and their neighbours, friends and family. This partnership between the community and its team leaves a lasting impression on coaches and players alike.
Despite playing in the smallest football school in the country, the Gaiters have made an impact on the national stage. The Gaiters have ten league titles in their trophy case, from the Intermediate champions in 1934 through the undefeated teams of 1954-55 to the run of four OQIFC titles in seven years. 37 different Gaiters have become All-Canadians, and more than 20 have gone on to the pro level. Dan McCullough, James Yurichuk, and Jamall Lee currently ply their trade in the CFL - following in the footsteps of such stars as Larry Smith, Wally Zatylny, Tom Europe, and Leroy Blugh - while three Gaiters (Mark Hatfield, Jamall Lee and Shawn Gore) have signed NFL contracts. All of them cut their teeth on the hallowed turf of Coulter Field before moving to the next level. “I’m thankful to my coaches for giving me this chance. Without coming here, none of this would have been possible,” said Lee. “Coming to Bishop’s was the best decision I’ve made.”
Bishop’s University remains committed to athletic excellence, and endeavours such as the Gaiter Club and increased corporate partnerships will ensure that the Gaiters are a force in CIS football. With the support of the Bishop’s community, that tradition of excellence will continue for years to come.
