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A Proud Tradition

Bishop’s University has long standing dedication to the student athlete, a commitment that began with the inception of the school as Bishop’s College in 1843. During those early years, Bishop’s became know as a place where students had the opportunity not only to receive the finest education but to experience the rich cultural heritage of the Eastern Townships. That commitment to a liberal arts education has entrenched in those students a passion for athletic and recreational activities, a tradition that continues to this day.

Today, Bishop’s University still stands for those same values by providing its students small class sizes, a sense of community and a sound liberal education. It is those values that enable students the opportunity to not only pursue a degree in their field of choice, but to partake in a variety of other courses outside their principal division.

Interuniversity athletics at Bishop’s University has long been a source of pride for students, alumni and community members. A cavalcade of fans follow the Bishop’s team on the road, often out-numbering the opposition’s supporters. Gaiter Football has played a principal role in that tradition, a prime example being last season where seven bus loads of students rode proudly to Montreal to support their beloved Gaiters as they took on the Concordia Stingers.

‘’For over 100 years football has been a source of pride within the Bishop’s community,‘’ says former Bishop’s University Athletic Director and current QUFL Commissioner Tom Allen. ‘’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 an display of school spirit. The Bishop’s community follows their athletes through thick and thin, unlike many larger schools, and football kicks off that concept every year.’’

That feeling of camaraderie spreads throughout the stands, creating a bond between students, parents, alumni and community members. The players and coaches on the team not only sport the school colours (purple and white) but are neighbours, friends and family within the community. It is that partnership, between the community and the team that leaves a lasting impression on coaches and players alike.

Gaiter football has also produced a number of top caliber athletes who have moved on to the professional ranks. Currently Andrew Carter (B.C.), Gilles Colon (Winnipeg), Dave Stipe (Hamilton) and Matt Robichaud (Hamilton) have all moved on to careers in the CFL, but all cut their teeth on the turf at Coulter Field. Former CFLers Larry Smith, Ron Perowne, Wally and Steve Zatylny and Leroy Blugh all had stellar playing careers at Bishop’s before reaching the next level. ‘’You’ll see those names on the Hall of Fame Wall at the Plex,’’ said former Gaiter Kevin Mailloux, ‘’and you get goose bumps. Playing at Coulter Field, where all these great athletes played and in front of so many fans, it really is awe inspiring.’’

As Bishop’s moves into its second 150 years, new endeavors such as the Gaiter Club and corporate partnerships have been created to continue that tradition of athletic excellence. With the support of the Bishop’s community, that tradition will continue for years to come.