By choosing Laval University's Rouge et Or, recipient Noah Smallwood finds himself in a city he knows well and where his mother grew up.
The Montreal-born slotback for John Abbott's Islanders won't find himself in unfamiliar territory when he arrives in Quebec for his university debut in the fall of 2024.
“I like Quebec, which I know well, and my maternal grandparents live in Lévis, as do several members of my family,” he said. I spent my summers and vacation seasons in the Quebec region. It’s a very familiar place for me.”
Smallwood was also courted by the Ottawa Gee Gees, the Bishop's Gaiters, the Concordia Stingers and the McGill Redbirds, ultimately choosing between the Rouge et Or and the Queen's Gaels.
“I enjoyed my visit to Queen's, but my visit to Laval later convinced me to choose Rouge et Or,” said the prospective business student. I loved the world and appreciated the transparency of the coaches more than anywhere else. Additionally, the program is very competitive.
In Laval, the regular player and returnee will reunite with two former teammates: Jordan Lessard and Shawn Valentine. “Because he plays cornerback, I was face to face with Jordan a lot at John Abbott’s practice,” he said. He is a good friend and a good teammate. I know he will be there for me if I have any questions.”
Smallwood was named to the All-Star team in his final two college seasons and caught 33 passes for 482 yards and five touchdowns in 2023. His quarterback last year was Glenn Ebube Valentine, Shawn's brother.
Target NCAA
Smallwood's teammate on the Islanders, offensive lineman Davray Venu, signed with the Temple Owls of the NCAA in his final days. The latter play their local games at the home stadium of the Philadelphia Eagles. Venu won Most Outstanding Offensive Line honors on the Division 2 collegiate circuit the past two seasons and was recruited by every team in the RSEQ.