Quebec's governing High School Sports Body (ARSEQ) fumbles ball late in season on player eligibility rules

GATINEAU, QC, Oct. 15, 2013 /CNW/ - While headlines continue warning of the risks associated with childhood obesity --- comes word that ARSEQ (Quebec's governing High School Sports Body) is denying a 13-year-old, Grade 8 student at Hadley Jr. High School in Gatineau the opportunity to play for his school's football team.

The reason: He also plays for a community based team (the Gatineau Vikings); a team that does not fall under the auspices of ARSEQ.

Hadley's receiver and tight end Jack Mclaughlin says, "I don't understand what the big deal is.  I love football, it's my passion. I've worked hard to earn a spot on the teams I play for, and I have worked really hard all season. I just want to play football and represent my school".

However, ARSEQ feels differently.

Ten weeks into the season and only days ahead of Hadley's second-last, regular-season game, Jack Mclaughlin was told by his head coach that Hélène Boucher, Director General at RSEQ had met with him and indicated that any child playing for Football Quebec couldn't play for the RSEQ at the same time.

The end result, Jack can't play for his high school team, and the decision was made by the RSEQ on Jack's behalf.

"This situation is very disappointing" the association never stated (during registration or otherwise) that playing for a community team and a high school team was prohibited states Julia Fournier, Jack Mclaughlin's parent.

"Had we been told, Jack wouldn't have tried out and earned a spot on the Vikings' roster -- he would have simply elected to play for Hadley (his school) exclusively, but he wasn't even extended that courtesy," she added.

"With the football playoffs just a couple of weeks away we are hoping that the RSEQ and all involved will come to their collective senses, and do the right thing and let Jack play or choose what team he wants to play for," said Fournier.

SOURCE: Julia Fournier

RSEQ

Hélène Boucher, Director General
499 Blvd. Labrosse Ste. 210
Gatineau QC

819-643-6663 ext 205 (Voice)

Hadley Hawks

Mr. James Price, Head Coach/Offensive Coordinator
819-776-3158(Voice)
e-mail:[email protected] 
https://sites.google.com/site/hadleyhawksfootball/home

Julia Fournier (Parent of Jack Mclaughlin)

8 Engler Road
Chelsea, Quebec
819-921-5331