Quebec, QC - It was a celebratory spirit on Thursday evening as U SPORTS announced their year end major award winners and All-Canadians for the 2021 Football season.
Defensive Lineman Deionte Knight was named the winner of the J.P. Metra Trophy as the Most Outstanding Lineman of the Year.Â
"It's so exciting, this trophy is a manifestation of the group we have this year and all the hard work they put in fuels me to want to be at my best for them," said Knight "This is honestly two years worth of work that includes the pandemic canceled season where we needed to stay committed to our craft and we definitely did a great job of that,"
The fourth-year Arts and Humanities student led the nation with 7.5 quarterback sacks to go along with his 19 tackles. He also took a fumble recovery 12-yards for a touchdown in the Mustangs regular-season finale at Windsor.
"Deionte deserves this award, he's had a great work ethic here and he is a leader on our team," said Mustangs Head Coach Greg Marshall. "He's gotten better every single week this year and I am proud of what Deionte has accomplished this year."
During his acceptance speech Knight thanked his mother first, his girlfriend second and then his coaches finishing with Defensive Coordinator Paul Gleason calling him a father figure.
"We were trying not to let it slip (that he was going to win) but I think he may have gotten an idea because we kept telling him to have a speech ready and to ensure he thanks his mom," said Gleason "There is no kid who has worked harder and has come so far than Deionte and I am just so proud of him and his accomplishments."
The event also included the recognition of the 1st and 2nd Team All-Canadians who are the top players in their positions across the country. The Mustangs had 8 of their players recognized as the best student athletes in the country.
1st Team All Canadians:
Elliot Beamer (Center)
Savaughn Magnaye-Jones (Receiver)
Deionte Knight (Defensive End)
Daniel Valente Jr. (Free Safety)
2nd Team All Canadians:
Phillip Grohovac (Guard)
Keon Edwards (Running Back)
Zack Fry (Tackle)
Malcolm Hinds (Defensive Tackle)
The Mustangs now look forward to this Saturday when they face off against the Saskatchewan Huskies in the 56th edition of the Vanier Cup at Telus Stadium. Fans can watch the game at 1pm on CBC TV or stream the game at CBCSports.ca.
