The Portage Collegiate Institute (PCI) Trojans football team wrapped up their season with a celebratory banquet on November 18, honouring athletes for their performance on and off the field. This year's event was particularly special, marking a return to in-person celebrations after several years. The event showcased the hard work and dedication of the players who helped the team achieve a successful season.
Head coach Brendon Brydges expressed his pride in the team's growth, noting the strong turnout and spirit of camaraderie.
"It was nice to get everybody together and celebrate the players after such a great season. It's been the first year we've had this event since before COVID, and it was a really special night."
Key award winners and standout players were Kingston Daniels and Kailum Chopp, who each earned coveted Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards. Daniels, a Grade 11 defensive player, was recognized for his leadership and positive attitude on the field.
"He's always smiling and trying to keep the team in the right mindset," said Bridges.
Daniels was also named Mr. Positivity for his positive energy and dedication to the team.
Chopp, a Grade 10 student and quarterback, made an impressive mark in his first season as a starter. After stepping in as backup in the team's first game, Chopp threw for over 1,300 yards and 16 touchdowns, narrowly missing the divisional record. His standout performance earned him the Offensive MVP award, and he is now up for the Football Manitoba AAA Offensive player of the year.
"It was a journey, going from not playing last year to starting and earning MVP. I just wanted to prove myself."
Another key honouree was Deacon O'Ray, who received the Top Lineman of the Year award after a standout season. O'Ray, in his third year with the team, has continuously grown from a most-improved player in Grade 10 to Defensive MVP last year. This year, he demonstrated his versatility by playing every position on both the offensive and defensive lines.
"It's been a journey. I've gone from linebacker to defensive line and now, as a senior, to offensive line. It means a lot to see how far this program has come, and I'm proud to be part of that growth."
O'Ray has also been nominated for the Kas Vidruk AAA Linesman of the Year award.
A historic moment occurred when Destiny Dearlove became the first female player to receive a PCI Trojans football award. Dearlove, a rookie defensive back, started the season as a bench player but worked her way up to a starting position by the end of the year. Her dedication and improvement earned her the Rookie of the Year award.
"I didn't expect it, but I'm really proud," says Dearlove, who made history as the first female athlete to be recognized in this way. "It feels like a good achievement, and I'm excited for what's next."
The evening also celebrated the accomplishments of Logan Deurbrouck, who was named Rookie of the Year with Dearlove for his impressive debut season as a Grade 9 player. Despite being new to the team, Logan held his own against older, more experienced players.
"It's exciting to go up against Grade 12s and really compete. I'm looking forward to what's coming in the next few years."
Deurbrouk is also nominated for the Bob Whitelaw AAA Rookie of the Year award.
As the season draws to a close, the Trojans are already looking ahead to next year. With several players, including Chopp, Dearlove and Deurbrouck, set to return, Brydges says the team is eager to build on their success.
"We're going to miss our seniors, but we have a lot of talent coming back. I'm excited to see how we grow and what we can achieve next season."