CFL.ca Staff
KINGSTON, Ont. — Queen’s football has been known for its defence throughout the years, in the 2011 season it will be because of Sam Sabourin.
The 2010 season was a breakout year for rookie linebacker Sabourin of Stittsville, Ont., as the 6-foot-1, 228 pound Sabourin set a Queen’s school record for solo tackles in a season with 50 all the while becoming a favourite with the tricolour fans.
Sabourin did not waste any time establishing himself with the Gaels. In his first game in the CIS on August 31 against the McMaster Marauders, Sabourin set a school record for solo tackles in a game with 13. People began to take notice of the rookie as the effort was acknowledged with Sabourin being named CIS and OUA defensive player of the week.
His dominance would continue all season long, winning OUA defensive player of the week honours once more (October 12) and finishing the season second in the CIS in solo tackles with 50. Sabourin led all Gaels in tackles in four of his eight regular season games.
“Sam was one of the hardest working guys on our team last year right from the start,” said Head Coach Pat Sheahan. “He proved that he belongs and only got better as the season went on. We expect him to be a key part of our defence this season and with the talent he has it will only make our team better.”
In total, Sabourin finished the season with 50 solo tackles, 64 tackles, two sacks, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery and one interception for 14 yards. With this performance, Sabourin was honoured as the OUA rookie of the year for the 2010 season.
With one year under his belt, Sabourin will look to improve upon the already high standards he set in his rookie season. He has continued to improve his strength and conditioning with a rigorous off-season workout plan that will better his on field skills and athleticism.
With his familiarity with the league and the competiveness needed to achieve the highest levels, Sabourin is expected to establish himself as one of the best defensive linemen in the country in 2011.
Key stats 2010: 50 solo tackles in eight regular season games (1st on team, 2nd in CIS)
Awards & Honours: 2010 OUA rookie of the year
-With files from Queen’s University Sports Information
