Former CFL player Marc-Antoine Dequoy has made a return to competitive football, representing the Canadian men’s team at the International Federation of American Football (IFAF) world flag football championship in Duesseldorf, Germany. Dequoy retired from the CFL in February after playing five seasons for the Montreal Alouettes due to physical concerns about the demands of a full CFL season.
Initially hesitant about flag football, Dequoy eventually decided to give it a try after consulting with friends and playing a few games. He temporarily stepped away from the sport to co-host a television show from March to May. However, Dequoy felt a void and a desire for competition, prompting his return to football.
A CFL all-star and two-time Grey Cup participant, Dequoy faced new challenges in flag football due to the different rules and playing style on a smaller field with five players per side. Adapting to the no-contact rules and flag grabbing techniques proved to be initial hurdles for the seasoned player.
Canada’s participation in the world championship was impacted by Nigeria’s withdrawal due to visa issues, resulting in a revised schedule for the Canadian team against Austria and Japan. The top finishers in the tournament will secure Olympic berths, with the goal of qualifying for the upcoming Olympics in Los Angeles.
Dequoy expressed his excitement about the opportunity to potentially compete at the Olympic level in flag football, highlighting the significance of this new avenue for the sport. The competition serves as a key qualifying event for the Olympics, with athletes aiming to secure their spots in the prestigious global event.