Canton destination

Quebec linebacker/running back commits to NCAA Division 3 team.

Hughes Benimana will continue to play south of the border.

The 6’0, 220 pound linebacker/running back from Quebec has committed to NCAA Division 3 team, St Lawrence Saints in Canton, New York.

Benimana had interest from a few Division 1 schools including Maine, New Hampshire, Villanova and Wagner. However, he faced some challenges in his quest for an offer.

“These teams wanted me as a potential strong safety, since I’m a little bit undersized for a linebacker (I’m only 6’0, 220 pounds),” added Benimana.  “I kept talking to the coaches until the dead period, and then I waited for scholarships offers.”

“Since I’m a little bit restricted financially, I was looking for full scholarships, which I didn’t get.”

Soon after, Benimana began looking into NCAA Division 2 and 3 schools as well as two RSEQ teams – McGill Redmen and Vanier Cup Champions Laval Rouge et Or.

“I started looking for schools that could give me a full ride,” recalled Benimana.  “For most schools, I had to take summer classes my grades weren’t high enough as I missed 3 weeks of school and my mom passed away over the last fall.”

This past January, the Quebec standout took in an official visit with the Saints.  Once he stepped foot on the campus, he knew that the Canton, New York Division 3 school is where he wanted to continue the next stage of his academic and gridiron careers.

“They were highly interested and I really like their 4+1 program in Business,” said Benimana.  “Basically I get to do a major (for Benimana, it is a double major –a requirement for students majoring in business) and a master in five years.”

“I didn’t wait to send my application there; I knew it would be a great opportunity. I got accepted into the school, but I had to wait for my financial aid plan because Division 3 schools don’t give athletic scholarship. My financial aid plan was better than the scholarship I had received from the Division 1 schools.  I committed there. In addition of being a good fit for me, St. Lawrence is somewhat closer from my family and this aspect also influenced my final decision.”

For the past two years, Benimana has played for Connecticut prep college team, Kent Lions.  This past season, he was named All-New England Defensive Player MVP and was also selected as a First Team All-Star.  Additionally, he was captain of the team.

Previous to the Lions, Benimana played at the running back position for his high school team, RSEQ Division 1’s Seminaire Saint-Francois Blizzard for five seasons.  In his senior season with the team, Benimana was selected as a league All-Star.

(twitter: http://twitter.com/vohra_ameeta)