Graves, a native of Barrie, Ont., participated in the CFL's evaluation camp in March but was bypassed in last week's Canadian college draft. Graves stood out amongst the three Canadian quarterbacks eligible for this year's draft.

Joining Graves will be senior pivot Kyle Quinlan who guided the McMaster Mauraders to their first Vanier Cup Championship this past season.

Named an AUS all-star this past season at both quarterback and punter, Graves led the league in passing yards (1,856), completions (121), passing TD's (17) and punting average (36.7 yards per punt).

Kyle threw for over 300 passing yards on three occasions this year and added another 179 yards rushing on 32 attempts including a major on the ground. He also had a 29-yard touchdown reception in a week three win over the StFX X-Men.

His 17 passing touchdowns in 2011 were one shy of the Acadia school record of 18, set by former Axemen QB Larry Jusdanis in 1995.

Teammate Jake Thomas will head to Winnipeg this June following his 29th overall draft choice by the Blue Bombers.

Head coach Jeff Cummins is pleased with the calibur of recruits this season and looks forward to training camp set for August.

“We are excited about the upcoming 2012 season and with this announcement that feeling only grows stronger. Our recent 2011 AUS championship has allowed us to be very successful in adding to our current roster a group of very talented student-athletes. We believe this new breed of Axemen will allow us to compete at every position this fall and fill any, and all need positions. I can’t wait until August when we get to turn these guys lose out on Raymond field”

Leading this round of recruits is Bedford, N.S. native Jordan Koch who was named as a Nova Scotia High School All-Star this past season while playing for the C.P. Allen High School Cheetas (more below).

Thomas Troop, a 6', 200 lbs. running back from Banting Memorial High School in Alliston, Ont. will bring size to the Axemen's running game that finished second in the AUS last season (more below).

The defensive unit will be bolstered with teh addition of 6' 220 lbs. linebacker James Mau from Ottawa, Ont.. Mau was an Ontario Varsity Football League all-star last season (more below).

Rounding out the top four of the announced recruits is Izvor Gnjidic, a 6'6" 205 lbs. quarterback from Toronto, Ont. Gnjidic brings size and experience from his play in the OVFL and Richview Collegiate (more below).

Additional 2012 committed student-athletes list:

Stephen Day - 6', 185 lbs. – Running Back - Madison Area High School (Madison, Maine)

Stephen will be coming up North to play for the Axemen after starring for Madison Area High School in Maine.  With a great frame and the ability to bust long runs, Stephen will come into camp looking to compete early and often.

Kyle Douthwright - 6'4”, 300 lbs. - OL - Oromocto High School (Lincoln, N.B.)

Kyle has fantastic size and his leadership abilities that will be a welcome addition to the Axemen Family.  A member of Team New Brunswick and a 2011 New Brunswick High School All-Star, Kyle will be following in the footsteps of current Axemen and former Oromocto High School lineman Ethan Charters.

Jordan Koch - 6'1”, 170 lbs.  - Receiver - C.P. Allen High School (Bedford, N.S.)

Koch is a two-time Nova Scotia High School All-Star and a member of the 2011 Team Nova Scotia Canada Cup Team.  He will add speed to the receiving corps and has the ability to be a factor early in his career at Acadia.

Jacob Hanscom - 6'3", 310 lbs. - Offensive Lineman - Leo Hayes High School (Fredericton, N.B.)

Jacob is a fantastic run blocker who combines great size with a noticeable mean streak.  A 2011 New Brunswick High School All-Star, Jacob is an intelligent football player who is a student of the game and will add much needed size to the OL position.

Robert Adams -n 5’9', 210 lbs. - Running Back - Horton High School (Wolfville, N.S.)

Local talent Robert Adams will be joining the Axemen after starring for Horton High School of the Annapolis Valley.  Robert led all Nova Scotia rushers last year and started for Team Nova Scotia in the 2011 Canada Cup.  A naturally strong kid, Robert should pack on muscle quickly and will be expected to be a physical player for the Axemen.

Andrew Adams - 6'3', 185 lbs. - Quarterback -  C.P. Allen High School (Bedford, NS)

Andrew will be following in the footsteps of his older brother Mike when he steps on campus this fall.  A very good athlete, Andrew played QB this past fall after leading C.P. Allen High School on 2010.  His length allows him to eat up yards and will be expected to stretch the field vertically.

Derek Naugler - 6'2", 210 lbs.- Linebacker - Cobequid Education Centre (Truro, N.S.)

Derek comes to the Axemen from CEC where he played for Coach Scott Annan.  Derek combines a larger frame with the athletic ability to run sideline to sideline.  An aggressive and talented pass rusher Derek’s high motor makes him an explosive athlete who is fun to watch on the field. Derek was a Nova Scotia First Team All-Star in 2011.

Dennis Ivanchenko - 6’6", 260 lbs. -  Defensive Line - Halifax West High School (Halifax, N.S.)

Dennis comes to the Axemen via Halifax West High School.  At 6`6 Dennis is an imposing force on the defensive line.  He brings needed depth to the defensive line and has the ability and versatility to play defensive end or defensive tackle and even swing to the offensive side if need be.

Thomas Troop - 6', 200 lbs. - Running Back - Banting Memorial High School (Cookstown, Ont.)

Thomas is the younger of the two Troop brothers who will be headed to Wolfville this fall.  Thomas has the size and skill set to be a fantastic addition to the Acadia power run game.  A one-cut back, Thomas runs downhill and finishes his runs with authority when not breaking long runs with his 4.6 speed. Thomas will be expected to be an early impact player.

Trent Smith - 6'2", 180 lbs. - Receiver - Oakridge Secondary School (London, Ont.)

Trent Smith will be joining the 2012 Axemen squad after starring for Oakridge Secondary School.  A large receiver with good hands and a multi sport background, Trent will be a great addition to the Axemen family.

Bobby Troop - 6'2",  225 lbs. - Fullback - Wilfrid Laurier University (Cookstown, Ont.)

The elder of the two Troop brothers, Bobby will be transferring to Acadia after dressing every game for the Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks last year.  A true fullback, Bobby will fit in extremely well with the Acadia power run game and will be expected to be an impact player in 2013.

Mitch Graham - 5'10", 185 lbs. - Defensive Back (Kanata, Ont.)

Mitch Graham adds to a growing list of Axemen recruits from the Ontario East Canada cup team.  An aggressive and versatile player, with the ability to play outside linebacker or defensive back in the Axemen defense. A highly decorated football player Mitch was an invitee to the US Army All-American combine and was a standout in the Football University Camp where he was named a FBU "top gun".

James Mau - 6'0", 220 lbs. – Linebacker - Myers Riders (Ottawa, Ont.)

James Mau comes to the Axemen after completing two stellar seasons with the Myers Riders Junior football program in Ottawa.  James is recognized as being one of the most aggressive and physical linebackers in the OVFL.   James was named as an OVFL All-Star and the Athletes in Action All-Star game defensive Most Valuable Player.

Russell Rainey - 5'9', 180 lbs. - Defensive Back - John Abbott (Hawkesbury, Ont.)

Russell is a two year starter for AA CEGEP John Abbott College.  Russell is a physical and rangey player who brings needed depth to the Axemen defensive backfield with the expectations

Connor McCrudden - 6’, 220 lbs - Defensive Line - St. Marks High School (Ottawa, Ont.)

Connor is an athletic and physically strong defensive lineman who is willing to work just like so many other great D linemen

Elie-Joseph Maroun - 5'9", 175 lbs. - Defensive Back - Champlain CEGEP (Gatineau, Que.)

Elie comes to the Axemen after two seasons with the CEGEP Champlain Cougars.  Elie is a very intelligent and athletic defensive back who will push to see action in the 2012 season.  With great cover skills and the will to compete, Elie is another great addition to the defensive backfield.

Brad Hinton - 5’ 8", 165 lbs. - Defensive Back - Myers Riders (Ottawa, Ont.)

Brad is known by his coaches as an incredibly physical and hard hitting free safety.  With an understanding of the game and desire to compete, Brad rounds out an impressive defensive back recruiting class.  Brad is an OVFL All Star and three time Canada Cup team member

Izvor Gnjidic - 6’6", 205 lbs. – Quarterback – Richview Collegiate (Toronto, ON)

As a 2010 OVFL All-Star and a multi-year starter with both Richview Collegiate and the Etobicoke Eagles, Izvor’s experience should assist and ease the transition to the CIS level.  Izvor combines elite size and arm strength with athleticism that should help translate to on the field success early and often in his Acadia career.  With Izvor and Nick Gorgichuk, the 2012 QB recruit class should provide competition in the fall and for many years to come.

Acadia's coaching staff including CIS Coach of the Year Jeff Cummins along with assistants Chris Judd, Peter Fraser and Sean Hall will join the three Axemen for the week of preparation in early May.

Canadian Interuniversity Sport announced Thursday the rosters for the 10th annual East West Bowl, presented by Under Armour, which is set for Saturday, May 12, 2012 at TD Waterhouse Stadium on the campus of Western University in London, Ont.

Official website (including ticket information): http://english.cis-sic.ca/eastwestbowl/2012/index

Western is hosting the game for the fourth straight year. The contest was previously held at McMaster (2008), Laval (2007, 2006) and Wilfrid Laurier (2005, 2004, 2003). Kickoff for the 2012 edition is scheduled for 1 p.m.

In addition to the game itself, the week-long event includes daily practices, the Under Armour Combine for participating players (May 8), the CFL Free Agent Combine for players eligible to attend 2012 CFL training camps and not participating in the East West Bowl (May 9), a coaches clinic featuring presentations by eight CFL coaches (May 11-12), as well as a banquet featuring guest speaker Duane Forde from TSN (May 11).  

Stefan Ptaszek, head coach of the reigning Vanier Cup champion McMaster Marauders, will lead the West team in London, while Glen Constantin, who has guided the Laval Rouge et Or to five national championships in 11 seasons at the helm, will be in charge of the East squad for the second year in a row. Constantin will act as head coach at the Classic for the sixth time overall, including five assignments as sideline boss of the East. 

“On an annual basis, the biggest showcase of Canadian university football talent - players and coaches - occurs at the CIS East West Bowl,” said Ptaszek. “To work with the brightest minds and most gifted student-athletes in our nation is a privilege and an honour. I look forward to the week of festivities and a great football game on May 12th in London.”

The East West Bowl showcases – for the most part - CIS players who will be eligible for the following year’s Canadian Football League draft.

The East side is comprised of student-athletes representing schools from the Atlantic and Quebec conferences, as well as from Queen’s, Ottawa and Toronto. The West contingent is made up of players from Canada West and from the remaining OUA universities.

Nine players who will take the field on May 12 – seven for the West and two for the East - were named CIS all-Canadians last fall, including Calgary running back Steven Lumbala, McMaster wide receiver Michael DiCroce, Regina guard Brett Jones, Regina defensive tackle Stefan Charles, McMaster offensive tackle Matthew Sewell, Calgary defensive tackle Linden Gaydosh, Windsor halfback Matt McGarva, Concordia defensive back and returner Kris Robertson, as well as Sherbrooke halfback Patrick Chénard.

DiCroce merited OUA MVP honours in 2011 after he amassed a CIS-best 904 receiving yards in eight regular season games. The 5-foot-11, 192-pound speedster was also stellar in the Marauders’ first-ever Vanier Cup win with 102 yards on seven catches.

Quarterbacking the East team at TD Waterhouse Stadium will be Mount Allison’s Jake Hotchkiss and Laval’s Tristan Grenon, while Manitoba’s Khaleal Williams is currently the only pivot listed on the West roster.

EAST WEST BOWL NOTES: A few players are expected to be added to the rosters in the coming weeks... The East has won the last two editions, including a 34-27 overtime victory a year ago... The West leads the all-time series 6-3... Past East West Bowl participants include Hec Crighton Trophy winners Billy Greene of UBC, Brad Sinopoli of Ottawa, Benoit Groulx of Laval, Daryl Stephenson of Windsor, Andy Fantuz of Western, Jesse Lumsden of McMaster and Tommy Denison of Queen’s... Other notables include current NFL players Cory Greenwood of Kansas City (Concordia), Joel Reinders of the New York Giants (Waterloo), Vaughn Martin of San Diego (Western) and Jon Ryan of Seattle (Regina), as well as former Calgary Dino Dan Federkeil, who earned a Super Bowl ring as a member of the Indianapolis Colts in 2007...

EAST WEST BOWL RESULTS:

2011 (at Western): East 34, West 27 (OT)
2010 (at Western): East 12, West 9
2009 (at Western): West 16, East 7
2008 (at McMaster): East 25, West 12
2007 (at Laval): West 22, East 19 (OT)
2006 (at Laval): West 34, East 26 (OT)
2005 (at Laurier): West 34, East 16
2004 (at Laurier): West 21, East 12
2003 (at Laurier): West 10, East 5

2012 EAST WEST BOWL SCHEDULE OF EVENTS (all times ET):

Monday, May 7
Arrival of players and coaches

Tuesday, May 8
9:00-12:00 (TDW Stadium): Under Armour Combine (participating players) *
15:30-17:30 (TDW Stadium): Practice

Wednesday, May 9
9:30-11:30 (TDW Stadium): Practice
15:30-17:30 (TDW Stadium): Practice
16:00-20:00 (TDW Stadium): CFL Free Agent Combine (non-participating players) *

Thursday, May 10
9:30-11:30 (TDW Stadium): Practice
15:30-17:30 (TDW Stadium): Practice

Friday, May 11
9:30-11:30 (TDW Stadium): Practice
12:00-22:00 (TDW Stadium): Coaches Clinic
14:00-15:00 (TDW Stadium): East Practice
15:00-16:00 (TDW Stadium): West Practice
18:30 (Perth Hall – Western University): Banquet (guest speaker: Duane Forde from TSN)

Saturday, May 12
8:00-16:30 (TDW Stadium): Coaches Clinic (including game)
13:00 (TDW Stadium): East West Bowl

* Moved to BMO Center if it rains

2012 EAST WEST BOWL ROSTERS

EAST TEAM

Pos.     Name                                      University       HT       WT      Hometown

Offence

QB       Jake Hotchkiss                         Mt. Allison       6-4       225      Lloydminster, Sask.
QB       Tristan Grenon                         Laval               6-3       220      Quebec City, Que.
RB       Zack Skibin                             Acadia             5-10     213      Edmonton, Alta.
RB       Rotrand Sené                           Montreal          5-10     195      Montreal, Que.
RB       Brendan Gillanders                  Ottawa             5-11     203      Orleans, Ont.
REC     Seydou Junior Haïdara            Laval               6-1       233      Quebec City, Que.      
REC     Simon Le Marquand                Ottawa             6-1       199      Gatineau, Que.                        
REC     Justin Chapdelaine                   Queen’s           6-0       187      Abbotsford, B.C.
REC     Gabriel Goulet                         Sherbrooke      6-1       196      Lévis, Que.
REC     Yannick Morin-Plante              Laval               6-0       190      Drummondville, Que.
REC     Paul de Pass                             Toronto            5-11     185      Ajax, Ont.
REC     Michael Harrington                  Concordia        5-11     194      LaSalle, Que.
REC     Guillaume Rioux                     Laval               5-9       175      Paris, France
OL       Adam Hughes                          Bishop’s          6-5       305      Brampton, Ont.
OL       Alex Healy                              Mt. Allison       6-3       280      Mississauga, Ont.
OL       Taylor Servais                          Ottawa             6-4       300      Ottawa, Ont.
OL       Robert Ravensbergen               McGill             6-4       295      Montreal, Que.
OL       Josh Prinsen                             Queen’s           6-8       303      Napanee, Ont.
OL       Matthew Albright                     Saint Mary’s    6-5       295      Dartmouth, N.S.                      
Defence

DL       Jean-Alexandre Bernier           Laval               6-3       300      St. Eustache, Que.
DL       John Miniaci                            Queen’s           6-1       287      Toronto, Ont.
DL       Emmanuel Thériault                Sherbrooke      6-4       220      Joliette, Que.
DL       Jonathan Langma                     StFX                6-2       275      Mississauga, Ont.
DL       Elie Ngoyi                                Bishop’s          6-2       270      Sherbrooke, Que.
DL       James Bodanis                         Toronto            6-5       295      Toronto, Ont.
DL       David Ménard                          Montreal          6-1       260      Chicoutimi, Que.
LB       Tyler Lavin                             McGill             6-1       220      Nanaimo, B.C.
LB       Brett Hubbeard                        StFX                6-0       230      Peterborough, Ont.
LB       Kyle Norris                              Saint Mary’s    6-3       232      Stittsville, Ont.
LB       Alex Graham                           Acadia             6-2       200      Ottawa, Ont.
LB       Antoine Pruneau                      Montreal          6-1       185      Montreal, Que.
LB       Joffrey Gorin                           McGill             5-10     195      Christ Church, Barb.
DB       Cameron Wade                        Acadia             6-2       200      Moncton, N.B.
DB       Ryland Smith                           Bishop’s          6-0       195      Brampton, Ont.
DB       Nathan Taylor                          Concordia        5-9       187      LaSalle, Que.
DB       Tyler Nadolny                         Mt. Allison       5-10     175      Dorchester, N.B.
DB       T.J. Chase-Dunawa                  Queen’s           5-8       162      Toronto, Ont.  
DB       Patrick Chénard                       Sherbrooke      6-0       193      Montreal, Que.
DB       Dominique Comtois                 StFX                5-10     175      Drummondville, Que.
DB       Neil King                                 Saint Mary’s    6-0       195      Sherwood Park, Alta.
DB       Kevin Kinahan                        Toronto            5-11     185      Whitby, Ont.
DB       Kris Robertson                         Concordia        5-7       183      Montreal, Que.

Special Teams

K         Brett Lauther                            Saint Mary’s    6-1       195      Truro, N.S.

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Glen Constantin, Laval

Assistant coaches: Jeff Cummins (Acadia), Peter Fraser (Acadia), Chris Judd (Acadia), Sean Hall (Acadia), Kevin Mackey (Bishop’s), Gerry McGrath (Concordia), Phil Roberts (Concordia), Clint Uttley (McGill), Ronald Hilaire (Montreal), Kelly Jeffrey (Mount Allison), Jean-Philippe Asselin (Ottawa), Pat Sheahan (Queen’s), Pat Tracey (Queen’s), Ryan Bechmanis (Queen’s), David Lessard (Sherbrooke), Devin Murphy (Saint Mary’s), Gary Waterman (StFX), Jon Svec (StFX), Tom Flaxman (Toronto), Jeff LaForge (Toronto), Donnavan Carter (Toronto).
           
WEST TEAM

Pos.     Name                                      University       HT       WT      Hometown

Offence

QB       Khaleal Williams                     Manitoba         6-1       210      Winnipeg, Man.
RB       Steven Lumbala                       Calgary            5-11     215      Calgary, Alta.
RB       Smith Wright                            Alberta             6-2       230      Calgary, Alta.
RB       Isaac Dell                                 Laurier             6-1       212      Niagara Falls, Ont.
REC     Jess Valleau                             Alberta             6-0       195      Wainwright, Alta.        
REC     Alex Anthony                          Laurier             6-2       195      Victoria, B.C.
REC     Michael DiCroce                      McMaster         5-11     192      Hamilton, Ont.
REC     Jared Janotta                            Regina             6-3       212      Regina, Sask.
REC     Nick Anapolsky                       Waterloo          5-9       170      Guelph, Ont.
REC     Evan Pszczonak                       Windsor           6-0       160      Amherstburg, Ont.
REC     Will Austin                              York                6-1       173      St. Catharines, Ont.
OL       Jakob Piotrowski                     Guelph             6-4       293      Shanty Bay, Ont.        
OL       Scott Johnson                          Manitoba         6-5       290      Chilliwack, B.C.
OL       Matthew Sewell                       McMaster         6-8       340      Milton, Ont.
OL       Brett Jones                               Regina             6-2       305      Weyburn, Sask.
OL       Steve Zakrzewski                     UBC                6-3       240      Delta, B.C.
OL       Eric Armitage                           Western           6-4       308      London, Ont.
OL       Matt Vonk                               Waterloo          6-3       262      Burlington, Ont.

Defence

DL       Linden Gaydosh                      Calgary            6-4       305      Peace River, Alta.
DL       Cameron Thorn                       Guelph             6-5       290      Midhurst, Ont.
DL       Lauren Kroeker                       Manitoba         6-5       245      Stonewall, Man.
DL       Stefan Charles                         Regina             6-5       302      Oshawa, Ont.
DL       Joel Seutter                              Saskatchewan  6-1       230      Sherwood Park, Alta.
DL       Kareem Ba                               UBC                6-3       220      White Rock, B.C.
DL       Brent Wheeler                          Western           6-3       250      Hamilton, Ont.
DL       Garrit Post                                Windsor           6-4       210      Waterloo, Ont.
DL       Djordje Gavrilovic                   Waterloo          6-5       266      Waterloo, Ont.            
DL       Steven Giang                           Alberta             6-1       280      Edmonton, Alta.         
LB       Tom Spoletini                          Calgary            6-2       205      Calgary, Alta.
LB       Ben D’Aguilar                         McMaster         6-2       235      Hamilton, Ont.
LB       Pawel Kruba                            Western           5-11     210      Windsor, Ont.
LB       Seamus Neary                          Saskatchewan  5-8       195      Regina, Sask.
DB       Felix Odum                              Laurier             6-1       195      Pickering, Ont.
DB       Michael Daly                           McMaster         6-0       185      Kitchener, Ont.
DB       Mike Spence                            Western           5-10     180      Burlington, Ont.
DB       Luke Thiel                               Saskatchewan 5-10     202      Regina, Sask.
DB       Joey Cupido                            McMaster         5-10     175      Hamilton, Ont.            
DB       Bryan Rideout                         UBC                6-2       180      Victoria, B.C.
DB       Jamie Symianick                      Western           5-11     175      Montreal, Que.
DB       Matt McGarva                          Windsor           6-0       175      Surrey, B.C.

Special Teams

K         Lirim Hajrullahu                      Western           6-0       190      St. Catharines, Ont.

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Stefan Ptaszek, McMaster

Assistant coaches: Blake Nill (Calgary), Kevin MacNeill (Guelph), Greg Butler (Guelph), Gary Jeffries (Laurier), Ryan Pyear (Laurier), Brian Dobie (Manitoba), Sheldon Neald (Regina), Brian Towriss (Saskatchewan), Jason Sulz (Saskatchewan), Shawn Olson (UBC), Joe Paopao (Waterloo), Joe D’Amore (Windsor), Warren Craney (York), Michael Faulds (York), Harry Laflamme (York), Mike Comeau (York), Jeff Stead (Alberta), Greg Marshall (Western).

The first round of recruits includes nine from the Ottawa region, four from the Halifax Region and two from Western Canada.

Suleiman Semalulu - 5'9”,  180 lbs. - Cornerback - (Gatineau, Que.)
Suleiman is a versatile, athletic corner that comes to Acadia by way of Lennoxville, QC where he was a starter for the Champlain Cougars in 2010, prior to starting for the Ottawa Sooners this past season. The Gatineau native has athleticism, strength, and coverage abilities to see the field early in his career, and will bring needed depth to the Axemen secondary.

Will Wojcik - 5'9,  175 lbs. – Defensive Back - (Orleans, Ont.)
Will Wojcik has the versatility to play any position in the defensive secondary for Acadia.  An Ontario Varsity Football League (OVFL) All-Star for the Cumberland Panthers, Will also started for team Ontario East in last summer’s Canada Cup. Will is an extremely athletic, rangy, and intelligent football player who will be a mainstay in the defensive secondary for years to come

Harrison Da Costa - 5'10”,  185 lbs. – Defensive Back (Ottawa, Ont.)
Harrison Da Costa was another member of Team Ontario East that will be suiting up this fall for the Axemen. Harrison is an extremely physical defensive back that is athletic enough to cover and play in space and tenacious enough to come into the box and be a factor in stopping the run. He has the skill set that fits in perfectly with the Axemen defense and has the ability to see the field early and often in the fall of 2012

Prenel Cave - 6'1”, 190 lbs. – Defensive Back (Ottawa, Ont.)
Prenel Cave is an outstanding defensive back/returner that will add needed speed to the Axemen defense and special teams. An OFC Defensive All-Star with the Ottawa Sooners, Prenel also lead the OFC in punt return yards. He is recognized for his intensity and competitive style of play. Prenel will be an exciting addition to the Axemen that brings big play potential at any time.

Chris Fanning - 6'3" 285 lbs. – Offensive Line (Ottawa)
Chris has been an All-Star for every team he has played for, from high school to OVFL, and was named the outstanding lineman at the AIA All-Star game in Eastern Ontario.  He is very strong for a young man and has a mean streak that should help him compete early at the CIS level.

Kevin Conquest - 6'5”, 315 lbs. – Offensive Line (Ottawa, Ont.)
Kevin will be joining the 2012 Axemen after being recruited for much of last season.  He was a starter in the Eastern Ontario AIA All-Star game at left tackle, which only goes to show his agility for a big man.  Kevin should fit in well with Acadia’s downhill run game and will expected to play early in his career.

Nick Gorgichuk - 6', 190 lbs. – Quarterback (Ottawa, Ont.)
Nick will be joining the Axemen this fall after playing for the Myers Riders of the OVFL and starting for Team Ontario East at the 2011 Canada Cup in Lethbridge.  Nick is a very athletic quarterback who has also played receiver in his career.  He is a great thrower on the move but showcased the ability to be a highly effective pocket passer as well.  Nick will be a great addition to the 2012 Axemen where he will compete and push to dress early.

Josh Evans - 6'5”,  270 lbs. – Offensive Line (Niagara Falls, Ont.)
Josh was a starter for the Niagara Spears of the OVFL in 2011 where he played for former Axeman Steve Patrick.  Josh has experience playing at all spots across the offensive line which, along with his large stature, should help him compete for playing time sooner rather than later at Acadia. 

De'Shawn States - 5'11”, 170 lbs. – Defensive Back - (Dartmouth, N.S.)
De’Shawn is a Nova Scotia product was a two way starter for the Dartmouth High Spartans. He combines a natural athletic ability and an intense desire to be the best that all he does. De’Shawn is a NSAFF All-Star, and a member of team Nova Scotia. Regarded as one of the best defensive backs in Nova Scotia, we are excited that he has chosen to stay home and join the Axemen family.

Marcus MacIsaac - 6'3”, 265 lbs. – Offensive Line (Elmsdale, N.S.)
Marcus followed a stellar 2011 Canada Cup as a starter for Team Nova Scotia with an All-Star selection this past season as a member of the Lockview Dragons.  Marcus moves very well for his size which adds tremendous upside to what should be a great CIS career.

Bennett Gaskin – 6’4”, 280 lbs. – Offensive Line  (Halifax, N.S.)
Bennett has decided to join the Axemen after a spectacular high school career in which his team, the Citadel Phoenix, won 4 provincial championships.  Bennett was a member of Team Nova Scotia in the 2010 Canada Cup played in Wolfville and was is a two time Nova Scotia high school football All-Star.  He will be expected to get on the field early.

Brian Jones - 6'4”,  215 lbs. – Receiver  (Grande Lake, N.S.)
Brian was a member and a starter of Team Nova Scotia at the 2011 Canada Cup where he was awarded offensive player of the game against Saskatchewan.  He followed up his Canada Cup performance with an All-Star selection while playing for the Lockview High School Dragons this past fall.  Brian is a tall, athletic and physical receiver who has the skill set to be an early impact player

Harland Hastings – 5’ 11”, 165 lbs. Defensive Back (Calgary, Alta.)
Harland is a nationally competitive gymnast who got a late start on the gridiron and became a Calgary Division 2 All-Star in his first season. He is a great athlete that will mature into a great player for the Axemen.

Matt Davidson  - 6'6”,  285 lbs. – Offensive Line - (Kamloops, B.C.)
Matt will be transferring to Acadia after signing and dressing with Simon Fraser 2 years ago and starting at left tackle for the Kamloops Broncos this past season.  He has very good feet for a big man and will be expected to push to get on the field early in his Acadia career.

With the weather accommodating, the Axemen football team surpassed their record collection set last season of over $5000 with a collection of $7400. The football team has collected well over $80,000 over the last 16 years and will continued to do so for the Alzheimer's Society of Nova Scotia.

Head Coach Jeff Cummins points out the importance of the effort put forward by the team each year. “We are very pleased to be able to contribute to the ALzheimer’s drive. It is something we believe in and this disease is something our society can do without. I hope that next year we will be able to do more, but to date this is the best Acadia Football has ever done, so for that I am really proud of this team and want to thank all of those who contributed! Winning isn’t something done once in awhile, it’s got to be everyday in everything we do. We won tonight!”

The team has not missed a year since the Drive began as an AUS Football initiative in 1997.

The four were invited to attend the evaluation camp that prepares CFL scouts for the ensuing CFL Draft on May 8.  Head Coach Jeff Cummins is thrilled to see as many as four attending. “In my 11 seasons we have had a handful of players attend the E-camp. This year we have a handful in one year… It’s rewarding to see our players recognized for all of the hard work they put in during the season and in the winter. I think all four very talented players are being given a great opportunity to fulfill their  boyhood dreams of playing professional football.”

Graves led the league in passing yards (1,856), completions (121), passing TD's (17) and punting average (36.7 yards per punt).

Kyle threw for over 300 passing yards on three occasions this year and added another 179 yards rushing on 32 attempts including a major on the ground. He also had a 29-yard touchdown reception in a week three win over the StFX X-Men.

His 17 passing touchdowns in 2011 were one shy of the Acadia school record of 18, set by former Axemen QB Larry Jusdanis in 1995.

Thomas wraps up his fourth season with the Axemen program with 17.5 career sacks, the second most in conference history.

The 2011 season saw Jake register 29.5 tackles, a forced fumble, a career-high 9.0 sacks and his 14.0 tackles for a loss led the Atlantic conference.

Thomas is excited with the opportunity of competing infront of the CFL scouts. "Being invited to the e camp is probably my biggest honour so far in my university career. It's a giant step forward to being able to hopefully one day playing in the CFL. Ever since being a child I have dreamed about playing in the CFL and winning the Grey Cup. Its going to be a great opportunity to expose myself to the CFL teams. It's really exciting going through the process with three other teammates, especially when it comes to all of the training and preparation that we have been doing together.

Tyler Honeywood and Brett Haenni are senior players in their draft year. While Haenni was injured for part of the season, the 6'1" 230 lbs. running back has attracted attention from the CFL scouting circles. Honeywood, who was an AUS All-Star offensive lineman this past season is one of the more athletic offensive linemen in the AUS and knows the game well, suiting himself up as a potential CFL centre.

The accomplishments as a first year coordinator and fourth season as an assistant will be sorely missed, following his acceptance of a position as offensive co-ordinator with the University of Toronto Varsity Blues. Flaxman has made a contractual obligation, yet to be officially announced, to assist Varsity Blues head coach Greg Gary this coming season.

This past season, Judd and Flaxman were responsible for a 423.2 years per game average offensive output along with the AUS's top passing offense with a 247.8 yards per game average.

Flaxman, who transfered from McMaster in 2004, was a running back with the Acadia Axemen from 2005 to 2007, winning AUS Championships in 2005 and 2006.

Tom’s previous coaching experience was with the Mississauga Warriors of the OVFL from 2004 – 2009 where he won three championships in 6 years.  Tom took a year off before returning this past summer to be the Offensive Coordinator for the Warriors at the varsity level.  While coaching in Mississauga his duties varied from position to position and he gained valuable experience.

Head Coach Jeff Cummins points out the importance that Flaxman played in Acadia's success this season. "Tom has become a great coach over the last 4 years and it doesn’t surprise me that he has been selected as the new Offensive Coordinator at U of T. One of the many reasons we were successful this year was because of the great assistant coaches we have at Acadia and Tom is living proof of that." 

Cummin's added some parting words, "We have been fortunate to keep Tom the last few years as his home is the GTA and this move will allow him to be closer to family, I am very proud of Tom and his accomplishments here and going forward."

The 23-year-old Squires, who has also spent time in the CIS with Mount Allison and Waterloo, had his best season in 2011 with 31 receptions for 432 yards and a league-high seven touchdowns.

A big target at six-foot-four, he had four majors in a single game in October to help the Axemen defeat the Saint Mary’s Huskies. Read More>

Cummins and Heap were honoured in front of over 700 guests during the Vanier Cup championship breakfast at the Vancouver Convention Centre.

The 47^th Vanier Cup final between Laval and McMaster is set for 6 p.m. Pacific Time at B.C. Place Stadium, live on TSN and RDS. The pre-game show kicks off at 5:30 p.m. PST on TSN.

For all the info on CIS football: www.cis-sic.ca and www.vaniercup.com

FRANK TINDALL TROPHY – Jeff Cummins (Acadia)

Cummins became only the second Acadia sideline boss to claim the Frank Tindall trophy. He follows in the footsteps of John Huard, who was honoured by his CIS peers in 1981.

In his ninth season at the helm, the native of Torrance, California, guided his troops to a first-place finish in the AUS conference with a 7-1 record, marking a three-win improvement from a year ago and the team’s best campaign since 1986 (7-0). It was also the program’s first winning season since 2006. Acadia went on to defeat archrival Saint Mary’s 39-20 in the Loney Bowl final to capture its first league championship in five years.

In addition to his head coaching duties, Cummins, who was previously named AUS coach of the year in 2004 and 2005, switched back to the offensive side of the ball this season and took charge of the offensive line. To say the move paid off would be an understatement as the Axemen scored 282 points in eight games, more than doubling their tally from 2010 (134).

Following a playing career with the University of Oregon Ducks, Cummins coached for 11 years in the professional ranks including stints in the NFL, CFL, AFL and XFL. Since he took over as Acadia’s bench boss, he has compiled a career record of 36 wins and 36 losses in conference play, along with a 6-7 playoff mark.

“There is no one more deserving of this national recognition than Jeff Cummins,” said Acadia director of athletics Kevin Dickie. “Jeff is not only passionate about the game of football but also about Acadia Athletics. He continues to champion the history and tradition of his own program, while supporting all of our other varsity teams. He is not only focused on the development of his student-athletes on the field, but also in the classroom and in our community. As a senior coach in our department, Jeff has been invaluable to me as the AD at Acadia. We are extremely proud of Jeff and our team’s 2011 season.”

Sherbrooke’s André Bolduc, Windsor’s Joe D’Amore and UBC’s Shawn Olson were the other finalists for the Frank Tindall trophy.

RUSS JACKSON AWARD – Dillon Heap (Wilfrid Laurier)

Heap is the second Laurier player to win the prestigious Russ Jackson award, after Josh Alexander in 2001.

On the field, the 5-foot-10, 175-pound senior was the Golden Hawks’ leading receiver and kick returner in his fifth and final university campaign, racking up 40 catches for 625 yards in eight league games as well as 458 yards on 40 punt returns and 121 yards on six kickoff returns en route to second-team all-Canadian status. Over the course of the season, he became only the third player in CIS history to reach the 2000-yard career mark in punt returns (2,113).

Heap was also one of the Hawks’ top performers in the classroom, holding a cumulative grade point average of 10.07 during his time at Laurier in the school’s business program. Last year, the native of Waterloo was honoured with Laurier’s Luke Fuscop Academic Athletic Achievement Award for the second consecutive year as the university’s top academic male athlete. He was also selected as a CIS Top Eight Academic All-Canadian for 2010-11.

Heap does extensive work within the community of Waterloo and completed a two-year mission in Concepcion, Chile, in 2007. He serves as the executive secretary for President James A. McBride of the Kitchener Ontario Stake, teaches Sunday school at the branch, and is the president of the Latter-Day Saints Association at Wilfrid Laurier. As president, he acts as the liaison between the university and the Kitchener Ontario Institute of Religion in order to hold weekend classes on campus. Before this, he also served as the president of Elders Quorum in the Kitchener 3^rd Young Single Adult Branch, leading 20 peers for a year.

“Dillon is one of the best athletes ever in our program. He was named to Laurier’s All-Century team while he was still a member of the football program,” said Hawks’ head coach Gary Jeffries. “However, what sets him apart from many great athletes is the fact that he is an ‘A’ student who has mentored fellow student-athletes and is a true leader in the community and at his church.”

Acadia’s Andrew Frazer, McGill’s Austin Anderson and Regina’s Brett Jones were also nominated for the Russ Jackson award.

Fourth year quarterback Kyle Graves rushed for three touchdowns as Acadia ended Saint Mary’s championship streak with a convincing win over the visiting Huskies in front of 2835 fans.

Striking first on a 10 yard run by Graves that was set up by a Zack Skibin's 66 yard dash for open space, the Axemen took an early 7-0 lead after only two minutes expired in the game clock.

The Huskies responded quickly at 5:41 when Jameek Taylor hauled in a pass from Jack Creighton and posted a 51 yard run to tie the game at seven. Brett Lauther added a 10 yard field goal to take the first and only Huskie lead of the day.

Graves added his second touchdown run of the day on a 15 yard run to give Acadia a 14-10 lead and rookie kicker Ryan Begin added two rouges and two field goals to push Acadia to a 22-10 lead.

The Axemen, who avenged a 37-8 loss to Saint Mary’s in last year’s AUS championship match, led 22-10 at the half and never looked back en route to capturing their first title since back-to-back banners in 2005 and 2006.

Graves added his third touchdown of the day on a 10 yard run that was set up by reception of 17 and 25 by Mike Squires and senior Stu Clow respectively. Huskie Devon Jones capped off a 84 yard drive on a six yard touchdown run to make it interesting at 29-17 in the third quarter and Lauther added a 37 yard field goal to bring a cheer of support for the visiting Huskies.

Begin's third field goal from 17 yards out at the mid-point of the fourth quarter and Zack Skibin's late fourth quarter touchdown that began off of a Chris Cull interception return, nailed the coffin shut for the Huskies.

Graves, the AUS player of the year from Barrie, Ont., finished with 78 rushing yards on 10 carries and completed 12 of 16 passes for 170 yards, with no interceptions. Running back Zack Skibin also starred in the victory with 147 yards and one major on 27 runs as Acadia dominated 315 yards to 71 in the ground game.

Creighton racked up 251 yards on 17-of-30 passing but was intercepted twice. Taylor was his favourite target and finished with 108 yards on six catches.

Acadia had 25 first downs to Saint Mary’s 15. Graves’ found Stu Clow for four receptions and a team high 96 yards in receiving while AUS All-Star Zack Skibin led Acadia with 147 yards on the ground on 21 carries.

Head Coach Jeff Cummins was humble with the win. "We have played the Huskies four times this season and we have got to know each other pretty well. They are a good team and we took advantage of some opportunities were relentless on defense. I am very proud of our performance today and our assistant coaches deserve a lot of credit for their hard work. We will do our best to prepare a very hungry team for the Uteck Bowl."

The 8-1 Axemen will prepare to meet the 9-1 McMaster Mauraders  this coming Friday night in Moncton for the CIS Uteck Bowl starting at 7:30pm. McMaster defeated the Western Mustangs  41-19 in the OUA championship game.

The Acadia Axemen took home five of the conference's top awards announced today, including quarterback Kyle Graves who was named the AUS outstanding player of the year.

OUSTANDING PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Kyle Graves, Acadia (Chris Flynn Trophy)

Quarterback Kyle Graves of the CIS No. 9-ranked Acadia Axemen is the 2011 Atlantic University Sport most outstanding player.

Graves, a fourth-year student from Barrie, Ont., who was named an AUS all-star this week at both quarterback and punter, led the league in passing yards (1,856), completions (121), passing TD's (17) and punting average (36.7 yards per punt).

Kyle threw for over 300 passing yards on three occasions this year and added another 179 yards rushing on 32 attempts including a major on the ground. He also had a 29-yard touchdown reception in a week three win over the StFX X-Men.

His 17 passing touchdowns in 2011 were one shy of the Acadia school record of 18, set by former Axemen QB Larry Jusdanis in 1995.

"Kyle has matured into a leader and is one of the best of quarterbacks we have had the pleasure to coach," says Acadia head coach Jeff Cummins. "He has become a complete and selfless player who does what is best for the team. He has developed the ability to know when to throw and when to run and has become not only a great athlete but also a great football player."

Ivan Birungi (2005, '06) and Blaine Scatcherd (1999) are the most recent Axemen to be named the conference's player of the year.

Former Saint Mary's QB Erik Glavic and former Mount Allison star Eric Lapointe are the most recent Atlantic conference players to take home the Hec Crighton Trophy as the outstanding player in CIS. Lapointe won the award both in 1996 and 1998 while Glavic was the 2007 recipient.

OUTSTANDING DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Tom Labenski, Acadia (Tony Proudfoot Trophy)

Acadia linebacker Tom Labenski has been selected as the 2011 AUS outstanding defensive player of the year.
Tom, a native of Oakville, Ont., is a fifth-year linebacker and a three-time conference all-star. The 6-foot-0, 225-pound senior led the Axemen with 44.0 tackles in 2011 and wraps up his university career with 178.0 tackles, the third highest career total in conference history.

Labenski also had three sacks, one forced fumble and two fumble recoveries this season for the 7-1 Axemen, and added one interception, which he returned 37 yards for a score in a week two victory over the McGill Redmen.

Selected to participate in the 2009 CIS East-West Bowl hosted by McMaster University, Tom also holds the Acadia record for most tackles in a single season with 66.0, a mark he established in 2010.

"A brilliant person on and off the field, Tom has come into his own and has taken a large leadership role on the defensive side of the ball," says Acadia head coach Jeff Cummins. "His experience playing in the IFAF Senior World Championship has helped him grow as a player and a person. He discovered what it is like to be professional and a leader. He will be sorely missed this season as he moves on to study in the field of medicine."

Labenski will represent the conference as the AUS nominee for the Presidents’ Trophy. Acadia's Steve Faoro (2005, '06) and Eric Nielson (2004) are the most recent Acadia players to be named the AUS Defensive Player of the Year. Former StFX star is Henoc Muamba is the most recent Atlantic conference winner of Presidents Trophy, which he was awarded in last season.

ROOKIE OF THE YEAR: Jacob LeBlanc, Mount Allison

Defensive lineman Jacob LeBlanc of the Mount Allison Mounties is the 2011 Atlantic University Sport football rookie of the year.

A first-year Arts student from Halifax, N.S., Jacob has had an immediate impact with the Mounties defence, picking up 30.5 tackles, 9.0 of which were for a loss and finishing fourth in the league with 5.0 sacks.

Named a 2011 AUS all-star at defensive tackle earlier this week, LeBlanc also recovered two fumbles and was credited with a pass break-up.

Prior to joining the Mounties, Jacob was selected as an all-star at the 2010 Canada Cup and is a product of J.L. Ilsley High School in Halifax, where he was named the athlete of the year in his senior year.

Mounties' head coach Kelly Jeffrey was happy with his performance in 2011.

"Jacob has improved every single week in our program," says Jeffrey. "His drive and desire to get better every practice are unmatched. Jacob has the intangible gifts that you want to go along with a dominating physical presence. With his athletic talents and coachability, he has the skill set to be a dominant player year in and year out."

Former Mount Allison linebacker Sebastien Roy is the most recent Mounties player to be named the Atlantic conference rookie of the year (1999).

Roy and former StFX defensive back Jeremy Steeves (2001) are the most recent Atlantic conference winners of the Peter Gorman Trophy as the top Rookie in CIS football.

OUTSTANDING LINEMAN OF THE YEAR: Jake Thomas, Acadia

The Atlantic University Sport outstanding lineman of the year is fourth-year Acadia defensive lineman Jake Thomas.
Thomas, a 6-foot-2, 275-pound native of Douglas, N.B., was named a 2010 and 2011 AUS all-star at defensive tackle, and wraps up his fourth season with the Axemen program with 17.5 career sacks, the second most in conference history.

The 2011 season saw Jake register 29.5 tackles, a forced fumble, a career-high 9.0 sacks and his 14.0 tackles for a loss led the Atlantic conference.

Thomas, who's brother Josh was the 1998 recipient of this same award, started the 2011 season in July by winning a silver medal as a member of Team Canada at the IFAF World Senior Football Championships in Austria. He also participated in the CIS East-West Bowl hosted by Western in May.

"I consider Jake to be the best defensive lineman I have coached in the 11 years I have been at Acadia," says Axemen head coach Jeff Cummins. "He is tenacious, athletic, aggressive and the strongest player I have coached at that position and he is only 20 years old. He's willing to do what is needed and is not scared of doing what's needed. Jake has built an impressive resume at a young age and is a great representative for the J.P. Metras Trophy."

Thomas will represent the conference as the nominee for the J.P. Metras Trophy which was last brought back to the AUFC in 1997 when StFX's Mike Kushnir was named the CIS's top lineman. The last Acadia player to be named AUS Lineman of the Year was offensive lineman Adrian Saturley, who took home the award last season.

COACH OF THE YEAR: Jeff Cummins, Acadia (Larry Uteck Trophy)

Acadia head coach Jeff Cummins guided the CIS No. 9-ranked Axemen to a 7-1 regular season record and a first place finish for the first time since 2006, and been chosen by his peers as the Atlantic conference Coach of the Year.

Cummins, now in his ninth year at the helm of the Axemen program, is being recognized as the AUS coach of the year for the third time. He was previously named the AUS coach of the year in both 2004 and 2005.

The seven wins in regular season play are the most by an Acadia head coach since the 1986 season when Sonny Wolfe led the Axemen to a perfect 7-0 record.

This year, his Acadia squad led the conference in passing offense with 1,982 yards and 18 passing TD's, while allowing a league-low 108 points against. The 108 points against are the fewest points allowed by an Axemen team since the 1988 season, when Acadia held their opponents to just 95 points in seven regular season games.

"There is no one more deserving of this award than Jeff Cummins," says Acadia Director of Athletics Kevin Dickie. "He is not only passionate about the game of football but also about Acadia Athletics. He wears his passion for Acadia on his sleeve every day. Jeff is focused on the development of his student-athletes in the classroom and on the field, and as a senior coach in our department, he has be absolutely invaluable to me as a new Director at Acadia University."

Since becoming head coach of the Axemen seven seasons ago, Jeff has posted a career record of 41 wins and 43 losses (regular season and post-season play) heading into this weekend's Loney Bowl.

As a defensive lineman, Cummins played in the Canadian Football League on various teams including: Las Vegas, Ottawa, Toronto and finishing with the 1999 Grey Cup champion Hamilton Tiger Cats. He graduated from the University of Oregon in 1992.

A native of Torrance, California, Jeff lives in Wolfville with his wife Karen, son Joshua and daughter Sydney.

The most recent AUS coach to receive the CIS coach of the year award was Saint Mary’s Huskies head coach Steve Sumarah who won the award in 2009.

STUDENT-ATHLETE COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD: Andrew Frazer, Acadia

Andrew Frazer (Mississauga, Ont.) of the Acadia Axemen is the 2011 Atlantic University Sport Student-Athlete Community Service Award recipient and will be the conference nominee for the prestigious Russ Jackson Award.

Named after CFL quarterback Russ Jackson, this award recognizes a Canadian university football player who excels on the field, in academics, and in community service.

Frazer, a 5-foot-11, 275-pound defensive lineman is a two-time academic all-Canadian with a cumulative GPA of 3.5. He is a team captain with the Axemen and has been the starting nose tackle for the past two seasons. In seven regular season games in 2011, he recorded 16.0 tackles and forced two fumbles.

Andrew, the football team representative on the Acadia Players Association since the fall of 2009, is also a co-facilitator, founder and director of the "Breakthrough Athletics" mentorship program at Acadia where varsity athletes are connected with local youth interested in sport, with a focus on those youth who may be underprivileged.

Andrew coordinated all fundraising efforts on behalf of the Acadia football team for the CIBC Run for the Cure this past October, and participated in the event on the day after a game. He has also volunteered as a team leader for the Canadian Cancer Society's Relay for Life, a group leader with the Acadia Axemen Alzheimer's Drive and volunteers with the Acadia S.M.I.L.E. (Sensory Motor Instructional Leadership Experience) Program.

The past summer, Frazer also gave back to the local football community, serving as the co-defensive line coach and defensive coordinator with the Valley Minor Wardogs JV program.

"Andrew is one of the most selfless players on the team both on the field and off. As a player he takes care of his job sinking double teams and taking on double blocks for the benefit of his teammates. Off the field, he thinks of others before he thinks of himself and is involved in many groups and initiatives on and off campus," said Acadia head coach Jeff Cummins. "A well rounded, community orientated individual, Andrew maintains not only a great academic standing at Acadia but he is also involved with various charitable and football team initiatives while holding an on-campus job during the academic year and off-season."

VOLUNTEER COACH OF THE YEAR: Don Davis, StFX (Phil Hughes Award)

Don Davis of the StFX X-Men is the 2011 recipient of the Phil Hughes Award as the Atlantic University Sport Volunteer Coach of the Year.
Davis, a native of Montreal, Que., has been coaching with the X-Men football team for the past five seasons. Listed as the team's assistant head coach and receivers coach, he also contributes a large amount of time to the motivational aspect of the sport, distributing motivational materials, holding goal setting sessions with both the offence and defence, conducting visualization exercises, and often delivers the X-Men's pre-game speeches - always a strong message that gets the players ready to play.

As a player, Don was the quarterback of the UNB Red Bombers for four years, leading them to two Atlantic Bowl appearances. He was instrumental in bringing football to Fredericton High School in 1985 and served as head coach from 1985 to 1993 and again in 1996. In that ten year period his teams won eight New Brunswick provincial championships. \

In addition to coaching quarterbacks and receivers at both StFX and UNB over the years, Don has volunteered his expertise at many football camps and clinics, and has coached football at many levels in the province of New Brunswick. He has coaching experience in the sports of hockey, field hockey and baseball and is a member of the Fredericton Sports Wall of Fame.

Don has coached numerous high school athletes who went on to play CIS football, and has coached several CIS athletes who have moved on to the CFL.

"Don Davis is a fixture at the StFX athletic complex, and serves as a great example to our players," comments StFX head coach Gary Waterman. "He can often be found in the gym himself, on the treadmill or lifting weights, and it does well for our players to see a retired man dedicate so much time to his physical fitness."

"Don is on call at all times during the day to throw with any of our quarterbacks or receivers, and many of our players take him up on this offer on a regular basis. He is also an individual that many of our players (and coaches) will go to when they need advice, not only regarding football but in any aspect of their lives; his wisdom is certainly a resource for the StFX football program."

The first place and CIS No. 9-ranked Acadia Axemen (7-1) lead the list of all-conference selections announced today, claiming a total of 12 all-star positions while the Saint Mary’s Huskies (6-2, 1-0 playoffs) took home eight of the available positions. The StFX X-Men (2-6, 0-1 playoffs) had four players selected while three members of the Mount Allison Mounties (0-8) were honoured.

Leading the list of Axemen named to the squad is fourth-year quarterback Kyle Graves of Barrie, Ont., who was named the top pivot as well as the top punter in the Atlantic conference. Graves, who is an all-star for the first time in his career, led the league in passing yards (1,856), passing TD's (17) and punting average (36.7 yards per punt). He also caught a touchdown pass this season and rushed the ball 32 times for 179 yards on the ground and another major.

Acadia receivers Michael Squires and Taylor Renaud, running back Zack Skibin along with offensive linemen Colin Murray, Tyler Murray and Travis Miller were the other Axemen from the offensive side of the ball to be selected.

Squires, a native of Halifax, N.S., caught 31 passes for 432 yards in 2011 and led the Atlantic conference in receiving touchdowns with seven, while Renaud added a league-leading 653 yards on 30 receptions. Skibin, a second-year player from Edmonton, Alta., led the Axemen in rushing with 75 attempts and 470 yards this season.

Acadia defensive linemen Jake Thomas and John Wilson and linebacker Tom Labenski were also recognized for their respective seasons. Thomas, a fourth-year student from Douglas, N.B., registered a career-high 9.0 sacks and his 14.0 tackles for a loss led the AUS conference. Wilson had 24.5 tackles this season, including 7.0 for a loss, while Labenski, an all-star previously in 2008 and 2010, led the Axemen with 44.0 tackles this season.

Third-year defensive back Cameron Wade (Moncton, N.B.) rounds out the contingent of Axemen selected. Wade had a career-high 35.0 tackles this season, one interception and led the conference with four forced fumbles.

Running back Craig Leger, defensive end Rob Jubenville, CIS leading scorer Brett Lauther and reigning AUS most outstanding player Jahmeek Taylor of Saint Mary's were among the players from the Huskies honoured.

Leger, a fifth-year tailback from Salmon River, N.S., led the conference in rushing with 786 yards and wraps up his career with 2,590 rushing yards, ranking him third in school history and sixth all-time on the AUS list. Jubenville, in his fourth year out of Oshawa, Ont., led the conference with 10.0 sacks and a team-high 47.0 tackles this season. His 17.5 career sacks are also the most in school history.

Lauther's 91 points led in the nation in scoring in 2011 and his 17 field goals made this season rank fourth all-time in AUS single-season history. Taylor, a fourth-year player from Mississauga, Ont., is the top special teams player for the second year in a row after leading the conference in all-purpose yards with 151.6 per game. His 1,666 career punt return yards rank third all-time in AUS history.

Other Huskies chosen include rookie cornerback Kayin Marchand-Wright, safety Neil King, wide receiver Ryan Tremblay and offensive lineman Guillaume Gagnier. Marchand-Wright had an AUS-leading six interceptions this year, tying the SMU single-season record. King, also a 2009 all-star, finished with 24.0 sacks this season and Tremblay was SMU's top receiver with a team-leading 22 receptions for 465 yards and four touchdowns.

StFX's four selections are all first-time all-stars and include receiver Jordan Catterall, cornerback Raye Hartmann, linebacker Brett Hubbeard and offensive tackle Colin Wicks. Catterall had a team-leading 432 yards receiving and three receiving TD's this season, while Hubbeard led the squad with 44.0 tackles, 9.0 of which were for a loss. Hartmann, a second year player from Mississauga, registered an interception and 14.5 tackles in six regular season games.

Fifth-year linebacker Luke Ekoh (Toronto, Ont.), fourth-year defensive back Matt Kenny (Moncton, N.B.) and rookie defensive lineman Jacob LeBlanc (Halifax, N.S.) were the three Mounties chosen to this year’s all-star squad. All three players are AUS all-stars for the first time.

Ekoh registered 43.0 tackles in 2011 and added a sack and a forced fumble in eight games played, while Kenny had 29.5 tackles and two interceptions. LeBlanc had an impressive first year with the Mounties, picking up 30.5 tackles, 9.0 of which were for a loss and finishing fourth among the AUS sack leaders with 5.0. Jacob also recovered two fumbles and was credited with a pass break-up from his defensive tackle
position.

2011 ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY SPORT ALL-STARS:

OFFENCE:
Centre: Travis Miller, Acadia (5th year - Grand Prairie, Alta.)
Guard: Guillaume Gagnier, Saint Mary's (3rd year - Laval, Que.)
Guard: Colin Murray, Acadia (3rd year - London, Ont.)
Tackle: Tyler Honeywood, Acadia (4th year - Oro-Medonte, Ont.)
Tackle: Colin Wicks, StFX (4th year - Fletcher's Lake, N.S.)
Inside Receiver: Michael Squires, Acadia 4th year - Halifax, N.S.)
Inside Receiver: Jordan Catterall, StFX (2nd year - Oakville, Ont.)
Wide Receiver: Taylor Renaud, Acadia (3rd year - Winnipeg, Man.)
Wide Receiver: Ryan Tremblay, Saint Mary's (4th year - London, Ont.)
Running Back: Craig Leger, Saint Mary's (5th year - Salmon River, N.S.)
Running Back: Zack Skibin, Acadia (2d year - Edmonton, Alta.)
Quarterback: Kyle Graves, Acadia (4th year - Barrie, Ont.)\

DEFENCE:
Defensive Tackle: Jake Thomas, Acadia (4th year - Douglas, N.B.)
Defensive Tackle: Jacob LeBlanc, Mount Allison (1st year - Halifax, N.S.)
Defensive End: Rob Jubenville, Saint Mary's (4th year - Oshawa, Ont.)
Defensive End: John Wilson, Acadia (4th year - Hamilton, Ont.)
Linebacker: Tom Labenski, Acadia (5th year - Oakville, Ont.)
Linebacker: Brett Hubbeard, StFX (2nd year - Peterborough, Ont.)
Linebacker: Luke Ekoh, Mount Allison (5th year - Toronto, Ont.)
Safety: Neil King, Saint Mary's (3rd year - Sherwood Park, Alta.)
Defensive Back: Cameron Wade, Acadia (3rd year - Moncton, N.B.)
Defensive Back: Matt Kenny, Mount Allison (4th year - Moncton, N.B.)
Cornerback: Kayin Marchand-Wright, Saint Mary's (1st year - Montreal, Que.)
Cornerback: Raye Hartmann, StFX (2nd year - Mississauga, Ont.)

SPECIAL TEAMS:
Punter: Kyle Graves, Acadia (4th year - Barrie, Ont.)
Place Kicker: Brett Lauther, Saint Mary's (2nd year - Truro, N.S.)
Special Teams Player / Returner: Jahmeek Taylor, Saint Mary's (4th year - Mississauga, Ont.)

This week both receiver Michael Squires and defensive tackle Jake Thomas were named as CIS and AUS Football Players of the Week. Squires' four touchdowns performance against the Huskies placed him as the top offensive performer in the country while teammate Jake Thomas took the honours as the top defensive player with his recorded 5.0 tackles, four of which were for combined losses of 33 yards, including two sacks.

The Axemen wrap up the regular season this Saturday in Antigonsh, NS as they take on the StFX X-Men.

Four and a half minutes later, Huskie Ryan Tremblay halled in a 50 yard toss by Jack Creighton to even the game at seven after one quarter of play. Leger's touchdown in the opening three minutes of the second frame was followed by a 10 yard field goal by Acadia's Ryan Begin.

Squires went back to work offering two consecutive touchdowns; the second of the day came at the 9:23 of the second quarter on a 15 yard reception that capped a four play 55 yard drive to take back the lead.

Squires knocked on the touchdown door again, this time in the second half at the five minute mark of the third quarter when the drive by Acadia was setup by a Wade Cameron quarterback sack that was recovered by Acadia's Ed McNally on the Saint Mary's 15 yard line. Squires five yard reception for his third touchdown of the day gave Acadia a spirit lifting 24-14 lead.

Just over a minute later, Carl Fitzgerald narrowed the margin to three points on a nine yard reception that ended a quick two reception drive that included a 25 yard and a 48 yard reception to Ryan Tremblay that setup the Fitzgerald major.

Jahmeek Taylor's touchdown in the third had Acadia fans on the edge of their seats as the Huskies took the lead at 28-24 with a quarter and a half remaining in the game.

Mike Squires last of four touchdowns at 4:32 of the fourth quarter ended a drive that began on the Axemen's 14 yard line. Squires celebrated the seven play, 96 yard drive in the end zone to give Acadia back the lead in the closing quarter.

A 28 yard field goal by Acadia's Ryan Begin preceded the turning point of the game when Cameron Wade blocked a Saint Mary's punt deep in Huskie territory and teammate Evan Williams recovered for the Axemen touchdown that essentially put the nail in the coffin for Saint Mary's.
 
Several defensive stands followed over the remaining nine minutes as Acadia held onto the 41-28 lead to close out one of the most important regular season games for both teams.

Acadia pivot Kyle Graves was 18 for 27 passes for 321 yards, while teammate Zack Skibin added 108 net yards in rushing - Skibin's second game of 100 yards or more in what is becoming a lethal running attack.  Mike Squires added 116 yards in receiving and seniors Stu Clow and Taylor Renaud had 96 and 64 yards in receiving respectively.

Jack Creighton put to rest any quarterback controversy at Saint Mary's, guiding the Huskies to an air attack that posted 353 yards net passing yards. Ryan Tremblay had a game high 124 yards in pass receiving yards.

A strong defensive effort by Acadia was led by linebacker Ed McNally who had seven solo tackles, one sack, one forced fumble and a fumble recovery. Fourth year defensive tackle Jake Thomas added four solo tackles and two bone crunching timely quarterback sacks and one forced fumble.

Acadia launched an air and ground attack that accumulated a season high 507 net yards, while the Huskies showed off 415 yards net offence but with only 97 yards on the ground.

With the win, the Axemen will prepare for their last regular season game at StFX next Saturday. While the game is meaningless, the Axemen could post one of the best regular season records in the last 25 years.

Huskies will prepare for their last regular season game versus Mount Allison and then will host the AUS Semi-final game against the StFX X-men on Saturday, Nov. 5th in Halifax.