Quebec's University Football Community Unites for Children's Health at the 38th Annual Shrine Bowl

Quebec's university football community will come together on October 3 for the 38th annual Shrine Bowl as the Concordia Stingers and Université Laval Rouge et Or take the field in support of children and families served by Shriners Hospitals for Children Canada.

For 38 years, the Shrine Bowl has given Quebec's football community a common purpose beyond the rivalry of the game. The annual tradition brings together student-athletes, coaches, volunteers, alumni and supporters around a shared commitment to children receiving specialized orthopedic care and rehabilitation at the hospital.

"The Shrine Bowl reflects the generosity and community spirit that define Quebec," said Ciro Cucciniello, Chairman of the Board of Governors at Shriners Hospitals for Children Canada. "Year after year, this event helps support a Montreal hospital that provides life-changing specialized care to children from across Quebec, Canada and around the world. While fans may remember the final score, we hope players remember something even more important: that they were part of a tradition that helps children access life-changing care. That's what makes the Shrine Bowl bigger than the game itself."

Meet the Patient Ambassadors

The event will feature Patient Ambassadors whose stories highlight the impact of specialized pediatric care.

Lexi, 9, is a fourth-grade student who loves sports and competitive dance. She is currently navigating osteochondral lesions in both ankles. Despite the challenges of recovery, Lexi has remained positive and resilient and dreams of becoming a doctor and helping other children.

Olivia, 7, is a second-grade student who enjoys skiing, dance, performing arts and travel. Born with congenital femoral hypoplasia in her left leg, she recently completed her first limb-lengthening process. Olivia's journey has been marked by remarkable courage and determination.

More than a Game: Giving Back to the Community

The Shrine Bowl's success is made possible through the longstanding commitment of Quebec's university football programs. For players and coaches alike, the game represents an opportunity to compete at a high level while supporting the community.

During the players' visit to the hospital on September 23, Paul Eddy Saint-Vilien, head coach of the Concordia Stingers, said:

"We're incredibly grateful to be here. Meeting the patients and their families puts things into perspective for all of us. Visiting Shriners Hospitals for Children Canada is really special. It gives you goosebumps, and our players understand how meaningful it is to be here. We're proud to give back to our community and to support the incredible work the hospital does for children and families."

For decades, the Shrine Bowl has connected Quebec's football community with children and families receiving care at the hospital, demonstrating how sport can bring people together in support of children's health.