French National Team Safety Pierre Courageux Has Signed With Finnish Champions The Helsinki Roosters
French safety Pierre Courageux has signed with the reigning Finnish champion Helsinki Roosters for the 2017 season.
Courageux, a native of Vannes, France and a member of Team France, spent the 2016 season with the Seinäjoki Crocodiles also in Finland’s top division.
His football career has taken him to Canada as well where he played for one of the top schools, McGill University. Prior to arriving in Finland, Courageux played for the Thonon Black Panthers winning the French championship with them.
American Football International caught up with Courageux recently.
AFI: How did you come to sign with the Helsinki Roosters?
Pierre Courageux: After the season with the Seinäjoki Crocodiles I came back to France and the Roosters president Jarmo Lahti contacted me, I talked with the defensive coordinator Kari Titola and they decided to sign me.
AFI: Did you know about American football in Finland or Europe before now?
PC: I knew a bit of it, some friends of mine played in Finland a few years ago, but I was really surprised in a good way by the level and how structured the Maple League and the SAJL (Finnish Federation) are.
AFI: What are you looking forward to most about playing in Finland?
PC: I know the Helsinki Roosters are a really well coached team and a family type team. All the players and coaches are really committed to the team. Helsinki is an amazing city too. Can’t wait to be part of this amazing project.
AFI: And what do you think you can bring to the Roosters in 2017?
PC: I’m a really dedicated player and I’ll bring my versatility to the backfield, moving quickly to the ball, making sure tackles and understanding the game. But the most important aspect is to play together as a unit, when you have 10 other guys you put your trust in to make a play when it needs to be made it makes a huge difference.
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