Laval University’s Rouge et Or basketball team has welcomed Rosemarie Dumont, a skilled NCAA transfer from Butler University. Standing at 6-foot-1, Dumont returns to Quebec to be closer to family while pursuing her master’s in business administration. Despite challenges during her NCAA career, she valued the experience and opportunities it provided. Coach Guillaume Giroux anticipates her contributions to the team’s rebounding and offense, as Dumont adjusts to her new environment post-surgery.
Exciting News for Laval University’s Rouge et Or Basketball Team
Laval University’s Rouge et Or basketball team is reinforcing its already impressive lineup with the addition of a talented NCAA transfer. After spending four seasons with the Butler Bulldogs in the competitive Big East Conference, which features powerhouse teams like the UConn Huskies, Rosemarie Dumont has decided to return to her roots. Standing at 6-foot-1, the forward reflected on her challenging journey during her time in the NCAA. “My first two seasons were tough due to COVID-19,” she shared. “There were periods when I went eight to ten months without seeing my family, and as an international student, traveling back home was risky.” Dumont spent several holidays in the U.S., as short breaks made it impractical to return to Canada. “Friends from the team invited me to their homes during the holidays so I wouldn’t feel isolated. I still keep in touch with my former teammates daily.”
A Perfect Fit for Dumont
When it came time to leave Butler, Dumont knew Laval was the perfect choice. “By joining Laval, I get to be close to my family, I’m part of a strong team, and I can work towards completing my master’s in business administration,” she explained. Although transferring through the NCAA portal is a popular trend, Dumont opted against it, feeling that her limited playing time and statistics would not attract much interest from stronger conferences. She considered the possibility of joining a weaker conference but worried about the academic standards of those schools. “Returning to Quebec felt like the best decision. I have great respect for Guillaume [Giroux] and his coaching with the Rouge et Or, and I knew what to expect from the program.”
Despite the challenges she faced, Dumont cherished her NCAA experience. “I truly enjoyed my time there,” she said enthusiastically. “I received a scholarship that covered everything, and the coaches treated everyone with respect, regardless of playing time.” She appreciated the perks of being part of a Division I team, including charter flights, comfortable accommodations, and delicious meals during travels. Additionally, Dumont was actively involved in the community and interned at a company owned by a former WNBA star, where she gained valuable experience in supply chain management.
As Dumont begins her new chapter, Coach Guillaume Giroux is excited to have her on board. “Rosemarie will enhance our rebounding and offensive strategies,” he stated. “She has previously trained with us during summer visits to Quebec and already has good chemistry with the girls from Sainte-Foy.” How has her transition been so far? “The practice pace is excellent, and our guards are just as skilled as those at Butler. I’m still recovering from meniscus surgery in April, so I’m focusing on adjusting to the team dynamics.”