Isabelle Martin of the Huskies is named Academic Advisor of the Year

The QMJHL concluded this year’s Golden Puck Awards by awarding the Denis Arsenault trophy during the opening portion of the 2024 QMJHL Entry Draft presented by Fenplast last weekend. 

The award, presented to the QMJHL’s Academic Advisor of the Year, is named after Denis Arsenault, who was involved with the league for nearly 25 years. Mr. Arsenault was one of the architects of the league’s school policy, established in 2005.

The winner of the 2024 Denis-Arsenault Trophy is Rouyn-Noranda Huskies academic advisor, Mrs. Isabelle Martin. After being a finalist for the trophy in 2021-22 and 2022-23, Isabelle was finally crowned winner of the prestigious award for the 2023-24 season.

Thanks to her sound advice and constant support, she helps the Huskies’ student-athletes juggle their intensive training and demanding schoolwork. Her expertise as a teacher at Cégep de l’Abitibi-Témiscamingue enables the players to develop time management and organizational strategies, promoting a harmonious balance between their two passions. She has also been able to put in place quality support staff to assist her in her tasks.

Isabelle is worthy of this honour thanks to her involvement, her follow-up with the players and her communication with the QMJHL and its partners.

©Vincent Ethier 2024

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Other finalists for the Denis-Arsenault Trophy were:

Tommy Brûlé Tardif – Baie-Comeau Drakkar: Nominated for the second straight year, Tommy Brûlé Tardif never hesitates to get involved when it comes to helping young athletes reach the highest levels in both their sport and academics. By offering individualized support, he helps these young men successfully navigate between their demanding training schedule and academic obligations. Thanks to his sound advice and expertise as a teacher at Cégep de Baie-Comeau, he develops personalized action plans, enabling athletes to manage their busy schedules effectively. In constant contact with the QMJHL and its partners, Tommy never hesitates to proactively share his ideas for improving the academic environment.

Steve Ahern – Drummondville Voltigeurs: Steve Ahern’s experience as Assistant General Manager and Academic Advisor of the Drummondville Voltigeurs, as well as Principal of Serge-Bouchard High School, is simply invaluable. His extensive expertise gives him a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by student-athletes. By combining his passion for sport with his commitment to education, he offers unparalleled support in reconciling athletic and academic demands. His holistic vision enables him to develop tailor-made programs and strategies aimed at maximizing potential both on the ice and in the classroom. Thanks to his inspiring leadership, he never hesitates to get involved with the QMJHL to improve various aspects of the academic program.