By Noah Sidel,
Editor, MontrealAlouettes.com
Duane Butler was a stalwart of the Alouette defence for the better part of the mid-2000s. MontrealAlouettes.com caught up with the former linebacker.
What was it like to join the Alouettes back in 2003 after spending some time in the NFL and NFLE and the Ticats?
The NFL was an amazing experience and Europe really broadened my character, which was a wonderful opportunity. The Ticats have really good fans and I had a really nice experience hearing them make noise after making a nice play. The Als were a fresh CFL experience because I had such a great time playing for Coach Don Matthews and defensive coordinator Chris Jones.
What did being an Alouette mean to you?
Being an Alouette at the time I arrived meant that I was honoured to be in a better organization. It’s fun to work when you love what you’re doing and who you are working with!
What do you remember from your five-sack game against the Bombers?
I remember that I was so excited to show the team some of what I had to offer seeing that I had been watching those guys make plays from the day I crossed the border. It was the start to a great time with some nice people.
What have you been up to since the end of your football career?
It’s been a year of growth for me in all areas, but especially in my business adventures. I have focused on my mission of bringing health, wellness and fitness to people from young to old.
One avenue through which I am doing this is with my youth football camps, incorporating game skills and proper nutritional education to the teens and their families. My team has formulated special performance-enhancing sports drinks using innovative products that are getting significant results from the beginner to the professional athlete alike.
From those very visible results, I have some of my athletes who now have their parents and grandparents incorporating (our products) and exercise into their daily lives. How inspiring it is to see the changes in entire families as they transform their lives! By collaborating with retired players and the Alouettes’ Alumni Association, we have put on many camps and have many exciting ones already planned for 2010 as news of what we are doing spreads both here in Ontario and Quebec, as well as across the border in Michigan and Ohio.
What advice do you have for Americans who want to pursue a football career in the CFL?
It is definitely possible to do it and be very productive at it. Surviving consistently and happily is the same as working hard all week at practice and making plays every game as well!
