McGill's Star Galas Inks Deal with CFL's Alouettes

MONTREAL – The Montreal Alouettes have signed McGill University receiver Erik Galas, a 22-year-old free-agent from Ottawa, to a contract of two years, plus an option. 

The 6-foot-2, 220-pound slotback is a two-time all-Canadian and the CIS all-time record holder with 194 receptions in 34 career contests. He also established McGill career records for most receptions, yards (2,555) and receiving TDs (19).

“I’m pretty excited about this opportunity,” said Galas, a physical education senior. “I think that I can compete for a roster spot in the CFL and will do the best I can. I’m happy to be with the Alouettes. It’s a great fit for me as my family and friends are nearby and we play at Molson Stadium where I will feel quite at home.”

Galas is coming off an impressive season with 64 receptions in eight games, the third-highest single-season total in CIS history. He ranked fifth among CIS leaders in yards (781) and hauled in six TDs.

A multi-sport athlete out of St. Matthew’s high school in Ottawa, he played five years with the Redmen, earning second-team all-Canadian honours in 2007 and first-team honours last season. He is currently completing his collegiate eligibility playing with the basketball Redmen.

Galas, who was invited to the CFL combines draft evaluation camp in 2007, is bidding to become the 57th member of the Redmen to play in the Canadian Football League and the 23rd to make the Alouettes.

Three McGill grads played in the CFL last year, including long-snapper / linebacker Randy Chevrier with the Grey Cup champion Calgary Stampeders, plus linebeacker Jean-Nicolas Carriere (Toronto) and receiver Greg Hetherington (B.C. Lions).