Garneau's Vincent Filion named CCAA Cross-Country Running Coach of the Year

The Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) is proud to announce Vincent Filion of the Élans du Cégep Garneau as the 2025 CCAA Cross-Country Coach of the Year.

For nearly 15 years, Filion has shaped a program defined by collective purpose, athlete development, and sustained excellence. The Élans once again delivered outstanding performances throughout the 2025 season, capturing both Nord-Est and RSEQ provincial team titles in the women’s and combined categories, while the men’s team earned strong second-place finishes at both levels.

Individual results mirrored the Élans’ depth and competitive strength, with podium performances across conference and provincial championships. These achievements reflect Filion’s long-term commitment to building cohesive groups with shared vision and mutual support.

Filion’s approach prioritizes the joy of striving together. His coaching philosophy emphasizes personal growth, balance, and learning through experience, valuing the process as much as performance itself. He is known as a mentor who guides athletes in making thoughtful decisions on and off the course, while maintaining academics as a central priority.

Beyond competition, Filion’s impact extends across the running community. He contributes to athlete development year-round through his work with the Université Laval athletics club, mentors emerging coaches, and leads major community initiatives such as the Trail Garneau, which engages athletes in leadership and program sustainability.

“Vincent is a passionate coach who has built teams that are united, motivated, and committed to each other,” said Line Lacroix, from Garneau. “He ensures every athlete progresses and is exceptionally successful in preparing them for the next level.”

Filion’s leadership has supported more than 100 Élans alumni in reaching the university level, with many going on to excel nationally and internationally. His influence on athlete development and team culture continues to shape one of the most respected programs in collegiate cross-country. 

Other coach of the year nominees were.

Michael Schnarre

David Hopton

Claire Pabody