News Archives: Q&A: GPRC Wolves Men's and Women's Soccer Head Coach, Chris Morgan interviews retired GPRC Athletic Director, Francois Fournier
Wednesday, August 5th, 2020
Retired GPRC Athletic Director, Francois Fournier.
GPRC Wolves Women’s and Men’s Soccer Head Coach, Chris Morgan sat down with retired GPRC Athletic Director, François Fournier to discuss his time at GPRC, soccer highlights and retirement.
Have you played various sports during your lifetime?
Fournier: I played lots of sports from competitive swimming, diving, basketball, gymnastics, hockey, volleyball, badminton, clown diving and many more.
I believe you refereed basketball for a considerable time?
Fournier: I have been a basketball referee for over 40 years ranging from the junior high level to the college level. I have many fond memories of reffing. One is being a referee at the college level with Robin Watson. There are some fun stories there!
Tell us how you were involved in starting the Soccer Program at GPRC?
Fournier: My involvement was as the Athletic Director for GPRC. Robin Watson came to me with his vision of GPRC Wolves Soccer and I supported his initiative. Robin made sure we included all the necessary partners, so we structured the Wolves Soccer Club with the Grande Prairie Soccer Assocation, the Grande Prairie Minor Soccer Association and the Northwest Peace Soccer Association. I was simply the administrator; Robin was the driving force with his strong and valued vision. The success of the program is due to his vision and drive.
What are your favourite GPRC Soccer Memories?
Fournier: There are many memories from great performances to great human kindnesses. Amanda Weber winning the ACAC Female Athlete of the Year and the GPRC Wolves Women’s team beating NAIT and winning the ACAC Conference Championships really stand out for me. Working with Jessica Winterford and her crew on team activities as she made sure everyone was taken care of is also dear to me. Also, the establishment of the Pomeroy Soccer Field on campus is an achievement I am proud of.
What did you enjoy most about your time as Athletic Director at GPRC?
Fournier: Again, many very fond memories as the GPRC Athletic Director, best job I ever had. I was very fortunate to work with some amazing people from senior administration to various department personnel to our home game crew. The best part of the job was working with some outstanding coaches and players. The players were very kind to me as I conversed with them about school, athletics and life. They made the time extremely valued. It is wonderful to have seen so many become such good human beings. I miss them all dearly. I must mention Ron Thomson, Joanne Porta and Dwayne Head as the last crew I worked with. They were patient and kind with me. Huge thanks to them. Also, Krista Mitchell has worked with me for many years and she was critical in many circumstances at the College. She brought a work ethic and positivity that I needed so much.
You worked at GPRC for 23 years, are you enjoying retirement?
Fournier: Yes, very much. I get to read, walk, run, swim and nap whenever I want to! Spending more time with Gale has been a blessing.
How would you like your time at GPRC to be remembered?
Fournier: Tough question, I would like to be remembered as one who was passionate about what he did, believed in GPRC and worked hard to achieve the goals of the program and the College. Mostly, for me, to be remembered as one who assisted athletes and coaches to achieve or surpass their potential as athletes, coaches, and most importantly, as good human beings.
What advice do you have for current student athletes at GPRC?
Fournier: What others have said, enjoy the moment. Take care of the academics as they are the tools for a future, work hard, enjoy the relationships and make each moment glorious!
Learn more about the GPRC Wolves Men’s Soccer team here.
Learn more about the GPRC Wolves Women’s Soccer team here.
Find the GPRC Wolves on social media here.
