The 2024 season for the Laurier Golden Hawks football team was a remarkable journey, culminating in a Yates Cup victory and a Vanier Cup appearance. This historic campaign was defined by key moments, strategic brilliance and unwavering team spirit.
The Golden Hawks’ triumph in the Yates Cup was a testament to their skill and determination. Running back and third-year year psychology major Darion Bacik-Hadden was a key player in the Golden Hawks’ 42-21 victory over the Western Mustangs, highlighted by his first touchdown of the season.
After dashing into the end zone for a ten-yard score, Bacik-Hadden wasn’t done. At 10:03 in the third quarter, he executed a trick play called “Chatham,” where he took a hand-off from quarterback and fourth-year kinesiology student Taylor Elgersma.
Bacik-Hadden threw a chip-shot pass to a wide-open Khalil Derman for another touchdown which put Laurier up 42-21. Bacik-Hadden described the play as both a design and an audible, executed at a critical moment to solidify the team’s lead. Despite suffering a severe leg injury during the game, he powered through the pain.
“It was a big play for us, and I’m proud of how we executed it,” Bacik-Hadden said, demonstrating his resilience and the Golden Hawks’ determination.
Despite suffering a severe leg injury, Bacik-Hadden’s resilience exemplified the team’s spirit. Defensive back and fourth-year sociology major, Tristan Miller, highlighted the importance of early defensive stops in Laurier’s successful 2024 season, stating, “We knew we had this.”
His confidence was well-founded, as the Golden Hawks maintained an undefeated record throughout the season, culminating in a Yates Cup victory against Western with a decisive 51-31 win.
Miller’s contributions were part of a strong defensive effort that helped Laurier dominate their opponents, including holding the Queen’s University Gaels to just 21 points in the OUA semifinals.
The victory celebration extended beyond the field, marking a turning point for the Laurier community. The team’s success, including their impressive run to the Vanier Cup, reignited school pride and showcased Laurier’s football program on a national stage.
Despite a narrow 22-17 loss to Université Laval in the Vanier Cup, the Golden Hawks’ remarkable season set a new standard for excellence in Laurier athletics.
The team’s journey began with the regular season, where they focused on growth and camaraderie. Elgersma reflected on the team’s evolution: “We started the season still learning to play together,” he said.
Key matchups against rivals like the Western University Mustangs and University of Waterloo Warriors tested the team’s mettle.
Elgersma described their approach to the Western game as “business as usual,” showcasing their quiet confidence. Players like second – year geography major Tayshaun Jackson emerged as a game-changer alongside defensive units like Jesse Wilkins, a second-year arts major and secondary.
Defense was instrumental in Laurier’s successful 2024 season. This unit formed a formidable defensive force that significantly contributed to the team’s undefeated regular season record.
Jackson returned a kickoff 89 yards for a touchdown and his versatility added depth to both the offense and special teams.
In the Vanier Cup, Laurier faced a tough opponent, the Laval Rouge et Or. Despite falling short of victory, the team’s journey was a testament to their dedication.
Elgersma highlighted Jaxon Stebbing’s crucial touchdown, saying, “It’s tough to replay those moments, but the group effort and defense kept us in the game”.
The experience, though humbling, set a new standard for Laurier football.
“This season was about more than just football—it was about building a culture and setting expectations for the future,” Elgersma said.
With many seniors graduating, younger players have witnessed the commitment required at this level. Bacik-Hadden emphasized, “We’ve set the standard, and it’s about keeping that swagger and confidence alive”.
The 2024 season drew parallels to Laurier’s iconic 2016 Vanier Cup campaign. Elgersma noted the flow of university sports, saying, “Teams go through cycles, and the 2016 run marked the start of something special under Coach Faulds.”
Elgersma emerged as the offensive leader, known for his poise and intelligence.
His pre-game ritual of walking the field while listening to worship music reflects his grounded approach. “It’s about staying true to myself and preparing mentally for the challenge ahead,” he said.
Elgersma’s leadership on and off the field has set a new standard for what it means to be a Golden Hawk, inspiring teammates and fans with his dedication and drive.
This year’s Laurier men’s football season will be remembered as a defining moment in Laurier’s football history, showcasing the team’s resilience, skill and unwavering spirit.
As they look to the future, the Golden Hawks are poised to build on this success and continue their pursuit of excellence in Canadian university football.
Photo by Jasmine Abel. Yates Cup game on Nov. 9, 2024.
