As Carleton won their sixth national championship trophy in a row, two players experienced their final time stepping on the court as Ravens.
Fifth-years Gavin Resch and Guillaume Payen Boucard never saw a losing season, winning the W.P. McGee trophy every year they played.
“It’s so much culture we’re losing,” said interim head coach Rob Smart. “They saw themselves as capable of leading a team to the championship. They work hard, in the gym at seven, six in the morning shooting, making sure there’s no excuses.”
Both first-time starters this season, Resch and Payen Boucard helped lead a Ravens team in their first year without the Scrubb brothers or head coach Dave Smart.
“It feels really good, a lot of people doubted us from the start. Everybody had to step up, from players to coaches,” Payen Boucard said. “Everyone had a new role, and it was a challenge for us all, but we came together, and did a great job.”
Resch was a combo guard for the Ravens this season, known for his strong shooting and ability to run the Ravens offence. Some notable games for Resch this season were against Western on Nov. 27, when he hit seven triples, and York on Jan. 29, where he hit six.
He saved his best for last—when Carleton needed it most—with a huge 18-point game in the championship final, .
Resch is also the only Raven to win six championships, due to redshirting his first year at Carleton.
“It’s great, this year is different than other ones and I’m just happy some of my teammates got their first championship this year,” Resch said. “I could have missed every shot, but if we won I’d still be happy.”
Payen Boucard was the Raven’s defensive anchor, playing both forward spots for Carleton. He was also their leading scorer and biggest post threat, with huge games against Queen’s on Feb. 13, earning 17 points and nine rebounds and Nipissing on Feb 21 with 14 points and12 rebounds.
“It’s been a lot of learning,” Payen Boucard said. “I’ve changed a lot, and I thank Dave, Rob, and everybody that has been around these past five years for helping me grow, not just basketball-wise, but as a person.”
Rob Smart spoke about what motivated Resch and Payen Boucard this season.
“They all find their own reasons. Guillaume wants to be the best defensive player in the country, while Resch is more team-oriented, he wants his team to have the best experience possible,” Smart said.
Both Resch and Payen Boucard emphasized the value of their years at Carleton.
“I’m going to miss the relationships the most, no doubt,” Resch said. “Championships are great, but those people you can see later on and remember what you did together, that’s the amazing part.”
Payen Boucard echoed his points.
“I’m going to miss so many things, but the first thing that comes to mind is the people – teammates, coaches, we’re a big family. It’s going to be tough not being around everyday,” Payen Boucard said.
Looking forward, Payen Boucard said he wants to keep playing the game he loves.
“I have to see if playing pro is an option,” he said. “We’ll see this summer.”
Resch said he has other plans after basketball and Carleton.
“I’m probably going to get a desk job and get a little fat. I’m taking it easy for a bit,” Resch said.
