Al Gagnon
Al Gagnon, a native of Kenora, Ontario, spent his formative years immersed in hockey culture, a quintessential experience for many youths in the region. Transitioning from the ice to the football field in 1999 marked a pivotal moment in his athletic journey. Representing the Beaver Brae Broncos during his high school years in Kenora, he garnered attention from prestigious institutions such as Queen’s University and the University of Manitoba. However, opting for a different path, he pursued a policing program at college. Fate intervened when he received an invitation to join the Saint Mary’s Huskies football program in Halifax, Nova Scotia, an opportunity he embraced wholeheartedly throughout his university tenure.
Subsequently, Gagnon ventured into the Canadian Major Football League with the Lloydminster Vandals during his time in Alberta. Post-football career, his focus shifted towards family and professional endeavors. Married to Raelle, they nurture a family of four children actively engaged in sports. Gagnon extends his passion for athletics by coaching youth hockey and assumes the role of President at Apex Rail Solutions Ltd.
His entrepreneurial acumen yielded remarkable achievements, including securing the Aboriginal Business of the Year 2023 award from the Kenora District Chamber of Commerce. Recognized as a standout in his field, he earned a spot among Business Elite’s 40 under 40 for 2024.
Gagnon's aspirations transcend personal success; he aims to illuminate pathways for aspiring athletes seeking to elevate their careers. Through Monarch, he champions a supportive environment where players can thrive, armed with guidance and resources to navigate their journey seamlessly. Whether transitioning from high school to collegiate athletics in the USports or NCAA, Monarch stands as a steadfast ally, empowering athletes to focus on their training and game, free from the burdens of navigating the intricate landscape alone.
Subsequently, Gagnon ventured into the Canadian Major Football League with the Lloydminster Vandals during his time in Alberta. Post-football career, his focus shifted towards family and professional endeavors. Married to Raelle, they nurture a family of four children actively engaged in sports. Gagnon extends his passion for athletics by coaching youth hockey and assumes the role of President at Apex Rail Solutions Ltd.
His entrepreneurial acumen yielded remarkable achievements, including securing the Aboriginal Business of the Year 2023 award from the Kenora District Chamber of Commerce. Recognized as a standout in his field, he earned a spot among Business Elite’s 40 under 40 for 2024.
Gagnon's aspirations transcend personal success; he aims to illuminate pathways for aspiring athletes seeking to elevate their careers. Through Monarch, he champions a supportive environment where players can thrive, armed with guidance and resources to navigate their journey seamlessly. Whether transitioning from high school to collegiate athletics in the USports or NCAA, Monarch stands as a steadfast ally, empowering athletes to focus on their training and game, free from the burdens of navigating the intricate landscape alone.