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November 10, 2017

Westerman Nominated for Jake Gaudaur Veterans’ Award

Jamaal Westerman (55) of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the locker room before the game against the BC Lions at Investors Group Field in Winnipeg, MB, on Saturday, Oct. 28, 2017. (Photo: Johany Jutras)

Jamaal Westerman’s value to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers between the white lines has never been questioned.

He is among the franchise’s all-time quarterback sacks leaders and a vocal leader followed by his teammates – even if his season was lost in September with an arm injury that will cause him to miss the playoffs.

On Friday, Westerman was recognized for the work he does off the field as he was one of nine players from across the Canadian Football League nominated for the Jake Gaudaur Veterans’ Award.

Named after the long-time CFL player and commissioner who served in World War II, the Gaudaur Veterans’ Award was instituted in 2010 and is awarded every year to the CFL player who ‘best demonstrates the attributes of Canada’s veterans: strength, perseverance, courage, comradeship and contribution to Canadian communities.’

The nominees are selected by each of the nine CFL teams and chosen by a committee before being honoured at the league awards during Grey Cup week.

Here’s what was written about Westerman as the Bombers’ candidate for the award:

“A dedicated teammate, Westerman didn’t step away from the spotlight after he suffered a season-ending injury in the Banjo Bowl. Instead, he stayed in Winnipeg and used the opportunity to be a vocal support for his teammates, a positive presence for the locker room, and a sort of coach for the younger players stepping in to fill his absence. He also made his presence felt in the community as the team ambassador for the CP Beautiful Heart Campaign, the Bombers’ Anti-Bullying program and the Break the Silence on Violence Against Women initiative. A true team player, Westerman regularly makes visits to the Children’s Hospital, amateur football teams, schools and other community appearances.’

For a look at all nine nominees, click here.