Axemen add experienced centre back Emile Lachance
Former CÉGEP captain adds experience and presence to Axemen backline
The Acadia Axemen men’s soccer program has added experience and leadership to its backline with the commitment of Quebec City native Emile Lachance for the upcoming Atlantic University Sport season.
Lachance, a 6'0 centre back, joins the Axemen after competing across multiple levels in Quebec, including the collegiate ranks. He plans to study kinesiology at Acadia.
Lachance most recently played with CS Trident in Ligue2 Québec, where he helped anchor the team’s defence. During the 2025 season, he recorded eight clean sheets with the senior side, highlighting his consistency and defensive presence.
Prior to that, Lachance captained the Cégep Garneau Élans in the RSEQ Division 1 collegiate system, gaining valuable experience competing at a high level while taking on a leadership role. He also spent time with Royal Select Beauport, progressing through the Quebec Elite Soccer League before competing with the club’s League1 Québec reserve team.
His leadership qualities have been evident throughout his career. Lachance served as a team captain at multiple levels, including with Royal Select Beauport at the U16 and U17 levels and with Samuel-de-Champlain High School in futsal competition. He led his high school team to a Quebec provincial championship in 2022 and a runner-up finish in 2023.
Axemen head coach Matt Holton said Lachance brings maturity and presence to the defensive unit.
“Emile comes to us with lots of experience, having captained Garneau Élans in the CÉGEP college system,” said Holton. “As a player, he is composed on the ball, dominant in the air and as a natural leader will bring a huge presence to the backline.
“In the classroom, he displays academic excellence and is the type of student-athlete we aspire to have as part of the Axemen program.”
Lachance said joining Acadia represents an important step in his academic and athletic journey.
“It is an honour to join the program and the Axemen family to help the team reach new heights and continue my academic journey at a nationally recognized institution."