//DATE: Dec. 5, 2007
//For Immediate Release

LaBatte Named to Roster of East-West Shrine Game

University of Regina Rams third-year left guard Brendon LaBatte has been named to the roster of the West squad in the East-West Shrine Game, slated to be held on Jan. 19, 2008 at John O'Quinn Field at Robertson Stadium in Houston, Texas.

LaBatte, who stands 6-4 and weighs 325 lbs., started all 10 games for the Rams at left guard and was a critical part of the offensive line that helped the Rams average a Canada West-high 32.1 points per game this year.
 
"It's a great reflection on our program and on how much our offensive line has progressed," Rams offensive coordinator Bernie Schmidt said. "This speaks well of Brendon and the work he's done to improve his athleticism and increase his speed and strength. He'll represent the Rams and the CIS very well down there."

The East-West Shrine Game is an annual post-season collegiate football all-star game. Every year since 1925, the game has been played to help raise money and awareness for Shriners Hospitals for Children, an international system of 22 pediatric specialty hospitals that provide care at no cost for children with orthopaedic conditions, burns, spinal cord injuries, and cleft lip and palate. To date, the game has helped raise more than $15 million and informed millions of people about the mission of this extraordinary philanthropy.

The 82nd East-West Shrine Game in 2007 included 37 players who were selected in the NFL Draft this past April, while an additional 51 players were later signed as free agents.

Also representing the CIS on the West squad will be Saskatchewan defensive back Dylan Barker. The East squad will feature Laval linebacker Eric Maranda and Sherbrooke wide receiver Samuel Giguere.

LaBatte, who is draft-eligible for the CFL this year, will become the second U of R player to play in the Shrine Game. The first was slotback Jason Clermont, who played in the 2002 contest before becoming a high first-round selection in the CFL draft.