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Ottawa Gee-Gees
Father Philippe Cornellier
Father Philippe Cornellier
  • Year:
    1910s
  • Category:
    Athlete
  • Inducted:
    1973

Bio

Born in Saint-Rémi de Napierville, Québec, on November 20th 1892, Louis-Philippe Cornellier was a great man in the football program. It is during his studies in arts and philosophy at the University of Ottawa that he would have been known for his sporting prowess. Even if he disclaimed the story that he actually originated the spiral kick in football, it is sure that he developed the spiral to its earliest stage of perfection. Father Corneillier was one of the brightest players on his team. His speed, his judgment, his class and his kicks especially have been the admiration of all who saw him at work.

He also coached the junior and senior football team in 1931. His academic career lead him to taught arts, philosophy and theology, and to become dean of the faculty of philosophy, secretary-general and rector of the University of Ottawa from 1942 to 1946.

He was ordained a priest in Rome in 1918 and worked as an Oblates missionary throughout its existence.