Trey Vaval Shines as Double Finalist for CFL Awards

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers’ standout returner, Trey Vaval, has emerged as a double finalist for prestigious Canadian Football League (CFL) awards. Announced on Thursday, Vaval is recognized as the West Division finalist for both the Most Outstanding Rookie Award and the Most Outstanding Special Teams Player Award. This recognition comes despite only one player from the Bombers advancing to the final voting round.

While Vaval celebrates his nominations, his teammates have faced setbacks in their award pursuits. Running back Brady Oliveira will not repeat as the most outstanding player or the most outstanding Canadian, while defensive back Evan Holm and tackle Stanley Bryant also fell short of nominations in their respective categories.

At just 25 years old, Vaval has made a significant impact this season. He led the CFL with four kick return touchdowns and set a new club record for the Bombers, achieving the most missed field goal return yards in a single season. Additionally, Vaval contributed on the defensive side, making four starts at cornerback.

In the Most Outstanding Rookie category, Vaval faces competition from Devin Veresuk of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. Meanwhile, for the Most Outstanding Special Teams Player award, he is up against former Bomber and current Toronto Argonauts kicker Lirim Hajrullahu.

The finalists for the Most Outstanding Player Award include Nathan Rourke of the BC Lions and Bo Levi Mitchell from the Tiger-Cats. Former Bombers offensive lineman Jermarcus Hardrick, now with the Saskatchewan Roughriders, is the West finalist for the Most Outstanding Offensive Lineman Award.

As the Bombers prepare for the upcoming playoff match, they traveled to Montreal on Thursday ahead of their Eastern Semifinal against the Alouettes, scheduled for Saturday. The team faces challenges as receiver Nic Demski is doubtful to play due to a hamstring injury. Backup quarterback Chris Streveler has been ruled out after re-injuring his surgically repaired knee in the regular season finale.

The CFL Awards will take place on November 13, 2025, during Grey Cup week in Winnipeg. This highly anticipated event will showcase the league’s top performers and their impressive achievements throughout the season.

With Vaval leading the charge, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers remain a team to watch as they enter the playoffs, and his accolades only add to the excitement surrounding the franchise.