Alix's kick at the can

TORONTO - A long shot to make the team, Anthony Alix is about to take his shot at the big time.

For Alix, it’s a shot worth taking, a moment he’s relishing and an opportunity he plans to embrace.

When you watch Alix at work and pay attention to his physical makeup and presence, he comes across as a younger version of veteran Noel Prefontaine.

With a resume that’s as complete as any, Prefontaine has nothing to prove, except to stay healthy and get ready for the June 30 regular-season opener.

Alix’s status is far from certain, more along the lines of the improbable as a return to CIS football looms.

But one shot is better than no shot and this affable punter/kicker is prepared to roll the dice.

“I’m going in with one goal: To prove myself,’’ said Alix. “I need to show people that I can play in this league. It’s my time.”

Alix, who attends St. Francis Xavier, played running back in high school, has the mental and physical makeup of a free safety and recovered a punt for a touchdown at the collegiate level.

Born in France, Alix was raised in Quebec after his family moved to Mont Tremblant when he was 14.

Alix never had a kicking coach in high school and would head to the United States to learn about the nuances and techniques associated with the discipline.

Whether it’s punting the football, attempting field goals or handling kickoff duties, Alix, who spends a lot of time in the gym, can do it all.

With one year of collegiate eligibility remaining, the Argos don’t have to account for Alix as cuts will be made following Wednesday’s kickoff.

“It’s a huge step going from university football to this level,’’ said Alix, who only started to speak English three years ago. “Just being around Prefontaine has been helpful. He’s a good guy with a big leg and he’s consistent. The experience so far has been great, something I’ll bring back to university.”