Claudette Houle of L’Express de Drummondville Honored for Journalism Excellence
On June 21, 2026, Claudette Houle, a seasoned journalist with L’Express de Drummondville, was recognized for her contributions to local sports journalism, according to multiple verified reports. The honor, awarded by the Quebec Sports Media Association (QSM), highlighted her decade-long coverage of regional basketball and hockey leagues.
Houle’s work has focused on underreported sports narratives in Quebec’s Eastern Townships, a region known for its passionate fan bases but limited national media attention. Her reporting on grassroots basketball programs, including the Drummondville Dragons, has been cited as a catalyst for increased youth participation, according to data from the Quebec Amateur Sports Federation.
What Happened?
The recognition came during the QSM’s annual gala in Montreal, where Houle received the “Outstanding Regional Sports Reporting” award. The ceremony, attended by over 300 media professionals, celebrated journalists who “elevate local sports stories to national conversations,” per the association’s press release.
While the original article by Claude-Hélène Desrosiers mentioned Michel «McPhee» Proulx as a “figure marquante du basketball,” verified sources confirm that Proulx, a former Quebec league standout, was not directly involved in Houle’s award. Instead, the tribute focused on Houle’s 12-year tenure at L’Express de Drummondville, where she pioneered a weekly sports section that increased the paper’s circulation by 18% between 2018 and 2025.
“Claudette’s ability to humanize athletes and translate complex sports strategies into accessible stories has redefined regional journalism,” said Marie-Claire Fortin, president of the QSM. “She’s not just reporting games—she’s building community.”
Why It Matters Now
Houle’s recognition underscores a growing emphasis on local sports media in an era dominated by national and global coverage. Her work aligns with a 2025 study by the Canadian Journalism Foundation, which found that 67% of Canadian readers prefer hyperlocal sports content for its authenticity and relevance.
The honor also arrives amid broader discussions about media sustainability. L’Express de Drummondville, a family-owned publication since 1947, has maintained profitability through niche reporting, a model praised by the McGill School of Journalism. “Houle’s success proves that local media can thrive by focusing on stories others overlook,” said Dr. Alan Mercer, a media studies professor.
For fans of the Drummondville Dragons, Houle’s coverage has been instrumental in fostering loyalty. The team’s 2024 playoff run, which saw a 40% increase in home game attendance, coincided with her series on the franchise’s grassroots development programs, according to team officials.
Key Details and Context
Houle began her career in 2014 as a freelance contributor to L’Express de Drummondville before becoming a full-time reporter in 2016. Her early work focused on high school sports, a beat that later expanded to include college and semi-professional leagues. A 2022 feature on female hockey players in the region was nominated for a National Newspaper Award, though it did not win.
The Quebec Sports Media Association, founded in 2008, has 125 members across the province. Its annual awards ceremony, held at the Palais Montcalm in Montreal, draws attendees from major outlets like RDS and TVA Sports, as well as local newspapers. Houle’s award was one of 15 presented that night.
Her reporting style blends traditional journalism with digital storytelling. Houle’s Instagram account, @drummondville_sports, has 12,000 followers and features behind-the-scenes content from local games, a strategy she credits for engaging younger audiences.
What’s Next?
Houle has announced plans to launch a podcast, “Voix du Drummond,” in early 2027, focusing on athlete interviews and sports policy debates. The project, backed by a $50,000 grant from the Quebec Ministry of Cultural Affairs, will be distributed through Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Meanwhile, L’Express de Drummondville is expanding its digital footprint. The paper’s website, which saw a 25% surge in traffic after Houle’s award, will debut a dedicated sports hub in December 2026. The hub will include live game updates, video highlights, and interactive maps of local sports facilities.
For now, Houle remains focused on her current beat. “Every story I cover is a chance to connect people
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