(Jason Clermont photo: Courtesy Canada West)

Before going on to an outstanding career in the CFL, Jason Clermont left his mark on Canada West football with the Regina Rams.

The 2001 CW Player of the Year was honoured Thursday, as the Regina native became the first Ram inducted in the conference’s Hall of Fame.

Clermont played three seasons with the Rams after they made the jump from the junior ranks to Canada West beginning with the 1999 season. In 2000, Clermont helped Regina to the Hardy Cup and a berth in the Vanier Cup.

He capped of his university career in 2001 by being named the conference’s top player.

Between 1999 and 2001 Clermont was a two-time All-Canadian, earned conference all-star selections in all three of his Canada West seasons, and finished his university career by being named the Canada West Player of the Year in 2001.

Over his three Canada West seasons, Clermont caught 115 passes for 2,169 yards with 19 receiving touchdowns. He added seven rushing majors, for 26 total touchdowns, which stood as the school’s all-time record for more than 15 years.

Following his university career, Clermont went on to play a decade in the CFL, splitting time between the BC Lions and Saskatchewan Roughriders. He was the league’s top Canadian twice (2004 and 2007) and was a Grey Cup champion with BC in 2006.