Any time anyone does anything great, recognition is warranted, wouldn't you agree? On April 8, Fanshawe students and athletes were thanked and given awards for their hard work and achievements in the world of athletics.

College President Peter Devlin opened the program by praising the athletes.

“Everything we do at Fanshawe is tied to unlocking the potential of our students,” he said. “I am impressed with our athletes, not just because of their accomplishments in competition, but because of their accomplishments in the classroom and in the community as well.

“You are the finest evidence of that hard work pays off,” he continued, addressing the students. “I have no doubt that the commitment you have shown so far will take you to great places ahead.”

Nathan McFadden, manager of Athletics, mentioned that coaches play a vital role in building up Fanshawe athletes.

“I want to thank our coaches,” he started. “For your leadership and tireless efforts to build not only championship teams, but championship people.”

“Fanshawe Athletics emphasizes character first and foremost in the make-up and development of our teams,” said McFadden. “I want to congratulate all of our student athletes whether they are awarded or not.”

This year, the athletics program achieved great accomplishments in many respects: volleyball, curling and badminton to name a few. But one team received recognition for yet another great achievement.

The men's cross-country team was awarded their National Championship rings at the banquet. The championship is the team's third title in the past four years.

The highest honours — male and female athletes of the year — were presented to two athletes who not only exemplified excellence in their sports, but also excel in the classroom.

Kaitlyn Kelly was awarded for her contributions on the women's volleyball team. Kelly's achievements included helping the team win silver in its first appearance in the OCAA final in 42 years, being named Fanshawe's Kickoff Tournament MVP, and also being an OCAA West Division First Team All-Star. Kelly has been in the volleyball program for three years and is in the General Arts and Science program here.

Male athlete of the year was also presented to a volleyball player.

Mathieu Poulin received the honour due to his excellent achievement in the classroom like maintaining an impressive 3.7 GPA, and also being a leader on the court, in the film room and weight room.

He was happy to receive the award.

“It feels great, but it is a team award,” Poulin said. “I couldn't have any success without all my guys on the team.”

Poulin said balancing athletics and academics was an important aspect of his academic career.

“It gives you a certain work ethic where you have to do wok and athletics,” he said. “It gives you an excellent work ethic to work hard at both because you need both to succeed.”

Poulin will be taking his volleyball skills overseas as he prepares to start his professional career.

Devlin closed the awards ceremony by congratulating the athletes.

“Whether you hit, shoot, spike, row, swing, kick or run, what I've heard about you all this evening was about commitment [and] mentorship,” he said. “Congratulations to all of you Falcons for helping add to the Fanshawe spirit.”

Winners of awards are as follows:

Female Athlete of the Year — Kaitlyn Kelly

Male Athlete of the Year — Mathieu Poulin

Jim Matchett Memorial Scholarship — Jordan MacNeil

Les Zoltai Award — Derek Braun

Mike Lindsay Leadership Award — Mahendrabhai (Maddy) Makwana

World Transplant Games Legacy Badminton Award — Alex Duong

The John (RJ) Beaumont Falcons Athlete Spirit Award — Larissa McBean

The Mike Orr Athletic Award for Women's Falcons Soccer — Katie Parker

Cross Country Running:

Female Most Valuable Runner — Jill Tereschyn

Female Rookie of the Year — Sarah Deme

Male Most Valuable Runner — Clint Smith

Male Rookie of the Year — Luke Deighan

Golf:

Female Most Valuable Player — Danielle Wilkinson

Male Most Valuable Player — Spencer Dunseith

Male Rookie of the Year — Spencer Dunseith

Badminton:

Female Most Valuable Player — Riley Hogan

Female Rookie of the Year — Courtney Brewer

Male Most Valuable Player — Alex Duong

Male Rookie of the Year — Alex Dominski

Women's Soccer:

Most Valuable Player — Alex Chesney

Rookie of the Year — Chelsea Britnell

Men's Soccer:

Most Valuable Player — Steve Hepton

Rookie of the Year — Brandon Mendes

Women's Basketball:

Most Valuable Player — Ali Vlasman

Rookie of the Year — Kiera Serodio

Men's Basketball:

Most Valuable Player — Bryan McDonald

Rookie of the Year — Alex Thompson

Women's Volleyball:

Most Valuable Player — Kaitlyn Kelly

Rookie of the Year — Darian Gropp

Men's Volleyball:

Most Valuable Player — Mathieu Poulin

Rookie of the Year — Nate Van Camp

Curling:

Female Most Valuable Player — Kaitlyn Knipe

Female Rookie of the Year — Christina Borgs

Male Most Valuable Player — DJ Ronaldson

Male Rookie of the Year — Kelly Schuh

Women's Indoor Soccer:

Most Valuable Player — Kayli McGuffin

Rookie of the Year — Chelsea Britnell

Men's Indoor Soccer:

Most Valuable Player — Michael Pereira

Rookie of the Year — Brandon Mendes