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(Image Credit: Western Communities Foundation)
Athlete Leaders Awards

Medicine Hat College is included in WCF athletic awards beginning this fall

Aug 6, 2026 | 7:08 AM

The Western Communities Foundation (WCF) is launching a new award program to recognize student-athletes who demonstrate leadership, resilience and community involvement at six Canadian post-secondary institutions, including Medicine Hat College.

Beginning this fall, the foundation will award two $1,000 Athlete Leaders Awards annually at each participating school, recognizing one male and one female varsity student-athlete.

Each institution’s athletics department will select the recipients, and no applications are required.

“Many of the skills that drive success in athletics — discipline, perseverance, teamwork and leadership — are the same skills that drive success in business,” Grant Ostir, CEO of Western Financial Group and president of the WCF said in a statement.

“We’re proud to support student-athletes who are developing these qualities while making meaningful contributions to their communities. They are the leaders, mentors and professionals of tomorrow.”

The award recognizes student-athletes who demonstrate leadership within their teams or communities, resilience in overcoming challenges, positive character and sportsmanship, and a commitment to volunteerism. Preference will be given to those who contribute to their communities beyond athletics.

The program will also be offered at the University of Lethbridge, the University of Winnipeg, the University of Manitoba, the University of Guelph and the University of Waterloo.

To be eligible, recipients must be full-time varsity student-athletes in good academic standing.

“Post-secondary campuses play a vital role in shaping future leaders and in creating safe, inclusive spaces where students can thrive both on and off the field,” Rod Cunniam, WCF Board Chair said in a statement.

“Through our partnerships with organizations like the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and Calgary Stampeders, we’ve seen the important role sport can play in bringing people together, building leadership and teamwork, and inspiring people to give back,” he added.

“This award builds on that same spirit by recognizing student-athletes who are making a positive difference in their communities.”

Founded in 2001, the Western Communities Foundation says it has contributed more than $9 million to community initiatives across Canada through grants, scholarships and emergency funding programs.