Dual-Sport Standout and Record-Setting Soccer Player Named Trent University Athletes of the Year

Women’s lacrosse and volleyball standout Natalie Fournier and men’s soccer student athlete John Moncada have been named Trent University’s 2025 to 2026 Female and Male Athletes of the Year, with other student athletes also receiving recognitions at the 57th Annual Trent Athletics Awards Banquet.

(from left to right): Nathan McFadden, Natalie Fournier and John Moncada. phioto courtesy of trent university.

“The Athlete of the Year award recognizes Excalibur student athletes who have made an exceptional impact on their teams through performance, leadership and consistency throughout the season,” said Nathan McFadden, director of Athletics and Recreation. “Natalie and John are outstanding examples of what it means to compete and excel at the highest level, while representing Trent with passion and pride. Natalie's ability to shine in two sports while setting program records speaks to her work ethic, competitiveness and commitment, and John’s first season with the men’s soccer program was nothing short of remarkable in helping lead them to their best season ever. Both student-athletes have left a lasting impact on their teams and on Trent Athletics.” 

Natalie Fournier (from Georgetown, ON) is a dominant dual-sport athlete, competing with women’s volleyball and lacrosse. On the court, she recorded 126 kills, 95 digs, 17 aces and 151 points this season, finishing her career as the program’s all-time leader in both kills (542) and points (646). On the field, Fournier (Gzowski College) continued to excel as a midfielder, helping lead the Excalibur to OUA women’s lacrosse gold while earning OUA All-Star honours. She recorded 31 goals and 9 assists for 40 points in just 11 games, averaging 3.64 points per game. 

John Moncada (from Scarborough, ON), a first-year Business Administration student (Lady Eaton College) with the men’s soccer team, delivered a remarkable first season with the Excalibur. He led both the OUA and U SPORTS in goals with 14, while also tying for the national lead in points with 15. His performance earned him OUA East MVP and U SPORTS First Team All-Canadian honours, while his 14 goals set a new record for the most goals in a single season in Excalibur men’s soccer history. His scoring prowess helped lead the men’s soccer team to their best season in program history. 

The Athletics Awards Banquet brought together student athletes, coaches, staff, alumni, family members and supporters to celebrate a year defined by perseverance, competitive success and strong academic performance.  

“Our student-athletes continue to raise the bar in every sense,” said McFadden. “They compete with integrity, support one another as teammates and represent Trent with pride in the classroom and in the community. The Excalibur spirit is about more than wins and losses. It’s about resilience, leadership, and a relentless commitment to excellence. Tonight was an opportunity to celebrate the remarkable individuals who embody those values every day.” 

In addition to Athlete of the Year, awards were presented across all varsity programs, highlighting individual excellence, leadership and contributions to team culture, culminating in the presentation of the prestigious Arthur Cup to one graduating female and one graduating male student athlete. 

The Arthur Cup recognizes one male and one female athlete who have made exceptional contributions to varsity athletics through ability, sportsmanship, participation, and leadership during their time at Trent. The 2025 to 2026 recipients are Kieran Gerow and Aly Saydam. 

Kieran Gerow (from Brighton, ON) has been a defining leader for the Trent Excalibur women’s lacrosse program throughout her entire career with the Excalibur. A consistent presence and role model for her teammates, Gerow (Traill College) has helped shape the culture of the program through her leadership, commitment and sportsmanship. On the field, she established herself as one of the top goalies in the OUA, earning Excalibur Female Athlete of the Year and OUA Most Valuable Defensive Player honours in 2023 to 2024, followed by Team MVP recognition the next season. This season, Gerow helped lead the Excalibur to an OUA Championship and was named OUA Goalie of the Year. Beyond competition, Gerow is involved in the local sport and volunteer community. She coaches youth lacrosse with Lady Blue Knights Lacrosse across multiple age groups, contributes to Team Ontario as a lacrosse evaluator and regularly supports local sport through roles such as umpiring in a slow-pitch league and scorekeeping hockey games. She also volunteers with several community initiatives, including the Peterborough Petes Teddy Bear Toss in support of the Salvation Army, Porch Pirate and Polar Plunge fundraisers for Kawartha Food Share, and other local outreach efforts. Her dedication to both sport and service has made a meaningful impact on the Excalibur community and the broader Peterborough region.

A cornerstone of the Trent Excalibur men’s volleyball program, Aly Saydam (from Ottawa, ON) leaves behind a legacy defined not only by record-breaking performance, but by leadership, commitment, and community involvement. Saydam (Gzowski College) served as a key member of the team’s leadership group throughout his career, mentoring younger athletes and setting the standard through his work ethic in both the classroom and the gym. Off the court, he played an active role in the broader Trent community through the 1EX Leadership Council, the Kinesiology Society, and Campus Recreation, while helping grow the popularity of Trent volleyball through his positive presence and engagement with fans. On the court, the fourth year setter led the Excalibur through one of the most successful periods in program history, helping the team achieve its best record and start ever, while becoming Trent’s all-time leader in assists and digs and surpassing 1,000 career assists. A three-time U SPORTS Academic All-Canadian, Saydam exemplifies the balance of excellence in athletics, academics and leadership that defines the Arthur Cup. 

The recipients of the 2025 to 2026 Rookie of the Year award are Kymora Chung (women’s soccer) and William Jewell (men’s curling). 

Chung (from Markham, ON), an Honours Science student in the Trent Education Stream, made an immediate impact as goalie for the Excalibur women’s soccer team during her first season. Appearing in 10 games with nine starts, Chung (Gzowski College) posted a .759 save percentage ranking ninth in the OUA and recorded 54 saves, the third-highest total in the league. Her fearlessness, composure, and consistency quickly established her as a key part of the team’s defence. 

Jewell (from Acton, ON) stepped into the role of skip for the Trent men’s curling team in his rookie season and quickly proved himself among the province’s best. One of only two rookie skips at the 16-team OUA Championship, Jewell’s calm leadership and confident shot-making stood out throughout the competition, earning the Conservation Biology student Male OUA Rookie of the Year honours. 

The Gary Wolff Leadership award was presented to Isabelle Pellerine (women’s volleyball) and Aidan Hartley (rowing), in recognition of their courage, determination, and leadership in sport. 

A true leader throughout her five-year career with women’s volleyball, Pellerine (from Halifax, NS) a Kinesiology student, is the program’s all-time assists leader, served as team captain for four seasons and played a central role in shaping the culture of the program. Known for her competitiveness, fearless play and leading by example, she helped establish high standards of accountability and commitment while mentoring younger student-athletes and welcoming recruits to the team. Beyond competition, Pellerine (Gzowski College) is deeply involved in the volleyball community. She contributes to recruiting camps, works closely with Peterborough Thunder through clinics and training sessions, and helps organize events such as the team’s annual high school tournament and community initiatives like food drives and fundraisers. Through her leadership on and off the court, she has made a lasting impact on both the program and the broader volleyball community. 

Hartley (from Ajax, ON) has been a key component of the Trent University Rowing Club throughout his five years with the program. A varsity student-athlete for four seasons, he served on the club’s executive team before stepping into the role of president, where he led the strategic, operational, and financial management of the student-run organization while representing athletes within the broader university community. Hartley has played a key role in organizing major events, such as Head of the Trent and the Rowing Alumni Social, while also spearheading fundraising initiatives, including ‘Movember’ campaigns and rowing marathons. Known for his positivity, dedication and ability to bring people together, Hartley (Traill College) has been a unifying presence within the team, helping guide more than 50 athletes while maintaining strong academic standing in his Psychology program. 

The Community Betterment award is given to individuals who have given back to their community whilst also achieving success in sport and academics. The 2025-26 recipients of the Community Betterment Award are Megan Tapanja (women’s fencing) and Dylan Billes (rowing). 

Tapanja (from Hamilton, ON) is a dedicated leader within both the fencing and Trent campus communities. She has served as Women’s Sabre Captain since 2023 while also taking on leadership roles with the Biology Undergraduate Society and the Biology Department Communications Committee. Beyond Trent, she volunteers with local initiatives such as the North Star Industries Kids Triathlon and the YWCA Peterborough Haliburton’s Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event. Through community outreach initiatives with Trent Fencing and her work as a French tutor, Tapanja (Gzowski College) consistently uses her skills to support and connect with others. 

Billes (from Barrie, ON) has been a key leader within the Trent University Rowing Club throughout his varsity career. Serving as the club’s treasurer for the past three years, he played a pivotal role in strengthening the team’s financial position and supporting equipment upgrades that benefit future student-athletes. The fifth-year Business Administration student-athlete (Gzowski College) has also volunteered extensively within the rowing community, coaching high school athletes, helping run a para-rowing program with the Peterborough Rowing Club and supporting major events such as Head of the Trent. His commitment to both sport and community has had a lasting impact on rowing at Trent and in Peterborough. 

Visit trentexcalibur.ca for the complete list of award recipients. 

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Two Trent Excalibur Student Athletes Honoured with 2025 to 2026 Bonnie M. Patterson Award

Trent University Excalibur student athletes Natalie Fournier and Aly Saydam are being recognized with the 2025 to 2026 Bonnie M. Patterson Award for distinguishing themselves in competition, the classroom and the community.

photo courtesy of trent university, facebook.

Natalie Fournier, a dual-sport athlete in women’s volleyball and lacrosse, and Aly Saydam, a veteran setter on the men’s volleyball team, have each received the $2,500 award, which recognizes returning student athletes who demonstrate leadership, academic achievement and excellence in varsity sport.

Named in honour of former Trent president and vice-chancellor Bonnie M. Patterson (1998–2009), the award celebrates student athletes who reflect the values of commitment, teamwork and community contribution.

Psychology student Natalie Fournier (from Georgetown, ON.) has distinguished herself as one of Trent’s most accomplished dual-sport student-athletes, excelling at the varsity level in both volleyball and lacrosse while maintaining a strong academic standing.

A program leader and offensive force for the Excalibur women’s volleyball team, Fournier (Gzowski College) cemented her place in the record books this season, becoming the program’s all-time leader in both kills (542) and points (646). In 2025 to 2026 alone, the outside hitter recorded 126 kills, 151 points, 95 digs, 36 assists, eight blocks and 17 service aces, continuing to drive the team’s success with her dynamic and consistent play.

As a midfielder/defender with the women’s lacrosse team, Fournier played a key role in securing the 2025 OUA Championship, the program’s fourth championship title, and was recognized as an OUA All-Star, highlighting her versatility and ability to excel across two varsity sports in different seasons.

Off the field, Fournier is equally committed to serving her community. During the summer of 2025, she volunteered with Compass Community Services, supporting their Tele-Connect program, a phone outreach service that provides social connection and medication reminders for individuals navigating mental health challenges. She also gives back to the next generation of athletes by running youth secondary school clinics in both volleyball and lacrosse and volunteering at Trent-hosted high school tournaments for both programs.

Aly Saydam (from Ottawa, ON.), a fourth-year Kinesiology student, has been the steady hand guiding the Excalibur men’s volleyball program from the setter position while maintaining his academic standing on the honour roll and a renewable scholarship, earning him the title of OUA Academic All-Canadian.

During the 2025 to 2026 season, Aly recorded 405 assists, orchestrating the offence with poise and precision. He added 79 digs, 28 kills, 15 blocks, seven aces and 46 points, showcasing his well-rounded skillset and willingness to contribute in every facet of the game.

Saydam is a member of the team’s Leadership Group, fostering a positive culture within the program. He also served as Tournament Convenor for Trent’s Boys High School Volleyball Tournament, helping deliver opportunities for young athletes to compete at the university level.

In addition to his contribution to the volleyball community, Saydam is a Gzowski College ambassador, helping students navigate campus life and supporting college programming and events. He is also a member of the 1EX Council and the Trent Kinesiology Society, serving as the fourth-year representative. This year he volunteered for the East vs. West Charity Hockey Game, contributing to one of Trent’s long-standing campus fundraising initiatives through the Colleges.

Off campus, Saydam has extended his passion for kinesiology and community health through a placement with On the Move, a Peterborough-based program that offers community exercise classes for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease throughout the Kawartha region.

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YWCA Accepting Applications For the 2026 Hazel Education Bursary

The YWCA Peterborough Haliburton Education Awards Committee is now accepting applications for the 2026 Hazel Education Bursary.

photo courtesy of the YWCA Peterborough Haliburton, facebook.

YWCA Hazel Education Bursary is intended to help women who have experienced gender-based violence reach their goals through education or training.

Since 1998, the YWCA has honoured Hazel’s vision of helping women pursue their dreams and overcoming barriers related to their experiences of violence and abuse. Hazel was a consumer, advisor and volunteer of several community services. Hazel passed away in 1996 after a long struggle with breast cancer. Soon afterwards an education fund was created by friends and admirers to honour her legacy.

YWCA Peterborough Haliburton Board of Directors, through the Education Awards Committee, and with donations from the community, offers bursaries between $500 and $2,500 to women who:

• have experienced barriers related to the impact of violence and abuse

• have a dream to strengthen their economic security

• are a resident of Peterborough or Haliburton County

• seek to further their education or develop skills

Applications for the Hazel bursary can be submitted online before 4 p.m. on May 1.

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Peterborough and Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce Announces 2026 Luminary Awards Nominees for Women in Business

The Peterborough and Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce has unveiled the nominees for the 2026 Luminary Awards for Women in Business, celebrating women whose leadership, innovation and generosity are strengthening the region’s economy and community.

Photo by Felicia Massey.

Established to shine a light on women whose contributions are often overlooked, the Luminary Awards recognize leadership across entrepreneurship, employment, community service and long-term impact. The awards honour women who lead visibly and behind the scenes in business, non-profit and community settings, and who create opportunities for others through their work.

The inaugural Luminary Awards sold out in 2025, drawing more than 200 attendees and recognizing five outstanding recipients: Sheena Howard, Jenisha Sanjit Arora, Rachel Stark, Tiffany Arcari and Jeannine Taylor. Taylor received the first-ever Legacy Award, which recognizes a lifetime of excellence, generosity and community impact.

“The Legacy Award reflects the heart of what the Luminary Awards stand for,” said Chair of the Peterborough and Kawartha Chamber of Commerce Board Susan Dunkley. “It honours women whose careers have not only achieved success but have changed lives and strengthened our community over time.”

@ptbo_canada @PtboChamber ♬ original sound PTBOCanada

The following five categories introduced in the inaugural year return for 2026:

Legacy

Honouring a woman whose career is defined by excellence, generosity and community impact. Her vision and success have created opportunities for others through employment, mentorship, philanthropy or long-term influence; leaving an enduring mark.

Nominees:

• Judy Byrne

• Monika Carmichael

• Dr. Kristy Hiltz

• Vanessa Oake Hogan

• Dr. Jenny Ingram

• Jenni Johnston

• Cathy Olley

• Anne Ryan

• Susan Tung

• Wendy Kelly

• Betty Halman-Plumley

Trailblazer (Entrepreneur)

Celebrating a business owner whose leadership, ingenuity and boldness have sparked success and inspired others.

Nominees:

• Winter Barringer

• Kinjal Shukla Clement

• Lisa Couture

• Leanne Crump

• Marsha Gaulton

• Richa Grover

• Catherine Hanrahan

• Tracy Minnema

• Ashley Flynn

• Danielle Turpin

• Rebecca O'Rourke

Emerging Entrepreneur

Celebrating a rising business owner who has launched a fresh, innovative venture that is already making its mark and shows exciting potential for the future.

Nominees:

• Kara Ainsworth

• Chasley Keepfer

• Karen Kerr

• Erin Shannon

• Elena Thomas

• Ashley Woollacott

• Ashley Flynn

• Marsha Gaulton

One to Watch (Employee)

Recognizing an emerging leader whose innovative ideas, meaningful contributions and proven success show outstanding potential for the future. Nominees may hold entry to mid-level management roles.

Nominees:

• Allison Adam

• Bethan Bates

• Amanda Bedford

• Lindsey Brodie

• Michelle Nguyen

• Rosalea Terry

“It still continues to be a big deal for women to be recognized and I think the Chamber’s doing an amazing thing with this,” said The Ten Spot’s Lindsey Brodie. “When you are being validated by other women it is so much more impactful.”

Barrier Buster

Celebrating a remarkable woman who has excelled in her field by breaking through barriers. She has faced challenges, whether gender-based, systemic, cultural, language, disability-related, or otherwise; and risen above them with skill, creativity and perseverance.

Nominees:

• Ashley Flynn

• Bridget McCluckie

• Jane Bischoff

• Jordan Lyall

• Kayley Duggan

• Nour Mazloum

• Stephanie Wilson

• Tori Silvera

• Marsha Gaulton

New for 2026, the Chamber has expanded the awards to include two additional categories:

Building Belonging

Celebrating a woman whose inclusive leadership and equity-driven innovation has reshaped how business is done, demonstrating that building for belonging is not just the right thing to do, it’s a strategic advantage. Nominees may focus on workplace culture, employee experience and/or customer-facing innovation.

Nominees:

• Mackenzie Annis

• Akshana Katoch

• Jennifer Lawson

• Peggy Shaughnessy

• Danielle Turpin

• Patricia Wilson

• Marsha Gaulton

Community Catalyst

Celebrating a woman whose leadership, collaboration and vision have sparked positive change in the community. A Community Catalyst brings people together, builds partnerships and drives meaningful progress on local priorities. Nominees can be paid staff or volunteers of a not-for-profit organization, or be an employee or owner of a business or enterprise.

Nominees:

• Ashley Woollacott

• Abby Zotz

• Ashley Collins

• Betty Halman-Plumley

• Chelsey Carberry

• Dana Hetherton

• Emma Featherstone

• Michelle Ferreri

• Sheridan Graham

• Tonya Kraan

• Kat McCartie

• Amy Muir

• Marcia Steeves

• Meryn Steeves

• Rosalea Terry

• Lois Tuffin

• Susan Zambonin

• Rebecca O'Rourke

• Nour Mazloum

“I’m a female-owned business in the boxing industry, which isn’t the norm,” said Marsha Gaulton of Eastside Boxing and Wellness, who was nominated for four Luminary Awards this year. “This is a huge honour for me to be recognized for what I’m doing. Just to be seen like this in the community, it feels like my heart is exploding.”

The 2026 Luminary Award Ceremony will take place on May 7 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Great Hall, Trent University (1600 West Bank Dr.).

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Nominations Now Open for the 2026 Peterborough County Community Recognition Awards

Peterborough County is inviting residents to help celebrate the people, groups and organizations who strengthen the community by submitting nominations for the 2026 Community Recognition Awards.

Photo courtesy of Peterborough County.

Every two years, the County Community Recognition Awards acknowledge community members who demonstrate dedication, leadership, compassion and innovation across Peterborough County.

Residents may nominate any volunteers, leaders, youth, businesses and organizations living in Peterborough County. Nominees must not have received a Peterborough County Community Recognition Award in the same category within the past 15 years.

Award Categories:

Accessibility Recognition: A group, individual or business that has contributed to accessibility improvements within the County of Peterborough. (One County-wide award)

Acts of Heroism: An individual who has displayed bravery in the face of personal risk, injury or death at an incident that took place either in the County of Peterborough or was to the benefit of a Peterborough County resident and which action did not occur while the individual was acting in their professional capacity while on duty. (Unlimited nominations)

Agricultural Leadership: Any individual or farm enterprise is eligible to be nominated in this category. Factors to be used to assess the nomination will include innovations, agricultural promotion, and the recognition the County receives through its operations. It may consist of involvement in agricultural organizations. Leadership in the agricultural community will also be considered.

Business Leadership: Any new and successful initiatives of both new and established businesses that have made outstanding contributions to the County, including tourism promotion. (One County-wide award)

Community Volunteer of the Year: Any group or individual who has demonstrated community involvement or volunteerism within the County.

Environmental/Sustainability Recognition: Nominees will have demonstrated innovation and/or leadership in environmental conservation, stewardship and sustainability by having:

• developed innovative green technologies or

• started businesses to support and encourage sustainable living, or
  donated conservation lands or easements or

• undertaken ecosystem restoration or research or

• educated others about the importance of protecting the environment or

• achieved the overall vision for sustainability through one of the identified theme areas set out in the Sustainable Peterborough Plan: Agriculture and Local Food; Climate Change; Cultural Assets; Economic Development and Employment; Healthy Communities; Land Use Planning; Natural Assets; Energy; Transportation; Waste; and Water. (One County-wide award)

Heritage Preservation: An individual or group that has promoted heritage and preserves the history of Peterborough County. This could include, but is not limited to, Fair boards, Women’s Institutes, historical societies, etc. A community or public or private organization that has reached a significant milestone, such as the 100th anniversary, is also eligible for this award. (One County-wide award)

Leadership in Arts and Culture: A group or individual who has demonstrated excellence in the arts, bringing recognition to the County.

Sporting Excellence: Any team or individual who has won a provincial, national or international sporting event. (One County-wide award)

Youth: A person aged 25 years or younger who has contributed to the betterment of the community and/or school environment.

Nomination forms are available at the Peterborough County office (470 Water Street, Peterborough), local municipal offices, township fire halls, police service boards, schools, libraries, chambers of commerce and Community Care organizations. They can also be submitted online through the County website.

Completed and signed nomination forms, along with supporting documentation, must be submitted to the County Clerk by March 2.

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Local Luxury Home Builder/Developer Wins Award for Two-Storey Home Design

Dietrich Homes has won the Ontario Home Builders’ Association’s (OHBA) 2024 Awards of Distinction for Production Built Home.

dietrich homes logo

The OHBA’s award ceremony took place on Tuesday in Niagara Falls.

According to a media release, the awards recognize the creativity, innovation and excellence of land developers, builders, renovators, designers, marketers and service professional’s within the residential construction industry.

“We would like to take this time to recognize the amazing work completed by all of our vendors who take pride in their work and have contributed to our success,” said Paul Dietrich, owner and builder of Dietrich Homes.

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City of Peterborough Hands Out 2023 Civic Awards

The 2023 Civic Awards were presented by City Council at the McDonnel Street Community Centre on Tuesday.

civc awards photo

The awards recognize contributions to the community that enriched the lives of residents and outstanding individual and group achievements in the city in 2023, according to a City of Peterborough media release.

“It’s an honour to recognize the outstanding achievements and efforts of these exceptional individuals who have gone above and beyond in contributing to the life of our community,” mayor Jeff Leal said. “Their dedication, hard work, and commitment to making our city a better place is truly inspiring.”

Award Recipients:

Community Betterment

• Peterborough Police Auxiliary Unit

• Myles Conner

• Irish Millie

• Jennifer and Braden Glasbergen

• Marie Gulliver

• Dave Rumball

• Peterborough Lions Club

Cultural Betterment

• Sebastian Johnston-Lindsay

• Tina Avlonitis

Environmental Stewardship/Sustainability

• Ashburnham Memorial Stewardship Group

Athletic Award of Merit

• Holy Cross Secondary School Girls Hockey Team

• Chelsea Burton

• Kenner Senior Boys Basketball Team

• MacKenna Hancock

Holnbeck Award

• John McNutt

Junior Athlete of the Year

• Alexis Jenkins

Youth Volunteer of the Year

• Titus Ngouepo

Volunteer of the Year

• Greg McLeod

Lifetime Achievement Award

• Ron Cambridge

“On behalf of the entire city, I extend our heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to all of this year's recipients,” Leal said.

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