There was a record 24 teams swinging their clubs and raising $101,000 for Trent University student-athletes at the 20th annual President's Excalibur Golf Tournament at the Peterborough Golf and Country Club on Thursday afternoon.

Trent staff and students witness Dr. Cathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor (right) sink a putt prior to the shotgun start. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“At Trent, athletics is about much more than competition. It’s about developing leaders – students who build resilience, confidence, discipline and teamwork,” said Dr. Cathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor. “The record-breaking support shows our student-athletes that they have supporters rooting for them, that their efforts are recognized and valued. The Green & White Athletic Financial Awards give students the chance to be and become—embracing who they are and fully realizing their potential without financial barriers getting in the way.”

Proceeds went towards the Green & White Athletic Financial Awards, which provide financial assistance to student-athletes who demonstrate excellence in sport, academic achievement and leadership within the Trent community.

During the 2025-26 varsity season, more than 70 student-athletes received a Green & White Athletic Financial Award, bringing the total number of recipients supported through the program to over 450. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Aly Saydam, Trent men’s volleyball student-athlete, said the awards helped him maintain an academic average above 80 per cent throughout his undergraduate degree which earned him recognition as a USPORT Academic All-Canadian. This year, he also earned a place on the President's Honour Roll for graduating with an average of 90 per cent or higher and received two of Trent Athletics' highest honours: the Bonnie M. Patterson Award and the Arthur Cup.

“No journey to success comes without challenges,” said Saydam. “Being a student-athlete is very challenging. You’re expected to train like a professional athlete, while still excelling at a full-time university education. A major part of my success is due to generous donors like those here today. Receiving a Green & White Athletic Financial Award during each year of study has allowed me to focus more of my time and energy towards volleyball and my studies.”

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