While the 2020-21 competitive Ontario University Athletics and U SPORTS seasons were cancelled, the McMaster Marauders were busy making waves off the field of play and were recognized for their outstanding efforts off the field of play at the 97th Marauder Student-Athlete Awards Show.
The awards show, which was moved online for the second straight year, was brought to living rooms around the world by current student-athletes and hosts for the evening Stacey Warner and Brandon Bernard. In the absence of athletic competition, the 97th edition focused on highlighting Marauder achievements in the classroom and in the community.
“Of course this is anything but a normal year” said university president Dr. David Farrar during his opening remarks. “I’m very proud of the way our student-athletes have stepped up this year in a number of different ways.”
McMaster’s Department of Athletics & Recreation has handed out five major awards, including the Joyce Wignall Award, the Les Prince Award, the Outstanding Female Graduate Award, the Dr. Ray Johnson Award, and the Director’s Award, while also recognizing graduating Marauder student-athletes and fourth-year plaque award winners.
“Time and time again, our student-athletes have displayed outstanding resiliency and perseverance despite all the uncertainty presented by the pandemic” said Associate Director of Athletics, Mark Alfano.
“For some, your athletic careers may be coming to a close, but know this will always be your home, and you will always be Marauders” added Alfano.
The Marauders also recognized three varsity coaches for their years of service with Andy Duffield (women’s water polo, 5 years), Grey Fairley (swimming, 5 years) and Ken Oda (fast pitch, 10 years) all reaching significant career milestones in the past year.
Click here to learn more about award recipients.