Trent University Student-Athletes Honoured at 56th Annual Excalibur Awards Banquet

Women's rugby student-athlete Rianna Rogers and men's varsity rower Dylan Scott recipients of prestigious Arthur Cup

Trent University varsity student-athletes and coaches were recognized at the annual Varsity Awards Night on Thursday, March 20, an event that brings together diverse members of the Trent community to celebrate the outstanding leadership, community involvement, and excellence in varsity athletics.

"Success in competition is only part of the story. Trent's athletes are leaders in the classroom, balancing academics with intense training and competition. That dedication is inspiring. Athletics builds resilience, teamwork and a sense of belonging, qualities that define the Trent University community," Dr. Cathy Bruce, president and vice-chancellor of Trent University said at the event. "Over my career at Trent I've had the chance to experience the energy of Trent Athletics firsthand – cheering in the stands at Justin Chiu Stadium, watching the rowing action unfold on the water and taking in the intensity of games right here in the Athletics Centre."

The recipients of Trent's 2024/25 Athletics Awards are as follows:

Arthur Cup

Varsity student-athletes Rianna Rogers (women's rugby) and Dylan Scott (men's rowing) were honoured as the recipients of the Arthur Cup, the University's most prestigious award for students in the final undergraduate year who have made significant contributions in sportsmanship, participation, and leadership in athletics programs.

Wrapping up an exceptional career with the Excalibur, Rianna Rogers (Otonabee College) leaves a lasting legacy in athletics and the Peterborough community. A standout with the women's rugby team, Rianna earned multiple Player of the Game awards and was named Forward MVP in 2023. Overcoming a serious injury last summer, she returned to the field for her final season, demonstrating resilience and leadership. 

Beyond the game, Rianna has been a mentor to younger athletes and an active community volunteer with many organizations, including the First Peoples House of Learning, YES Shelter, Lakefield Animal Welfare Society, and Food for Kids. As president of the 1EX Council for the past two years, she has played a pivotal role in expanding its initiatives, fostering a stronger Excalibur community and spearheading events that give back. 

Since joining Trent Excalibur men's rowing as a novice in 2022, Dylan Scott (Gzowski College) has demonstrated relentless determination, earning his place on the varsity team. Beyond his impact on the water, Dylan has been a driving force in team initiatives, including Movember, where he personally raised over $3,000 this year.

A dedicated leader, Dylan volunteers as a high school and club coach and has twice received the Chris Leech Leadership Award for his contributions to the team. As an executive member of the 1EX Leadership Council, he has played a key role in organizing events such as the Chili Cook-Off and Motionball tournament, strengthening the Excalibur community.

Gary Wolff Leadership Awards

The Gary Wolff Leadership Award was presented to Ella Honey (women's rugby) and Joseff Zwetko-Neher (men's soccer), in recognition of their courage, determination, and leadership in sport. 

A dedicated leader with Trent Women's Rugby, Ella Honey (Gzowski College) served as vice-president in 2023-24 before stepping into the co-president role this season. She played a key role in organizing team fundraisers and community events, strengthening connections between Trent students and the broader Peterborough community.

Beyond rugby, Ella is deeply involved in environmental and social initiatives, volunteering with organizations such as YES Shelter, Kawartha Food Share, and the Trent Apiary.

Joseff Zwetko-Neher (Lady Eaton College) is a leader on and off the field. He mentors rookies on the men's soccer team, leads strength training sessions, and volunteers as a student trainer for multiple Excalibur teams.

Beyond Trent, he helps newcomers to Canada find family doctors, supports young sports professionals through networking initiatives, and advocates for mental health awareness. A youth soccer coach and frequent speaker at sports-related events, Joseff balances his many commitments while maintaining an impressive academic average.

Community Betterment Awards

Kendall Rose (women's rowing) and Samuel Winterbottom (men's fencing) are the 2024-25 Community Betterment Award recipients. 

Kendall Rose (Lady Eaton College) is a dedicated coach and mentor in the rowing community. She has coached grades 7-12, volunteered with the Adam Scott Rowing program, and managed over 70 high school athletes, leading them to three races, including the Canadian High School Championship. 

This season, Kendall launched a free five-week rowing program, teaching recreational athletes aged 14-60 how to row and race—many of whom went on to compete at Head of the Trent.

A dedicated leader with Trent Fencing, Samuel Winterbottom (Otonabee College) has served as Men's Team Captain and Men's Foil Captain for the past two years. Known for his reliability, he supports teammates at practices and tournaments while organizing team-building events.

Beyond fencing, Samuel is passionate about science and the environment, volunteering with student government, the Peterborough Science Fair, and local environmental projects.

Rookie of the Year Awards

The recipients of the 2024-25 Rookie of the Year Award are Olivia Grosjean (women's lacrosse) and Warren Chambers (men's soccer).

Olivia Grosjean (Trent University Durham GTA) made an immediate impact with women's lacrosse, dominating the circle and setting the tone with her relentless work ethic.

Warren Chambers (Champlain College) led men's soccer in scoring, ranking top ten in the OUA and second among rookies—despite missing two games due to injury. He was named an OUA Second-Team All-Star and Excalibur Athlete of the Month in September.

Athlete of the Year Awards

The recipients of the 2024-25 Athlete of the Year Award are Rebecca Dockray (women's rowing) and Nicolas Badalato (men's volleyball).

Rebecca Dockray (Otonabee College) claimed two OUA medals this season, the most of any Excalibur athlete. She and Tess Friar dominated women's doubles, winning gold at the OUA Championships for the second straight year, along with titles at the Dad Vail Regatta, Head of the Trent, and Brock Invitational. Rebecca also secured bronze in women's coxed fours at OUAs.

Nicolas Badalato (Gzowski College) leaves a lasting legacy as the all-time scoring leader for Excalibur men's volleyball, holding records for career points, career kills, and most wins by a graduating player. Under his leadership, the team achieved its two most successful OUA seasons to date.

The team awards are as follows:

University Athletic Awards

Awarded in recognition of significant contribution to the Trent Excalibur varsity sport programs.