The University of Lethbridge recognized its top student-athletes on April 9, 2026, during the 59th annual Blue and Gold Banquet. The event marked the official conclusion of the 2025-26 varsity athletics season for the Pronghorns, who compete in seven sports across the Canada West and U SPORTS associations.
Track and field standout Jinaye Shomachuk was named Female Athlete of the Year. Shomachuk had a historic season, setting a new U SPORTS record in the women’s weight throw at 20.77 metres and securing gold medals at both the Canada West Championships and U SPORTS Nationals.
The Male Athlete of the Year award was presented to basketball guard Kymani Pollard. Pollard led Canada West in scoring with 21.8 points per game. Following his standout season, Pollard announced he intends to move on to professional basketball.
This year marked the introduction of inaugural Rookie of the Year awards to recognize emerging talent. Swimmer Grace Hitchcock was named Female Rookie of the Year after setting multiple program records, including some that had stood for more than 20 years. Xander McIntyre from the men’s soccer team received the Male Rookie of the Year award.
Track and field head coach Larry Steinke was honoured as Coach of the Year for his leadership throughout a season that saw his team produce three national championship medalists. Spencer Pommells, the school’s Director of Athletics, oversees the seven varsity programs that carry the school’s long history of national titles, including achievements in men’s hockey and women’s rugby.
