UNews - Neil Langevin

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ excited to unveil Co-op Centre for Sport & Wellness through 25-year partnership

trevor.kenney — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 17:18:24 +0000

One of southern Alberta’s most utilized sporting and community hubs is getting a new name. Thanks to a monumental 25-year, $4.25 million partnership between South Country Co-op, Federated Co-op and the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge, the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s Centre for Sport & Wellness will now be known as the Co-op Centre for Sport & Wellness.

“This is one of the most significant community-based naming partnerships in our university’s history — a commitment that will strengthen wellness, recreation and sport for students and the entire southern Alberta community,” says ULethbridge Vice-President, External Relations, Kathy Greenwood. “Thank you to South Country Co-op and Federated Co-op, their leadership, employees and members for believing in our mission and in the potential of this centre.”

Opened in 2007 in celebration of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s 40th anniversary, the Co-op Centre for Sport & Wellness welcomes more than 500,000 people through its doors annually — from students and faculty to athletes, spectators and visitors from across the country. It has hosted provincial and national championships, provided a training ground for Pronghorn athletes and served as a community hub for wellness and recreation.

“Beyond the events and the numbers, this building has always been about people — students finding balance, children discovering sport, seniors accessing wellness programs and athletes chasing their dreams,” says Neil Langevin (BA/BEd '91, MEd '10), executive director, Athletics and Recreation Services. “This investment by South Country Co-op and Federated Co-op ensures that this facility remains vibrant, accessible and sustainable for the next 25 years. It is a partnership that reflects shared values of community, people and wellness.”

Far more than a new name and signage, the partnership allows the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ to enhance and modernize the facility, its equipment and programming, ensuring students, athletes and community members have access to an optimum environment in which to learn, compete and grow.

“We see the Centre for Sport & Wellness as more than a fitness facility, rather it is a place where people come together and celebrate community, which echoes the values and purpose statement of South Country Co-op and Federated Co-op,” says Graham Getz, CEO. “This facility engages every generation, from children participating in sport camps to tournaments, conferences and events, to seniors taking fitness classes and everything in between, all in the name of health and wellness. We’re proud to be a part of that journey.”

In addition, thanks to the ULethbridge Board of Governors $10-million matching program, a portion of the funds will be matched, establishing an endowed scholarship in perpetuity. This creates opportunities for students to have access to critical financial support that carries the South Country Co-op name.

“The opportunity to contribute to student scholarships was a key consideration in this partnership,” adds Getz. “Our sponsorship is an investment in the future and by supporting students in their academic careers, we feel we are supporting student success and strengthening our community for future generations.”

Since 2007, the Centre for Sport & Wellness has served as a gathering place for many of the region’s most important games, tournaments and events. As the Co-op Centre for Sport & Wellness, it promises to play an even bigger role moving forward.

“This is a transformational gift that will benefit students, strengthen Pronghorn Athletics and elevate wellness in the community for years to come,” adds Langevin. “Thank you, South Country Co-op and Federated Co-op, for supporting our vision and showcasing the strength of community and the power of collaboration.”

Dr. Tim Rollingson Jr. earns recognition as 2025 Pronghorn Alumni of the Year

trevor.kenney — Thu, 18 Sep 2025 15:37:16 +0000

Dr. Tim Rollingson Jr. (BSc ’99) was a standout on the court with the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Pronghorns men’s basketball team and in the years since he lifted the Horns to a number one national ranking, he’s proven to be a standout in his community as well. Rollingson, founder of Ivory Dental and owner and director of Southgate Surgical Suites, has achieved professional success while steadfastly giving back through volunteer coaching, mentorship and philanthropic activities, earning recognition as the 2025 Pronghorn Alumni of the Year.

Rollingson's exceptional Pronghorn career led to continued success away from the court and a commitment to giving back to his community through volunteer and philanthropic ventures.

“Tim’s arrival on campus kicked off a special time for Horns basketball and the drive, competitiveness and attention to detail he showed then laid the foundation for the professional success he would achieve after graduating from ULethbridge,” says Neil Langevin (BA ‘91, BEd '91, MEd '10), executive director of Pronghorn Athletics and Recreation. “All the while, Tim has always been about respecting his roots and recognizing the support he received as he developed his career. You see that in how he gives back whenever he has the opportunity. He embodies the Pronghorn spirit and is more than worthy of this honour.”

Rollingson will be recognized at Let There Be Light Night, a celebration of alumni achievement, on Friday, Oct. 17, 2025, at 7 p.m. in the Science Commons Atrium. Tickets are currently available online.

Tim Rollingson Jr.

Tim Rollingson Jr. exemplifies the highest ideals of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge through his exceptional achievements as an athlete, coach, professional and community leader.

At the start of his grade 12 year, Rollingson committed to play basketball at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge and was a transformative force for Pronghorn Athletics. He was the first Pronghorn to win Canada West Rookie of the Year, served as a three-year captain, and helped elevate the program to a number one national ranking. He remains second all-time in both three-pointers made and career assists.

Earning a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge with Great Distinction, Rollingson completed his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Alberta, and advanced training at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies as well as the Scottsdale Center for Dental Learning. In 2016, Rollingson completed a postgraduate certificate in business administration at Herit-Watt ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Setting a standard for professional excellence, Rollingson founded Ivory Dental, a practice recognized for its patient-focused care and innovation and is the owner and director of Southgate Surgical Suites, Lethbridge’s only privately owned medical operating rooms. The “Dentist to the Pronghorns,” he was also voted Best Dentist/Best Dental Office in Lethbridge Herald’s Best of the Best in 2021, 2023, 2024 and 2025.

Rollingson’s profound success couldn’t have been accomplished without the support of his wife of 30 years, Christine, and their four children and six grandchildren. He is also the majority owner of Sky Promise, the 2017 Canadian Thoroughbred Horse of the Year and Canadian Derby Winner.

Beyond his professional achievements and playing career, Rollingson has inspired countless young athletes as a coach and mentor. He has coached both boys’ and girls’ high school basketball, earning coach of the year honours and serving as president of the Lethbridge Minor Basketball Association. His dedication to teaching values of teamwork, discipline and community have left a lasting impact on the next generation.

Rollingson has set a standard for outstanding professionalism and community engagement. His unwavering philanthropic commitment is evident in his establishment of scholarship endowments, support for Pronghorn Athletics, and contributions to local schools and sports organizations. Rollingson’s leadership, integrity and generosity continue to create opportunities and inspire pride within the Pronghorn community.

He is a true leader, mentor and builder — an exemplary Pronghorn alumnus.

Everyone invited to kick off athletics season at Pronghorn Celebration Weekend, Sept. 19-21

trevor.kenney — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 15:31:27 +0000

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Pronghorns are readying their soccer cleats, shin pads, scrum caps and fancy dress outfits for the upcoming Pronghorn Celebration weekend Sept. 19 to 21.

Everyone is welcome to attend, and the activities include evening entertainment and plenty of athletic action.

Fans are invited to cheer on Pronghorns soccer and rugby teams at the Community Stadium.

“We are excited to kick off the new season for Pronghorn Athletics, and we’re extending an invitation to the community to come and help us celebrate,” says Neil Langevin (BA/BEd ’91, MEd ’10), executive director of Athletics and Recreation Services. “We thank our community members for their continued support, and we look forward to welcoming everyone to our events during the Pronghorn Celebration Weekend and throughout the year.”

The weekend gets underway Friday, Sept 19, with the Pronghorn Gala and Cabaret. Following cocktails and dinner, entertainment will be provided by Dueling Pianos. A late-night lunch concludes the event. Individual tickets are $200 and include a special gift. A table of eight costs $1,600. Funds raised from the gala support Pronghorn Athletics. Reserve your tickets or table.

Sponsorship opportunities are available, including presenting sponsor, drink sponsor, late-night lunch sponsor and candy bar sponsor. Contact Kristen DeMone at kristen.demone@uleth.ca for more information.

The 2025-26 Pronghorn Athletics season unofficially kicks off on Saturday, Sept. 20, with the Horns Triple Header at the Community Stadium. Pronghorns women’s soccer hits the pitch at 2 p.m. to take on the Regina Cougars, followed by men's soccer at 4:15 p.m. versus the Victoria Vikes. Women's rugby closes out the day of Pronghorn action at 7 p.m. against the Calgary Dinos.

The RBC Fan Zone will feature a bouncy castle, face painting, interactive games and activities for the whole family. In addition, visitors can enjoy a beer garden and the ULethbridge Alumni Zone, featuring swag, prizes and more.

Best of all, admission is free, and when you register to attend the Triple Header, you’ll be entered into a draw for two WestJet vouchers for a complimentary round-trip flight to any of WestJet’s destinations in Canada. Register now.

To round out the weekend, the Pronghorns women’s soccer team will play Regina Cougars Sunday at noon, and the men’s team will face the UBC Thunderbirds at 2:15 p.m. Both games will be at the Community Stadium.

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge and Pronghorn Athletics embark on Blackfoot mark project, call for artists

trevor.kenney — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 16:42:10 +0000

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge and Pronghorn Athletics is launching an important initiative that promises to further strengthen the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s deep connection to Blackfoot culture.

The call is out for Blackfoot artists to submit designs for the creation of a new Blackfoot mark that will embody the themes of strength, resilience and unity, reflecting both Blackfoot heritage and the values of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ community. It will be used across a range of applications, from Pronghorns jerseys and merchandise to digital media and ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ branding — becoming a lasting symbol of connection to the land and people.

The new Blackfoot mark will embody the themes of strength, resilience and unity.

“We’re really excited to launch this project and put the call out to Blackfoot artists to help us create this new mark,” says Neil Langevin, executive director of Athletics and Recreation Services. “This collaborative initiative will bring together various partners, with guidance from Indigenous Knowledge Keepers, to ensure cultural integrity is maintained throughout the design process.”

This project is a meaningful step toward fostering deeper respect and inclusion, reflecting ULethbridge's commitment to honouring the land and its people.

“We are Iniskim and we are located on traditional Blackfoot territory. Our commitment to the relationship between the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge and Indigenous Peoples connects everything we do,” explains Naamoipiiksii (Hummingbird), Shanda Webber, director of Iniskim Indigenous Relations. “As a result, I was really excited when Neil approached the Office of Iniskim Indigenous Relations explaining their desire to incorporate Blackfoot language and symbols within Pronghorn Athletics.”

It is also an opportunity to acknowledge the historical and cultural significance of Blackfoot traditions, while also embracing the future, where education, collaboration and community-building are central.

“Pronghorn Athletics has already been intentional about building relationships with Indigenous communities and athletes, including developing the Saokiawakaasiks (Pronghorns) Scholarship for Indigenous athletes, as well as hosting an annual Indigenous Basketball Night,” continues Webber. “Incorporating this new mark, grounded in Blackfoot ways of knowing, will serve as a lasting symbol of the university's commitment to inclusion, cultural respect, community-building and its connection to the land and people it serves.”

Langevin adds that nurturing the historical bonds they have established is at the heart of all their initiatives.

“The relationships we have fostered with Indigenous communities in southern Alberta and specifically the Blackfoot people are extremely important,” adds Langevin. “We have continued to look for meaningful ways to recognize the significance of Blackfoot culture and heritage to Pronghorn Athletics and I’m thrilled we’re able to begin this process for creating an identifying mark.”

The chosen mark will serve as a cultural and visual representation of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s ongoing commitment to honouring Blackfoot traditions.

Submissions will be accepted until January 31, 2025. For more details and terms of reference, refer to the project brief at gohorns.ca/ulethbridge-blackfoot-logo.

Former men's basketball standout Cam Slomp named 2024 Pronghorn Alumni of the Year

trevor.kenney — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 17:03:06 +0000

A champion of sports and the arts, Cam Slomp (BA ’93) has been named the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Pronghorn Alumni of the Year for 2024. A former Pronghorns men’s basketball standout and dedicated financial advisor, Cam passionately advocates for sports and the arts, continually enriching the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge through his support.

Former men's basketball standout Cam Slomp is a champion of both athletics and the arts.

“Cam Slomp is an outstanding representative for the Pronghorn Alumni of the Year Award,” says Neil Langevin (BA ‘91, BEd '91, MEd '10), executive director of Pronghorn Athletics and Recreation. “We are excited to announce him as our second-ever recipient. A proud and steadfast supporter of Pronghorn Athletics, Cam has made an incredible impact on the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge and the wider Lethbridge community. His commitment extends beyond sports; he is a passionate advocate for the arts and a dedicated professional, excelling in his career with Sun Life Canada and as co-owner of LKA Financial Services Ltd., where he has received national recognition. Cam’s leadership and service set a remarkable example for others to follow, and we are proud to celebrate his achievements and contributions.”

The Pronghorn Alumni of the Year recipient will be honoured for their contributions to community at Let There Be Light Night, a celebration of alumni achievement, on Friday, Oct. 18, 2024, at 7 p.m. in the Science Commons Atrium. Tickets are currently available online.

Cam Slomp

Cam Slomp has leveraged his exceptional leadership skills and deep commitment to make a significant impact on his community and the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge. A distinguished Pronghorn alumnus, Cam excelled as a standout on the Pronghorns men’s basketball team during the late 1980s and early 1990s, earning Canada West Second Team All-Star honours, and remains a proud supporter of Pronghorn Athletics. His professional success is equally impressive, with Slomp achieving recognition as a financial advisor with Sun Life Canada and owner of LKA Financial Services Ltd. In 2023, he and his team achieved MAC of the Year with Sun Life Canada, a national award recognizing excellence among Canadian Multi-Advisor Corporations, the highest honour within Sun Life Canada. Beyond his career, Slomp’s dedication to service shines through his active support of Pronghorn Athletics, his role on the board of directors for the Southern Alberta Art Gallery and his co-founding of the Pronghorn Citizenship Award. Slomp’s steadfast commitment to his community and ULethbridge exemplifies the values of leadership and service, making him an inspiring representative of both.

Boulet gift establishes permanent endowment for Ric Suggitt Women's Rugby Memorial Award

trevor.kenney — Thu, 25 May 2023 17:32:16 +0000

The Ric Suggitt Women’s Rugby Memorial Award has received a gift of $20,000 from Bernadine (Bernie) (BEd ’88) and Toby Boulet (BEd ’89, MEd ’04), establishing a permanent endowment and ensuring future generations of student-athletes will receive this meaningful support in perpetuity. Much more than a monetary scholarship given annually to a women’s rugby player at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge, the original award is a tribute to former Horns rugby coach Ric Suggitt and his legacy of selflessness and contributing to a better society.

Toby and Bernadine Boulet

Ric Suggitt coached just two years with the Horns (2015-2016) before his tragic passing in June 2017, and while his time as head of the program was short, the impact he made on campus, throughout Pronghorn Athletics and in the community was massive. His sphere of influence was wide and extended far beyond the rugby world — something that would become evident following his untimely death and the chain of tragic events that ensued.

“Ric was very special to our son Logan, and he offered to train Logan and his three buddies,” says Toby of his hockey-playing son. “He did a great job with them just out of the kindness of his heart and Logan really took to that — Ric was a larger-than-life personality.”

Suggitt was an organ donor and upon his passing, a tragedy turned into a miracle for those transplant recipients who benefitted from his ultimate gift. That last act of selflessness and giving resonated with Logan and he told his family he was signing up as an organ donor as well. What seemed like a symbolic gesture at the time eventually proved prescient, as Logan was one of the 16 people who died in the April 2018 Humboldt Broncos bus crash.

As the story emerged that Logan was able to save six lives through the donation of his organs, The Logan Boulet Effect was born, with hundreds of thousands of people signing up to be organ donors. The genesis of it all was Suggitt and his relationship with Logan, thereby making it easy for Bernie and Toby to choose to support the Ric Suggitt Women’s Rugby Memorial Award and continue to tell their story.

“You can never talk enough about a child who has passed away, and then it gives us a chance to talk about Ric and Ric’s influence on Logan and how he inspired him to become an organ donor,” says Toby.

Bernie echoes that sentiment and, as a co-chair of the Campaign for Students, encourages others to find an award that resonates with them if they are considering donating.

“I was never that person who would go out and ask for donations and then I thought back to when I was a student here and how fortunate I was to get scholarships and not have to worry about having to work while I was playing soccer and taking a full course load,” she says. “Those scholarships made a huge difference for me and when I took on this role, I thought about how hard it has been for students the last few years. It hasn’t been an easy road for them, and I see this campaign as an opportunity to build some positive connections again for our students to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ and our community.”

Any donations to the Ric Suggitt Women’s Rugby Memorial Award, or any other new endowed student scholarship, will be matched by the ULethbridge Board of Governors as part of their $10-million pledge to student awards.

Keegan Brantner (BA ’21), a previous recipient of the award, which was established in 2017, says the scholarship was invaluable in helping her maintain focus on her schooling and her sport, rather than worrying about financial issues.

“Receiving the Ric Suggitt Women’s Rugby Memorial Award was a tremendous honor,” says Brantner. “The financial assistance is greatly appreciated but the meaning and legacy behind the award is what matters most to me. This award continues to honor Ric and his legacy as well as the values of selflessness, kindness, community and giving, which is what makes receiving this award so special.”

That the award bears Ric Suggitt’s name and will forever be connected to Ric, Logan and the Boulet family is heartening to Neil Langevin (BA/BEd ’91, MEd ’10), executive director of Pronghorn Athletics.

“This award isn’t just about the money, which of course is important and can be life changing for a student-athlete, it also speaks to everything we value in Pronghorn Athletics,” says Langevin. “The story behind this award and why it came to be is about making the world around you better, about impacting people’s lives and creating a legacy of giving and community. Each scholarship recipient will know that story and the responsibility that comes with this award and that’s a powerful lesson to learn. We couldn’t be more appreciative of the Boulet family and all the donors to this award who have made this happen.”

Those interested in donating, can give by visiting the Ric Suggitt Women’s Rugby Memorial Award webpage. To give to any other student scholarship, visit Campaign for Students.

Pronghorn Athletics launches 26th Instalment of Operation Red Nose

trevor.kenney — Wed, 02 Nov 2022 17:20:44 +0000

Operation Red Nose (ORN), following a two-year hiatus, will return for its 26th year of community service, reviving the annual holiday drive-home campaign in Lethbridge starting December 2, 2022.

Operation Red Nose is a unique program dedicated to eliminating impaired driving. During the festive holiday season, individuals who have been drinking or who do not feel fit to drive can be driven home in their own vehicle by a team of Red Nose volunteers. There is no fee for the service, but donations to Pronghorn Athletics are accepted.

“Our student-athletes have been direct in asking for us to continue this community service project,” says Neil Langevin, executive director of Pronghorn Athletics. “We are so appreciative of the support we receive from our community, our relationship with Lethbridge Police Service and the assistance from the City of Lethbridge that enables us to provide this service. Local businesses have also always been behind us providing sponsorship, goods in kind or promoting and utilizing ORN, all of which allows us to put it on every year and support our athletes.”

In addition to being a safe driving campaign, Operation Red Nose is a fundraising activity for Pronghorn Athletics, with more than $815,000 raised in support of Pronghorn teams since its inception.

Pronghorn Athletics supplies most volunteers to operate the program over its nine-night run, while community members and ULethbridge staff and faculty members round out the volunteer crew. Volunteers are always needed, especially on New Year's Eve, and those interested can contact orn@uleth.ca to participate.

In 2019, Operation Red Nose provided 868 rides over 10 nights, with the help from more than 569 volunteers. During the 2019 holiday season, Operation Red Nose – Lethbridge collected $21,608.50 in donations from patrons that used the service and another $18,450 in corporate donations for a yearly total of $40,058.50. All proceeds went directly back to Pronghorn teams.

Lethbridge Police Service support is essential for ORN as it provides background checks for all volunteers.

“The Lethbridge Police Service is proud to once again partner with Pronghorn Athletics and applauds the return of Operation Red Nose,” says Deputy Chief Gerald Grobmeier. “We truly appreciate all the organizers and volunteers who give their time during the busy holiday season to help make our roads safer. Impaired driving-related collisions are 100 per cent preventable and we encourage everyone to celebrate responsibly and always find a safe ride home.”

The City of Lethbridge Transit department contributes to ORN by providing the physical space for the command centre throughout the campaign.

As well, Alpine Insurance and Intact are essential partners for the service, providing insurance to the organizing committee.

How it works

Teams of volunteers provide the Operation Red Nose service. An escort driver drives volunteers to pick up clients. A designated driver then drives the client’s vehicle with the client in it, and a navigator rides along in the vehicle completing the necessary paperwork for the trip. Anyone interested in volunteering should contact Pronghorn Athletics at orn@uleth.ca or go to http://gohorns.ca to download the volunteer application form.

Sponsors, both financial and through products and services, are key to enabling the program to be offered at no cost. Local businesses have been terrific in providing their support for ORN since its inception. Along with donations, all food and refreshments for volunteers, gas, phone service, and insurance coverage are donated.

*Please note criminal record checks for all volunteers are required and take time to process

Operation Red Nose Lethbridge

Dates of Operation in 2022
December 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 22, 23 & 31
Hours of Operation
9:30 p.m. – 3 a.m.

Operation Red Nose Phone Number: 403-320-4155

Pronghorn Athletics introduces Saokiawakaasi Scholarship for Blackfoot student-athletes

trevor.kenney — Wed, 28 Sep 2022 18:07:20 +0000

Blackfoot student-athletes have long been key contributors to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge (Iniskim) and Pronghorn Athletics, representing the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ as leaders in the classroom and on their respective teams. Today, ULethbridge and Pronghorn Athletics is excited to introduce the Saokiawakaasi Scholarship, a student award designed to create even more opportunity for Blackfoot student-athletes.

Pronghorns men's basketball player Jack-Henry Fox-Grey, a transfer student from Lethbridge College, is the first recipient of the $2,500 award.

As well, Pronghorn Athletics is pleased to announce Jack-Henry Fox-Grey, a third-year transfer forward with the Horns men’s basketball program as the first recipient of the Saokiawakaasi Scholarship.

“I am incredibly honoured to not only be the first recipient of this scholarship, but to also be a positive role model for a younger generation of Indigenous athletes in my community and others,” says Fox-Grey. “This award is very helpful for me as being a student-athlete comes with a ton of different expenses from proper nutrition to keeping my body fueled, to all the different types of equipment, as well as books for school.”

The Saokiawakaasi Scholarship is available to entering high school or transfer students who are a member of any of the Blackfoot Confederacy Nations, including Kainai, Piikani and Siksika and the Ampskaapi’piikani. Pronghorn Athletics coaches are eligible to nominate student-athletes for the award, which is a $2,500 stipend handed out annually to a student-athlete in any degree program.

“Over the years, we have had exceptional Blackfoot athletes represent Pronghorn Athletics, and it is important we continue to find ways in which we can support their continued participation in our programs,” says Neil Langevin, executive director of Pronghorn Athletics. “Just as important is what these student-athletes have brought to the classroom. Our place on Blackfoot Territory is significant and these young men and women serve as outstanding role models for their communities and the generations of student-athletes who follow in their footsteps.”

Fox-Grey comes to the Pronghorns after playing two seasons with Lethbridge Kodiaks. From the Blood Reserve, Fox-Grey played his high school basketball at Lethbridge Collegiate Institute and is a six-foot-seven forward. He’ll be pursuing a Bachelor of Science at ULethbridge.

“As an Indigenous student-athlete, I do see myself as a positive role model for the next generation of Indigenous Athletes,” says Fox-Grey. “I hope that I can inspire them to strive to be just like me or even go further in their own pursuits.”

Saokiawakaasi is the Blackfoot word for pronghorn.

Pronghorn Athletics kicking off new tradition with triple header opening weekend

trevor.kenney — Thu, 01 Sep 2022 15:50:24 +0000

It’s the start of something big for Pronghorn Athletics — not just this fall but for years to come. The inaugural Horns Triple Header, featuring Canada West regular season games with the Pronghorns men’s and women’s soccer teams and women’s rugby team, debuts Saturday, September 17, 2022, at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Community Stadium. It promises to be quite the party.

“This is something that’s been in the works for a couple years now and we’re excited to finally be able to invite everyone out for a full day of Canada West soccer and rugby action,” says Neil Langevin, executive director of Pronghorn Athletics. “We see this as a real celebration of sport and the start of the new school year — a chance for everyone to get together, wear their blue and gold and enjoy a great day at the stadium.”

Fun is the focus with a host of activities planned, complete with music, tailgate games, sign making, face painting and food and drink — a real festival atmosphere.

“We can’t wait to welcome the community to campus again and to have our students back in the stands enjoying Pronghorn Athletics,” adds Langevin. “We have some special things planned for our alumni as well and look forward to seeing some familiar faces back at the stadium.”

Admission is free to all three games with the doors opening at 11 a.m. Check out the day’s schedule below.

Horns Triple Header — Saturday, September 17

Doors open — 11 a.m.

Discounted meal packages, priced at $10 each, include a can of pop ($12 with an alcoholic beverage), smokie or cheeseburger (or burger alternative) and bag of chips. Visit Horns Triple Header to register and get the discounted price that is only available for pre-orders.

Canada West Women’s Soccer — Pronghorns vs. UBCO Heat, 12 p.m.
Canada West Men’s Soccer — Pronghorns vs. Trinity Western Spartans, 2:15 p.m.
Tailgate Party — Sign making, tailgate games (cornhole, spikeball, giant jenga), DJ, face painting, photo booth, food & beverage area, 4:30 to 6:45 p.m.
Canada West Rugby — Pronghorns vs. ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Alberta Pandas, 7 p.m.

ULethbridge alumni are eligible to purchase a package that includes field-side access, a concession combo, alumni swag and more.

“This is the first of what we see as an annual tradition and something we expect will get bigger and better every year,” says Langevin.

Pronghorn Athletics to enshrine two basketball greats in 1st Choice Savings Centre rafters

trevor.kenney — Wed, 28 Apr 2021 17:15:47 +0000

Two of the most highly decorated Pronghorn athletes to ever step on the hardcourt will be enshrined in the rafters of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge’s 1st Choice Savings Centre next season. Shawna (Molcak) Kolaczek and Perry Mirkovich (BASc '80, BEd '82) will have their jersey numbers retired as Pronghorn Athletics reinvigorates a campaign to celebrate its rich history.

“Part of being a Pronghorn athlete is continuing the legacy of those exceptional student-athletes who established the foundation of our programs,” says Pronghorn Athletic Director Neil Langevin. “We have, in various ways, honoured some of these foundational athletes and now we are committing to a consistent program whereby we celebrate their contributions to Pronghorn Athletics in a manner befitting their accomplishments.”

Perry Mirkovich

Lethbridge, Alberta product Perry Mirkovich joined the Pronghorns men’s basketball team in 1975 after graduating from Winston Churchill High School. Mirkovich developed into a tremendously versatile guard/forward who hit shots from long range, made short pull-ups or could fly high above the rim.

“Perry Mirkovich is one of the most skilled and outstanding university basketball players I had the good fortune to coach,” says former Pronghorn head coach Ken Olynyk.

Playing all five years of his collegiate eligibility in the Horns’ blue and gold, Mirkovich was named to the Canada West All-Star team in each of his final three seasons and won back-to-back Canada West scoring titles in 1978-79 and 1979-80.

He also wrapped up his university career by being named to the CIAU All-Canadian team in his final season, and was honoured as the U of L Male Athlete of the Year in 1980.

At the end of his Pronghorn career, Mirkovich held the school’s all-time scoring record with 1,690 points, a record in place for nearly 20 years. He still remains second on the all-time scoring list and is third in career rebounds with 757.

Mirkovich had also set the program’s single-season record for points in a game, scoring 43 on November 9, 1979 versus the Victoria Vikes — a record he shared until 2018.

Following his Pronghorn career, Mirkovich was named to the 1980 Canadian National team, and despite Canada boycotting the 1980 Summer Olympics in Moscow, he is officially recognized as a Canadian Olympian.

During the qualification process for the Olympics, Mirkovich helped Canada to a silver medal at an Olympic qualifying tournament in Puerto Rico.

Later that summer, he was selected in the sixth-round of the NBA draft by the Portland Trailblazers. He was also named the Southern Alberta Male Athlete of the Year.

“Perry was a dominant force on the court, drafted by the NBA in 1980, a European pro and most importantly one of the finest people I have come across in my lifetime,” continues Olynyk. “Following four decades of friendship, I am extremely pleased the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge is bestowing this deserving honour and recognizing Perry’s accomplishments by retiring his uniform.”

Shawna (Molcak) Kolaczek

Another southern Alberta product, Shawna (Molcak) Kolaczek starred for the Pronghorns from 1986 to 1991 and her accomplishments in blue and gold are remarkable.

“It is truly awesome that Shawna has been chosen as the first female student athlete at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge to have her jersey retired,” says former Pronghorns women’s basketball head coach Trix Baker. “She was one of the most successful athletes to come out of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of, and it was a great pleasure for me to have coached her at the university, provincial and national program level.”

The Canada West Player of the Year for the 1988-89 season, Kolaczek was also a four-time Canada West All-Star, three-time CIAU All-Canadian and the U of L Female Athlete of the Year four years running (1987-91).

Now 30 years after she last wore the Horns’ blue and gold, she is still the program’s all-time leader in points (1,551) and assists (368). Her career point total is still among the top 15 in Canada West history.

Kolaczek was the Canada West scoring leader for the 1988-89 season and was named to the 1988 CIAU All-Tournament team as the program made its second-ever appearance ever at the national tournament.

“An outstanding scorer and playmaker, Shawna was not only a prolific scorer, she made all her teammates better as she distributed the ball through her great court sense and basketball IQ,” adds Baker.

On the international stage, Kolaczek represented Canada continuously from 1990 to 2000, highlighted by being a member of the 1996 Canadian Olympic team at the Atlanta Olympics.

She won a bronze medal at the 1990 World Student Games and helped Canada to gold at the 1995 America’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament.

Kolaczek went on to play elite European professional basketball, including seven years in Germany and one in Greece, and was named a First Division All-Star on three separate occasions.

“She was a physically gifted athlete who showed great durability and strength throughout her career, seldom missing practices or competitions for any reason,” continues Baker. “Always there for her teammates, she could be relied on to give it her very best each time she stepped on the court. A great role model for future basketball players!”

Pronghorn Athletics looks forward to hosting a live event to honour both Perry and Shawna. Stay tuned to gohorns.ca for an announcement regarding a celebration event next athletic season.

UNews - Neil Langevin

��Ѹ�����Դ���߿�Ƭ excited to unveil Co-op Centre for Sport & Wellness through 25-year partnership

Related Topics

Dr. Tim Rollingson Jr. earns recognition as 2025 Pronghorn Alumni of the Year

Related Topics

Everyone invited to kick off athletics season at Pronghorn Celebration Weekend, Sept. 19-21

Related Topics

��Ѹ�����Դ���߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge and Pronghorn Athletics embark on Blackfoot mark project, call for artists

Related Topics

Former men's basketball standout Cam Slomp named 2024 Pronghorn Alumni of the Year

Related Topics

Boulet gift establishes permanent endowment for Ric Suggitt Women's Rugby Memorial Award

Related Topics

Pronghorn Athletics launches 26th Instalment of Operation Red Nose

Related Topics

Pronghorn Athletics introduces Saokiawakaasi Scholarship for Blackfoot student-athletes

Related Topics

Pronghorn Athletics kicking off new tradition with triple header opening weekend

Related Topics

Pronghorn Athletics to enshrine two basketball greats in 1st Choice Savings Centre rafters

Related Topics

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ excited to unveil Co-op Centre for Sport & Wellness through 25-year partnership

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge and Pronghorn Athletics embark on Blackfoot mark project, call for artists