Varsityblues.ca will highlight the nominees of U of T's major awards – men's and women's rookies of the year, Dr. Clara Benson honour award, George M. Biggs trophy, as well as the men's and women's Frank Pindar and T-Holders' athletes of the year - to be announced at the Varsity Blues Awards Gala on Saturday, April 6.
The following Varsity Blues athletes were nominated by their coaches and chosen through the awards selection process as finalists for the men's Frank Pindar athlete of the year award, given annually to an athlete competing in a sport whose official season concludes with either an OUA or other university recognized championship event. (in alphabetical order):
Diego Gonzalez Delgado - Water Polo
Diego Gonzalez Delgado, a power forward on the U of T men's water polo team, led the Blues in clinching the OUA championship title this season. With an overall team record of 14-6, Gonzalez Delgado and the Blues most notably secured wins over four NCAA schools this year, while also maintaining a perfect 10-0 record against OUA opponents. Delgado's individual accomplishments are equally impressive, as he was named the OUA championship most valuable player. He displayed his skill and leadership with a standout performance at the OUA championship, scoring 5 goals across 2 games, including 3 goals in the gold medal game, underscoring his impact on the team's success.
Mike Howard - Fencing
A skilled fencer, Mike Howard aided the Varsity Blues men's fencing team in winning the OUA championship. Howard garnered recognition as an OUA all-star and showcased his talent by clinching the gold medal in the OUA championship individual foil event, winning the Charles Walter Trophy. Additionally, he displayed versatility and excellence at the Queen's Open, securing gold in the individual epee competition and silver in the individual foil event. Howard's success extended to team events as well, contributing to victory in the RMC Cup foil team relay, demonstrating his prowess and contribution to his team's achievements.
Jackey Kuang - Rugby
A winger on the Varsity Blues men's rugby team, Jackey Kuang helped U of T in one of its best seasons in recent history. The Blues finished fifth in the OUA regular season with a 2-4 record, marking their first two-win season in over a decade, Kuang's individual achievements are noteworthy as he was named an OUA second-team all-star and showcased his commitment and determination by starting every game and playing the full 80 minutes each time. Additionally, Kuang contributed offensively, scoring three tries throughout the season. Notably, he is also a member of the Toronto Arrows Academy, highlighting his dedication to advancing his skills in the sport.
Hugo Li - Figure Skating
Competing with the U of T figure skating team, Hugo Li and the Blues achieved success as OUA silver medalists and Brock Invitational team gold medalists. Individually, Li's accomplishments are impressive, earning him recognition as an OUA all-star. He demonstrated his skill in various disciplines, claiming gold in Senior Couples Pairs and silver in both the Star 8/9 Couples Dance and Gold Free Program events at the OUA championship. Additionally, Li showcased his talent by clinching silver in both the Gold Free Program and Senior Couples Pairs categories at the Brock Invitational, highlighting his consistency and excellence in figure skating competitions this season.
Ali Shalaby - Squash
Providing the Blues squash team with exceptional play all season long, Ali Shalaby helped U of T secure a bronze medal at the OUA championship following an impressive 9-1 record during regular season competition. Individually, Ali earned recognition as an OUA all-star and served as the Blues No. 1 player and team captain. He showcased his skill at the OUA championship with a 3-2 record. Throughout the regular season, Ali also helped lead the University of Toronto to victory in six 7-0 sweeps.
Owen Taylor - Baseball
Outstanding in the Blues outfield this season, Owen Taylor assisted the Blues in their run to the OUA championship banner. Following an impressive 11-2 regular season and impeccable 4-0 regional record, Blues baseball went on to win in both the OUA semifinals and final to achieve their gold medal. Individually, Owen received accolades as the OUA championship MVP and earned a spot on the OUA first team all-star roster. His remarkable stats include 37 hits, 19 walks, 33 runs, 32 RBIs, and a .416 batting average in 89 at-bats over 26 games played, placing him among the top performers on the Blues. Additionally, Owen showcased his versatility by pitching 9 strikeouts with a 1.40 ERA in 5.0 innings pitched over 4 games. This included a clutch performance in the OUA final, where he pitched the final inning, securing a 6-5 extra-inning win with back-to-back strikeouts.
