After winning a third straight OUA provincial banner, the University of Toronto Varsity Blues badminton team will aim to defend their national title as they head to Longueuil, Que., for the 2026 YONEX Canadian University College Championships.

Last season at the national showcase, U of T claimed the overall gold medal in the team event, defeating the Montreal Carabins, TMU Bold, UQAM Citadins, Western Mustangs, and Waterloo Warriors. In the individual championships that also follow the team event, the Blues also saw gold medals in the men's doubles and women's doubles, while adding bronze in mixed doubles and women's doubles.

With several returning student-athletes from the success a season ago, Toronto will be looking to minted veterans Nathan Mills, Clarence Chau, Jackie Dent, and Chloe Choi to once again lead the charge. The latter three received OUA all-star recognition during the Blues 5-0 run at the provincial showcase.

However, the provincial championship just a few weeks ago showed the Blues depth of first-year talent as well with both Asher Bedi and Emma Meng receiving OUA Rookie of the Year and OUA all-star honours. The pair went undefeated in pivotal matches to help U of T maintain their position atop the OUA.

Hosted by Cégep Édouard-Montpetit, the team event is set to take place from Mar. 19-21, while the individual events are scheduled from Mar. 19-22.