These awards are presented to the University of Calgary's most outstanding male and female Dinos in their first year of eligibility. The awards are named after Bill Popplewell who, in his position at Husky Energy, was instrumental in the sponsorship of numerous Dinos events.He has continued to do so in his position with Cochrane Toyota. A tireless supporter of Dinos Athletics for two decades, Bill's involvement has included sponsorship of various U SPORTS championships and the Husky Dino Cup, along with other promotions. Dinos coaches nominate their athletes for the award, and a selection committee narrows down those nominations to a maximum of three male and three female finalists. The nominees receive the Freshman Award of Merit.
AWARD WINNERS - 57th ANNUAL NIGHT OF THE DINO:
Mackenzie Cayer | Wrestling | Nursing | Calgary, AB
All season long, Cayer demonstrated that she was one of the top wrestlers in the country. The rookie earned Canada West Wrestler of the Week honours after a strong performance at the Golden Bear Invitational in January. When it mattered most at the Canada West Championships, she allowed just two points across three victories, ultimately claiming the gold medal. In the round robin at the national championships, Cayer won three bouts by pin and another by 10-0 tech fall. In the national gold medal match, she defeated the OUA champion with a 15-10 decision. Cayer was named U SPORTS Rookie of the Year for her outstanding performance..
Nicholas Duncan | Swimming | Kinesiology | Calgary, AB
Duncan brought a unique skill set to the UCalgary waters, and his talent was evident on the podium. At the Canada West Championships, he medalled in individual medley, backstroke, butterfly events, and the 800-metre freestyle relay, demonstrating his adaptability. At the U SPORTS Championships, Duncan claimed the national title in the 100-metre breaststroke and earned a bronze medal as part of the 400-metre medley relay team. His ability to score points in nearly any event proved crucial for the Dinos, helping them secure Canada West silver and U SPORTS bronze team finishes.
| YEAR |
MALE |
FEMALE |
| 2025 |
Nicholas Duncan (swimming) |
Mackenzie Cayer (wrestling) |
| 2024 |
Nick Hooper (wrestling) |
Alexanne Lepage (swimming) |
| 2023 |
Carl Tetachuk (hockey) |
Sydney Mercier (hockey) |
| 2022 |
Kundai Dziwa (soccer) |
Eilidh Wist (wrestling) |
| 2021 |
not awarded |
not awarded |
| 2020 |
Eryk Kobza (soccer) |
Tayler Guy (field hockey) |
| 2019 |
Tyson Philpot (football) |
Marit Anderson (swimming) |
| 2018 |
Frederik Kamminga (swimming) |
Erin Geddie (wrestling) |
| 2017 |
Bori Falaye (soccer) |
Danica Ludlow (swimming) |
| 2016 |
Callum McNeice (wrestling) |
Tianna Kennett (wrestling) |
| 2015 |
Lars Schlueter (basketball) |
Kate Pexman (volleyball) |
| 2014 |
Chris Collins (hockey) |
DaLeaka Menin (rugby) |
| 2013 |
Brett Blaszko (football) |
Tianna Rissling (swimming) |
| 2012 |
Teigan Zahn (hockey) |
Amanda Reason (swimming) |
| 2011 |
Eric Dzwilewski (football) |
Jenna Smith (hockey) |
| 2010 |
Linden Gaydosh (football) |
Allison Long (swimming) |
| 2009 |
Chris Hoag (volleyball) |
Erica Morningstar (swimming) |
| 2008 |
Tyler Fidler (basketball) |
Breanna Hendricks (swimming) |
| 2007 |
Dalin Tollestrup (football) |
Genevieve Haley (wrestling) |
| 2006 |
Travis Friedley (hockey) |
Tanis Bartolome (field hockey) |
| 2005 |
Scott Talbot (hockey) |
Lauren Perry (volleyball) |
| 2004 |
David Gruninger (football) |
Laura McDougall (wrestling) |
| 2003 |
Geoff Kerr (cross country) |
Janelle Findlay (volleyball) |
| 2002 |
Joe Bentley (wrestling) |
Natalie Schwartz (volleyball) |
| 2001 |
Whit Hornsberger (basketball) |
Kristy Cameron (swimming) |
| 2000 |
Trevor Phillips (track and field) |
Amanda Moppett (volleyball) |
