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Western Communities Foundation recognizes leadership beyond sport with new Rattler athlete awards

Rattler athletes contribute to campus life and their communities in countless ways. Beyond competition, they serve as role models, build connections, overcome challenges and demonstrate the leadership skills that will support them long after graduation.

Thanks to a new five-year commitment from Western Communities Foundation (WCF), those contributions will receive additional recognition at Medicine Hat College (MHC).

Anna Stewart, 2025 Female Athlete of the Year and current Rattlers women's hockey goalie, shares a moment with young hockey player Sawyer during a community event.

The Foundation has committed $10,000 over five years to establish two Western Communities Foundation Athlete Leaders Awards. Valued at $1,000 each, the awards will be presented annually to one male and one female athlete who demonstrate leadership, resilience, character and community involvement.

“At Western Communities Foundation, we believe leadership is developed in many places, not just in classrooms or workplaces,” said Rod Cunniam, Board Chair of WCF. “Student-athletes demonstrate qualities such as resilience, discipline, teamwork, perseverance and accountability every day, qualities that help build stronger communities and future leaders.”

While athletic achievement is important, the awards were intentionally designed to recognize students whose contributions extend beyond sport.

WCF selected MHC as a partner based on the institution’s longstanding connection to the region and shared commitment to developing future leaders.

Since 2009, WCF has invested more than $51,000 in the Medicine Hat community through grants, donations and student-focused initiatives.

“We look for opportunities to invest in communities where our people live and work,” emphasized Cunniam. “Partnering with the College allows us to support local athletes while strengthening our connection to a region that has long been an important part of our organization.”

Leadership and community involvement are hallmarks of the Rattlers experience. Rattlers Athletics has been recognized with the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association's Community Service Award in 2019, 2020, 2024 and 2025.

For MHC, the awards help celebrate the many ways student-athletes contribute to campus life and the broader community.

"Rattler athletes are leaders, role models and ambassadors for the college," said Terry Ballard, Manager of Athletics and Recreation at MHC. "Rattlers Athletics is committed to the development of the whole student through our pillars of academics, athletics and citizenship and leadership. These awards recognize and celebrate those values while supporting students who are making a positive impact on campus and in the community."

The first Western Communities Foundation Athlete Leaders Awards will be presented during the 2026-27 academic year, helping recognize and support learners whose leadership, character and commitment to community make a lasting impact both within and beyond sport.