VICKY SIEMON
SPORTS REPORTER

There was even more to celebrate at this year’s athletic banquet because the Hawks made history with Humber winning the most golds in the OCAA.

“This is the most successful year in history out of any other OCAA school in terms of success in championships,” said assistant athletic director Jim Bialek.

Hawks won 13 gold medals in 15 sports. Over 50 awards were given out throughout the course of the night, with most valuable players and rookies of the year given to individuals from each team, athletes of the year, and various leadership and spirit awards.

“Athlete of the year in my mind is one of the most prestigious awards you can win, and is one that I have always dreamed to be honored with,” said Andrew DaSilva, star player of the men’s soccer team.

Landis Doyle, women’s volleyball, and Joanna Alexopulos, women’s soccer, won the female athletes of the year.  DaSilva, men’s soccer, and Mark Hoffman, men’s golf, captured the male athletes of the year titles.

“It is a great way to cap off my Humber career, knowing that all of my hard work has paid off and is something I will share with my coaches and teammates who have helped me become the best I can be,” said DaSilva.

The athletes of the year awards were given out to those who not only contributed to the success of their team but also to Humber athletics.

“The awards are based on their success in the year but we also take into account how long they have been here, the year they’ve had, what they bring as far as leadership, and what they bring to athletics as a whole,” said Bialek.

The two-time all Canadian, Alexopulos, was not only recognized as someone to receive this award but also the evening’s valedictorian.  She reflected on her experiences as a Hawk, and gave advice to those who still have years to look forward to.

“Accepting it’s my last year has been my biggest challenge,” Alexopulos said. “It’s important to enjoy every minute of it because it goes by so fast.”

In 1996, the media excellence award was created in honor of a journalism student who passed away playing basketball in his driveway.

It is now called the Joe Suzor award.

Special recognition went to Carey French who has played a big role on the field and in the newsroom.

After seven years of being head coach for the men’s rugby team, he is stepping down.

French was central in initiating a rugby program and was a former player himself. He is also the co-ordinator for the journalism program at Humber and advisor for Sweat magazine.