In the midst of this historic year, with the Bisons competitive season being claimed by the COVID-19 pandemic, student-athletes stayed true to their values and continued to demonstrate leadership through their commitment to and support of the community. This week, Bison Sports recognized two outstanding student-athletes by awarding the Bisons Leadership and Community Development Award to:  Brielle Dacquay-Neveux (women's hockey) and James Wagner (men's basketball).
 
Brielle Dacquay-Neveux
Brielle is an active and engaged member of the University of Manitoba Athletic Council (UMAC), taking part in Bisons Against Bullying, Siloam Mission and CAN U Christmas hampers. She is an integral part of the women's hockey program and earned her teammates' respect through everyday effort in practices and through her leadership in helping guide younger players in the dressing room. 
 
"During her time with the Bisons, Brielle has become a trusted and helpful leader on the Bisons women's hockey team and her leadership has made an impact on the UMAC community outreach programs like Bisons Book Buddies and Bisons Against Bullying, and with the CAN U Holiday Hamper program," said Curt Warkentin, Bison Sports associate director. "Brielle is a great example of what a Bisons student-athlete can be. She has made both her team and the community at large a better place through her efforts."
 
James Wagner
James, a fifth year athlete and captain of the men's basketball team, is an active participant with UMAC who has earned the respect of his team, coaches and Bison sports staff for his actions and leadership both on and off the court. This past December Wagner coordinated a new initiative, the Bisons Blood Drive generating more than 100 blood donations in support of Canadian Blood Services. James has also played an active role with Bisons Book Buddies and volunteered his time to help organize events like the West End Cultural Centre's women's Hygiene Product Drive and the­ Can U Holiday hamper program. 
 
"James has been an excellent athlete and outstanding student right from when he joined the Bisons Men's basketball team. What we have witnessed over the past couple years is his growth as a leader both on his team and with the Bisons family as a whole. His leadership and initiative to organize the Bisons Blood Drive was particularly impressive. James' impact on his team, on the Bisons and on our community have been extraordinary and inspiring," commented Warkentin.
 
Congratulations to both Brielle and James on being awarded the Bisons Leadership and Community Development Award.