Also a symbol of the Province of Manitoba, the bison, in many Indigenous cultures in Canada and the United States is a being whose qualities instill pride and are linked to identity. The bison gives its life so that others can survive – they give everything of themselves. A bison does not operate alone but rather, the entire herd works together as one. In the face of danger a herd of bison all turn together to unite against adversity, move in sync and defend their young or wounded. They are loyal and stick together. The bison turns to face head first into the wind and stands firmly against a storm.

We thrive in the pursuit of excellence

Among the elite inter university sport programs in Canada, the Bisons boast more than 375 student-athletes every year, fielding 16 teams across nine sports. Through the years, Bisons teams have laid claim to 50 U SPORTS national championships, produced national team and Olympic athletes, and have watched many former Bisons carry on their careers in professional leagues around the world. In the classroom, our student-athletes have consistently ranked among the country’s top 10 universities for producing the most Academic All-Canadians, with 2,549 as one 2025-26.

 

We give back

The Bisons student-athlete experience also makes an impact beyond sports through the University of Manitoba Athletic Council (UMAC). The student-led council participates in many community outreach programs like Bisons Against Bullying, Bison Book Buddies and volunteer opportunities through organizations such as Siloam Mission.
 

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Student-athlete support

Thanks to the generous support of UM, the Provincial government, alumni, community partners and donors, we are able to give more than $750,000 in athletic scholarships to Bisons student-athletes every year, averaging approximately $2800 per recipient. Additionally, Bisons student-athletes receive over $150,000 in UM entrance or academic scholarships, bursaries, external awards and more.

Visit UM Financial Aid and Awards

Performance support

Our student-athletes are backed by the Bisons Integrated Support Team (BIST), a compliment of athletic therapy, nutrition, sport psychology, and strength and conditioning experts. Collectively, this team strives to contribute to the health and wellbeing of student-athletes through an individualized interdisciplinary approach to maximize each student-athlete's potential and optimize team performance.

Learn more about BIST