Varsityblues.ca will highlight the nominees of U of T’s major awards – men’s and women’s rookies of the year, Dr. Clara Benson honour award, George M. Biggs trophy, as well as the men’s and women’s Frank Pindar and T-Holders’ athletes of the year – to be announced at the Varsity Blues Awards Gala on Saturday, April 6.
The following Varsity Blues athletes were nominated by their coaches and chosen through the awards selection process as finalists for the men’s T-Holders’ athlete of the year, presented annually to the athlete who has exhibited the highest degree of athletic excellence (in alphabetical order):
Hunter Arulragasam – Volleyball
A standout on the Varsity Blues men’s volleyball team this season, Hunter Arulpragasam helped the Blues reach the OUA quarter-finals after a seventh place finish in the OUA regular season with a record of 13-7. The outside hitter earned recognition as an OUA first-team all-star and dominated the league in kills with 284 total and 4.37 kills per set, ranking him at the top. Additionally, he showcased versatility by ranking in the Top 5 for digs with 146 and 2.25 digs per set. Notably, Arulpragasam achieved 20 or more points in six matches, reaching a career-high of 27 points in an exciting home court win over RMC in January.
Callum Baker – Basketball
An exceptional guard on the men’s basketball team, Callum Baker led the Blues to a first-place finish in the OUA West division, and a run to the OUA semifinals. His scoring prowess saw him finish first in the OUA scoring race and ranking third in U SPORTS, averaging an impressive 23.4 points per game. He earned prestigious titles including U SPORTS first team All-Canadian and OUA player of the year, alongside OUA first team all-star recognition. Additionally, he excelled in various statistical categories, ranking in the Top 10 in the OUA for total assists (81), three-pointers (55), free throw percentage (83.1), and total minutes played (776). Notably, Callum displayed remarkable consistency, scoring double-digit points in every game, achieving 20 or more points in 16 games, and surpassing 30 points in five games throughout the season.
Emmett Bravakis – Track & Field
Emmett Bravakis, a standout track and field athlete specializing in sprints, showcased remarkable talent throughout the season, contributing significantly to his team’s success. Individually, Bravakis shone brightly, earning recognition as a U SPORTS first-team All-Canadian after earning gold in the 300m event at the U SPORTS championships. In the OUA circuit, he was honored as a first-team all-star after seizing gold in both the 300m race and the 4x400m relay. Additionally, he claimed silver in the 4x200m relay, further cementing his status as a top athlete in the sport.
Francesco Fortino – Wrestling
In one of the best seasons from a Varsity Blues wrestler in recent years, Francesco Fortino’s individual accomplishments are notable. He earned recognition as a U SPORTS second-team All-Canadian after securing the men’s 61kg silver medal with an impressive 3-1 record at the U SPORTS Championships. Additionally this season, he was named an OUA second-team all-star after clinching the men’s 61kg silver medal at the OUA provincial championships with a remarkable 5-1 record. During invitational competition he also garnered podium results at the TMU Open and Guelph Open.
Ben Loewen – Swimming
Ben Loewen, a swimmer specializing in the butterfly stroke, played a key role in his team’s remarkable success, securing both the OUA and U SPORTS championships. Individually, Loewen earned recognition as a U SPORTS first-team All-Canadian, claiming national gold in the 200 IM event, while adding silver in both the 200 fly and 400 IM, and bronze in the 200 backstroke. Additionally, he was honored as an OUA first-team all-star, winning gold in the 200 backstroke, 200 IM, and 400 medley relay, and securing silver in the 200 fly. Loewen’s consistent performance and multiple medal wins underscore his excellence in the pool.
Nicholas Wong – Hockey
A dynamic playmaker on the men’s hockey team, Nicholas Wong helped his team achieve a regular season record of 17-10-1 (3rd West division), reaching the OUA quarter-finals. Wong’s individual achievements are notable, as he was named an OUA first-team all-star and led the Blues in goals (12), assists (22), points (34), and powerplay assists (8). He also co-led the team in powerplay goals (3) and game-winning goals (3), ranking in the Top 10 in the OUA for points (34), assists (22), and game-winning goals (3). Wong showcased his skill consistently, recording multiple points in eight games throughout the season, including a standout performance with a career-high four points (1 goal, 3 assists) against Western on Oct. 19.