KINGSTON, Ont. (April 1, 2025) – Erin Hull and Kai Faller were named Queen's University Varsity Clubs First Year Players of the Year for the 2024-25 season at the 89th annual Colour Awards banquet on Tuesday night.

Both athletes received the prestigious Alfie Pierce Trophy, an honor first presented by Arts '47 in tribute to Alfie Pierce, who dedicated a lifetime to supporting and training Queen's inter-university teams. The trophy is awarded annually to a male and female student—across both Varsity Clubs and Varsity Teams—who have made the most significant contribution to inter-university athletics in a first year at Queen's.

Hull (Kinesiology), a goalkeeper for Queen's Women's Lacrosse, was named Varsity Clubs First Year Player of the Year for Women's Sports. A standout in net, Hull led the OUA in wins and posted a program-best goals-against average of 3.25. A composed and vocal leader, Hull played a key role in organizing the defensive unit and providing strong communication on the field, resulting in OUA Rookie of the Year and OUA Defensive Player of the Year nominations.  

"She started every game this year as a rookie goalie and proved she belonged from the first game of the season," said Queen's Women's Lacrosse Head Coach Mike Watson. "Her maturity was evident in how she remained calm before, during, and after games."

Faller (Engineering), a midfielder for Queen's Men's Lacrosse, was named Varsity Clubs First Year Player of the Year for Men's Sports. An impact player from the start, Faller started all 14 games and ranked among the team's top point producers, capping the season with 14 goals and five assists for 19 points.

Hailing from Buffalo, N.Y., Faller delivered a breakthrough performance during the Baggataway Cup playoffs, stepping up against the undefeated No. 1 seed, the Guelph Gryphons, and leading the team with two goals and an assist. A strong postseason run helped propel Queen's to the 2024 Baggataway Cup Final.

"Despite being a first-year student, Kai quickly earned the respect and praise of everyone on the team," said Queen's Men's Lacrosse Head Coach Connor Kearnan. "He is always willing to do whatever is needed to help the team win. "A natural attack-man, Kai was asked to transition to midfield, a challenge that he embraced and excelled in—earning himself a spot in the CUFLA All-Star rookie game."