KINGSTON, Ont. (April 2, 2025) – As part of the 89th annual Colour Awards, Queen's Athletics & Recreation recognized the dedication, leadership, and behind-the-scenes contributions that drive the success of Gaels Varsity Sports with the Support Service Awards.
Presented annually, these awards honour individuals whose commitment and impact have played a vital role in supporting Queen's student-athletes throughout the season.
For the 2024-25 season, Caelan Baron earned Strength & Conditioning Intern of the Year, recognized for efforts in enhancing athlete performance and development. Cassidy Banks received the Hal Dunlop Shield, celebrating outstanding dedication to athletic therapy and athlete care. Nick Liberatore was awarded the Academic Support Award, recognizing a commitment to student-athlete success both on and off the field.
Strength & Conditioning Intern of the Year - Caelan Baron
Every year our graduating intern group continues to raise the bar for the program, and this year is no exception. This year's recipient truly went above and beyond the role at every opportunity. There would be times where I would look to get a task completed, only to find out that this person has already taken care of it. When the interns apply to the program, one of the interview questions we ask them is how would you leave this program better than you found it? This individual certainly understood the assignment. This person plans to head off to teacher's college in the fall, and I can't think of a better person to have so much impact on so many young people in the future. This year's Varsity Support Service Award for the Strength and Conditioning Intern of the Year goes to Caelan Baron.
Hal Dunlop Shield (Athletic Therapy) - Cassidy Banks
Every year our graduating intern group continues to raise the bar for the program, and this year is no exception. This year's recipient truly went above and beyond the role at every opportunity. There would be times where I would look to get a task completed, only to find out that this person has already taken care of it. When the interns apply to the program, one of the interview questions we ask them is how would you leave this program better than you found it? This individual certainly understood the assignment. This person plans to head off to teacher's college in the fall, and I can't think of a better person to have so much impact on so many young people in the future. This year's Varsity Support Service Award for the Strength and Conditioning Intern of the Year goes to Caelan Baron.
Academic Support Award - Nick Liberatore
It is my absolute pleasure to present this year's Athlete Services Award to someone who has had a profound impact on our student-athlete community. The transition from high school to university is never easy, and for our varsity student-athletes, balancing academics and athletics adds another level of challenge.
This year's award recipient took the lead in running Gaels 101 throughout the Fall 2024 term, overseeing a team of 25 student-athlete academic mentors and 121 first-year student-athletes. Over 12 weeks, they coordinated 5 themed presentations and countless hours of mentor-led study hall sessions, creating an environment where first-year student-athletes could learn, grow, and succeed.
What truly sets this person apart is their unwavering dedication, ability to connect with student-athletes, and passion for their success—both in the classroom and beyond. They've made Gaels 101 more than just a program—it's become a community, a support system, a vital part of the Queen's student-athlete experience and for some a Sunday Karaoke Sess. It is my absolute pleasure to present this year's Athlete Services Award to a man of many titles—Assistant Football Coach, the GOAT, Gaels 101 extraordinaire, Coach Lib, Mr. Nick Liberatoire.
