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Keane wins Champion of EDI Award

Ridgebacks women's hockey equipment manager Sam Kene has been recognized as a Champion of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion by Ontario University Athletics (OUA) in their year-end awards.
Wed, Mar 6, 2024

OSHAWA, Ont. – Ridgebacks women's hockey equipment manager Sam Kene has been recognized as a Champion of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion by Ontario University Athletics (OUA) in their year-end awards.

Keane, who lives with stage two spastic triplegia affecting three of his limbs, has had an undeniable impact on the program as their equipment manager. Often the first at the rink and the last one to leave, Keane's work ethic is second to none.

In 2019, Keane won the Sase Narayan Unsung Hero Award at the Ridgebacks Gala. The Unsung Hero Award recognizes a student who positively influenced a program or organization from behind the scenes with a positive attitude, a willingness to help in whatever capacity necessary, and a commitment to excellence.

Outside of his commitments to Ridgebacks women's hockey, Keane can often be found supporting the Ridgebacks women's soccer team at Vaso's Field, where he has forged a bond with several current and past players. He also made connections throughout the OUA with players and staff of visiting teams.

After an outstanding seven years with the Ridgebacks, Keane is leaving the hockey world to pursue professional opportunities with Grandview Kids where he joined their Family Engagement Team as a Peer Navigator, but his commitment to women's sports and advocacy for inclusion will have a lasting impact on varsity athletics at Ontario Tech.