OSHAWA, Ont. – The historical Ridgebacks lacrosse season may be in the books, but OUA all-star Kendra Orr is adding another award to her trophy case.
 
Orr was named the inaugural winner of the Her Mark Award on Thursday afternoon at 2200 North. The award is given to one female athlete from the Durham Region who is in good academic standing and is a role model in one or more of the following three pillars: physical education, nutrition education, and mental health.
 
"Being awarded the Her Mark Award is an incredible honour and reflects my lifelong dedication to sport, inclusivity, and community empowerment in the Durham Region," said Orr.
 
The award was presented by the founder of Her Mark and Ontario Tech alumna, Dr. Kate Beirness, who has broken barriers across the sports landscape as the dynamic host of Toronto Raptors broadcasts and CFL on TSN. She was also awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Ontario Tech and holds the distinction of being the first graduate of the university to receive this prestigious honour.
 
Since joining the Ridgebacks in 2022 as a Kinesiology major, Orr has excelled both on and off the field. She was named the 2022/2023 Ridgebacks Lacrosse Rookie of the Year and earned back-to-back OUA All-Star selections in 2023 and 2024. Her athletic talent was crucial in the team's success, contributing to an OUA silver medal in 2024.
 
Beyond her athletic accomplishments, Kendra is committed to promoting a healthy and active lifestyle. As an ASAD Strength and Conditioning Coach and a Lacrossing Barrier coach, she actively guides others in developing healthy lifestyles while creating a supportive environment for mental well-being. Her outstanding dedication to these pillar