Perhaps it’s only fitting that a day after International Women’s Day a pair of females – for the first time in St. Catharines history – were named the city’s Athlete and Sportsperson of the Year.
Both represent the sport of basketball with Brock Badgers star player Madalyn Weinert, and Niagara River Lions President Michelle Biskup.
Weinert’s 2025 was a year for the ages.
She was named Ontario University Athletics (OUA) Player of the Year for a second straight year. Followed by first team All Canadian.
Weinert then won a gold medal with Team Canada at Globl Jam in Toronto as the only USports athlete on the roster.
The Eden High School graduate then became Brock’s all-time leading scorer, before adding all-time rebound and steals leader as well.
And just last week Weinert was named USports (Canadian University) Player of the Year.
“It is an incredible honour to be recognized by the City of St. Catharines,” Weinert said. “It is never lost on me how special of an opportunity I have had over the last five years to play in front of family and friends every weekend. I am incredibly grateful for this community and how they have supported me through every step of my journey.”
Weinert hopes to parlay her epic Badgers career into a pro contract overseas.
Biskup became the first female President to win a men’s sport championship when the Niagara River Lions captured their second straight Canadian Elite Basketball League championship last August.
Biskup, who has been with the River Lions since their first year of existence back in 2015, went from Communications and Operations with the club to to Vice-President before taking over as President in 2025.
“Being named Sportsperson of the Year is an incredible honor,” said Biskup. “It’s a reflection of the hard work, dedication, and support from our team, fans, and community. I hope this recognition inspires others to chase their goals, push their limits, and make a positive impact both on and off the court.”
Both Weinert and Biskup were honoured Monday night at St. Catharines City Hall in council chambers.
Weinert’s grandparents even flew in from Florida to surprise their granddaughter.
Mayor Mat Siscoe’s opening remarks reflected on the significance of the pair being the first duo-females to win the awards in the same year.
“We are thrilled to present Madalyn and Michelle with the 2025 St. Catharines Athlete and Sportsperson of the Year awards,” Siscoe said.
“I can’t think of more deserving recipients than either of them. One of, if not the most decorated, impactful basketball players in the history of our community. Being at the top of so many meaningful statistical categories with the Brock Badgers, doesn’t tell the whole story; her leadership on the court demonstrates what a fantastic talent she truly is.
And Michelle, being a trailblazer for young females to look up to, making sports history in 2025.
Congratulations to both, so worthy, award winners.”
The River Lions tip-off their 2026 season in May with Biskup at the helm once again.
Rod Mawhood is a lifelong Niagara native who has had the pleasure of working in all three mediums – Radio, Print and TV – for over 20 years. His first announcing gig was with the then St. Catharines Stompers. Since then he’s worked in radio and TV in Toronto, and currently is the announcer for the Niagara IceDogs and Niagara River Lions.
Rod also covers the Buffalo Bills for FOX Sports and the Buffalo Sabres for NBC Sports.
