Laurentian University athletes Caitlin Tino and Patrick Murphy
know there's a lot more to sports than just competing and
winning.
Both athletes go the extra mile to make an impact and
difference in their respective sports and the local
community.
Tino and Murphy were recognized by Laurentian Athletics
recently for their outstanding achievements in sport, but more
importantly, their volunteer work.
They were winners of the Male and Female Voyageur Award.
Tino has served as the president of the Laurentian Athletics
Student-Athlete Advisory Council. The native of Toronto
spearheaded a number of initiatives that included a highly
successful graduate school program, which saw Laurentian
athletes go into school classrooms and talk about the
importance of physical activity, staying drug free and in
school, as well as running physical education classes for the
children.
Tino, a modest person, was blown away by being selected as the
female Voyageur Award winner.
"It was very humbling," said the fourth-year sports and
physical education student. "I was shocked I won. I do a lot of
volunteer work, not to be recognized, but I do it because I
love to do it. It is very nice to be recognized."
Tino never has any reservations about giving back her time.
"In my experiences, I've worked with many underprivileged kids
in community centres," said the 21-year-old. "I like giving
back to the community and helping youth. If I had not been
introduced to running at a young age, I wouldn't have made a
lot of the choices I made to get where I am today."
Tino stood out at Laurentian.
"Caitlin is very deserving of this award," said cross-country
head coach Dick Moss. "She had a busy year with her
extracurricular activities, but managed to find time to train,
race and attend classes. She was intramural co-ordinator,
president of the Athlete's Advisory Council, a team leader and
organized the athlete outreach program."
Tino takes care of business.
"Caitlin is a tough athlete and a vocal leader," said Moss.
"She is willing to take charge and get things done. She was our
fourth highest scorer at the OUA Championships and third at the
CIS Championships. We're going to miss her both on the race
course and the dressing room."
Tino relished her road trips with her teammates and was glad
she came to Laurentian.
"I'm from a big city, but I learned a lot by coming to
Sudbury," said the Toronto native. "I learned to be more
resilient here...and took advantage of the smaller classes. I
am honoured to be part of Laurentian's history. I hope to go to
teacher's college. I want to teach middle or high school kids
so I can be involved in coaching and showing youth how to
run."
Murphy was the captain of the men's soccer squad. Off the
field, Murphy spent a lot of time during his career
contributing to campus life and the pride and tradition of
Laurentian Athletics. He was an emcee for several events and
for the past two seasons, he wore the Laurentian Voyageur
mascot suit entertaining the crowds with his zany behaviour.
Murphy has also taught soccer skills to kids at youth sports
camps.
"It meant a lot to me to win the award," said the fifth year
zoology student. "It told me I was giving back and making a
difference and that my work hadn't gone unnoticed."
Murphy leaped at the opportunity to become the Laurentian
mascot.
"I saw mascots on television when I was younger and I always
wanted to be one," said the Guelph native. "I like making
people laugh, so why not do it? I jumped at the chance once it
became available. It was a lot of fun."
Murphy's experience on a young team helped the team earn much
success.
"Patrick was our captain and his leadership was key this season
with 15 rookies on the squad," said men's soccer head coach
Carlo Castrechino. "Players really look up to him and listen
when he speaks. He's deserving of this award...he gave a lot to
Laurentian and the university gave a lot back to him. He is a
true Voyageur. Patrick is a great guy...very funny and genuine.
He has the respect of the players and coaches."
Murphy enjoyed his time at Laurentian.
"I had to earn my spot on the team...it paid off in the end
when I was named team captain in my final season," said the
23-year-old. "That was the highlight of my career. I was proud
to be a part of this university. I'm thinking of going to
teacher's college in Australia."
