community

UNBC Legacy Night raises nearly $129,000 for student-athletes

Nov 5, 2026 | 10:08 AM

PRINCE GEORGE — The 12th annual UNBC Timberwolves Legacy Night raised $128,927 to support student-athletes through bursaries and scholarships, marking another successful year for the fundraising event.

Presented by Canadian Tire and held on Oct. 21 at the Prince George Civic Centre, the evening brought together community supporters, sponsors, alumni and student-athletes to celebrate and invest in the future of UNBC Athletics.

“Legacy Night reflects the strength of the relationships that make UNBC and the Timberwolves community so special,” said UNBC Interim President Dr. Bill Owen. “The generosity of donors and supporters helps student-athletes make the most of their University experience, both in competition and in the classroom.”

The event began with a VIP Sponsor Reception presented by BMO, followed by a dinner program featuring keynote speaker Karina LeBlanc. The former Canadian women’s soccer star shared personal stories about purpose, leadership and perseverance, inspiring both guests and student-athletes in attendance.

UNBC women’s soccer alumna Paige Payne, who was inducted into the 2026 Wall of Honour, also addressed the crowd. Payne reflected on her journey from Kitimat to becoming the program’s all-time leading scorer.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the inaugural Curt Garland Award. Timberwolves Student Athlete Society President Hagon Kim became the first recipient of the honour, which recognizes a TSAS executive member who exemplifies the late Curt Garland’s values of humility, service, positive influence and philanthropy.

Auctioneer Melissa Barcellos led attendees through eight live auction items before LeBlanc delivered the evening’s keynote address.

Guests were also shown a three-part video series featuring fifth-year women’s soccer defender Kambria Mellum, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the daily life of a UNBC student-athlete.

UNBC Director of Athletics and Recreation Loralyn Murdoch credited the community’s support for the event’s success.

“We are incredibly grateful to the donors, sponsors and supporters who made our 12th annual Legacy Night such a success,” Murdoch said. “Raising $128,927 is an outstanding achievement, and every dollar raised makes a meaningful difference in the quality of life of our student-athletes.”

Murdoch added that Legacy Night continues to grow each year and said organizers are already looking ahead to the 2027 event.

Funds raised through Legacy Night will directly support UNBC student-athletes, helping them pursue both academic and athletic success.

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Email: Adam.Berls@pattisonmedia.com