SAS helping shape peak performance

Recent notable highlights include the varsity basketball and rowing teams fully integrating a periodized strength and conditioning program to develop athletes at various points throughout the season. Says Simon Simon DeLuca ’25, one of Canada's top junior rowers, “The SAS has helped me grow as a rower through specific and personalized workouts.” 

“Our dryland training in the SAS has aided in the growth of the rowing program over the last three years,” adds Ethan Tremain-Calhoun ’25, another top varsity rower.

Individual athletes are also using the training facility to thrive in their respective sports, including cyclist Ashlin Barry ’25. An American citizen, Barry won gold at the U.S. National Time Trials and was top-10 at the Paris-Roubaix Juniors. "Doing regular maintenance and strength work in the SAS has allowed me to overcome and prevent overuse injuries while remaining a strong and well-rounded athlete,” he says. 

And then there’s Étienne Castonguay ’25, a UCC boarder and CrossFit competitor who finished in the top 10 in the world! “This CrossFit season has been incredible!” he says. “I've hit PRs in every lift and have consistently exceeded myself. I’m giving it my best every single day in the SAS, making use of this great equipment to push my limits even further.” 

Another exciting development is the recent implementation of the Certified SAS Coach program, offering students the opportunity to cultivate leadership skills and demonstrate commitment to UCC's wellbeing value. SAS Coach Arthur Fu ’25 trains there both recreationally and as a member of the varsity football and rugby teams. “As a boarder, coaching has given me the opportunity to connect with more peers and bring new students into the SAS,” he says. 

Jack Francis from the Class of 2026 is also a SAS Coach, as well as captain of varsity Ultimate Frisbee and head of the strength club. “It's a joy to connect with younger students through a common passion for fitness,” he says. “Being a coach allows me to build bonds that keep the SAS a great atmosphere.”