The University of Calgary is set to enshrine a new group of legends into its athletic history. As part of the institution's 60th-anniversary celebrations, the Dinos Hall of Fame will welcome its Class of 2026 during a ceremony next February. The inductees include three standout athletes, one influential coach, and two iconic teams that helped shape the university's sporting legacy.
A Foundation for Future Success
Ben Matchett, the Dinos' director of athletics, emphasized the significance of this year's class. "As we celebrate 60 years at UCalgary, it's only fitting that our Hall of Fame Class of 2026 recognizes a group which helped lay the foundation for our future success," Matchett stated. He praised each inductee for leaving a "legacy of success" that continues to inspire.
The athlete inductees are Ross Collett (football), Sandy Drever (multisport), and John Jenkins (hockey). Marilyn McNeil (basketball) will be honoured for her coaching contributions. Rounding out the class are the 1965–66 men's and women's basketball teams, whose achievements are being recognized decades later.
Spotlight on the Inductees
Ross Collett was a defensive force in the early days of Dinos football. A four-year star, he was one of the program's first four conference all-stars in 1968. His excellence was recognized with the UCalgary Male Athlete of the Year award in both 1967 and 1968, a feat only seven other Dinos have accomplished. His talent propelled him to the professional ranks, as he was selected in the fourth round of the 1969 CFL Draft by the Calgary Stampeders.
Sandy Drever exemplifies versatility and excellence. The Calgary native made her mark across basketball, field hockey, and volleyball for the Dinos, earning the Female Athlete of the Year title in 1969. A year later, she was instrumental in leading the women's volleyball team to the first national championship in school history. Her talents took her to the international stage, representing Canada in volleyball at the 1970 World Student Games in Turin, Italy.
Drever's athletic journey continued with the Canadian national field hockey program for eight years (1971-79), serving as team captain for three seasons. Her achievements were so notable that she was featured on a Canadian postage stamp in 1979 following a world championship. After her playing career, she transitioned to coaching, winning a national title in swimming at the University of Alberta before guiding the University of Victoria's field hockey team to its first national championship in 1984.
Celebrating a Historic Milestone
The induction of the 1965–66 men's and women's basketball teams adds a collective dimension to the Hall of Fame class. These teams represent a pivotal era in UCalgary's history, capturing the spirit and competitive drive of the university's early years. Their recognition underscores the importance of teamwork and foundational success in building a lasting athletic culture.
The upcoming Hall of Fame ceremony in February 2026 will be more than just an induction event; it will be a cornerstone of the university's 60th-anniversary celebrations. It serves as a powerful reminder of the rich history from which current and future Dinos athletes draw inspiration. By honouring these pioneers, the University of Calgary not only preserves its past but also reinforces the values of dedication and excellence for generations to come.
