A new endowment fund for incoming student-athletes has been created at Nipissing University.
It’s thanks to a $200,000 donation from the North Bay Youth Soccer Club.
The university says the fund will provide two annual $3,000 awards to deserving first-year students who have been recruited to play varsity soccer for the Nipissing Lakers and have attended a Nipissing district secondary school.
“We are incredibly grateful to the North Bay Youth Soccer Club for their generous contribution,” said Vito Castiglione, Director of Athletics at Nipissing University. “These awards will not only alleviate financial pressures for student-athletes, but will also encourage them to excel in both their studies and their sport. This partnership reflects the strong bond between Nipissing University and the North Bay community.”
The Heather Cluff Award will be presented to a full-time female student, while the Richard Dull Award will recognize a full-time male student, each entering their first year at Nipissing University.
Officials say both awards honour the memory of two pillars of the local soccer community. “We are thrilled to extend our support to young athletes as they embark on their academic and athletic journeys at Nipissing University,” said Sue Knight, President of the North Bay Youth Soccer Club. “This endowment ensures that Heather Cluff and Richard Dull’s legacies will continue to inspire future generations.”
The club says Dull was a fixture in the local soccer scene, not only as an outstanding player but also as a coach, sponsor, and referee.
After a long battle with cancer, Dull passed away in April 2023.
Officials say Heather Cluff was a vibrant 16-year-old player who also served as an assistant coach, was passionate about giving back to her community and had dreams of becoming a doctor.
She was diagnosed with cancer in 1992 and passed away in 1993.
