UPEI Athletics & Recreation

RECRUITED⚽ | Men’s Soccer Panthers welcome fullback ASHTON MERCIER

Mercier joins the Panthers with a strong track record of success, highlighted by capturing the 2021 Ontario Cup and helping his teams finish top of the table on multiple occasions throughout his youth career.

A dynamic player on the flank, Mercier combines attacking instincts with defensive reliability. He excels at creating scoring opportunities from wide areas while remaining disciplined and dependable in transition.

"We're excited to welcome Ashton to our program. He's a hardworking fullback with a tremendous attitude, strong work ethic, and a real commitment to improving. His work rate on and off the ball will strengthen our back line, and we know he'll be a great fit for our group." – Head Coach Mozzi Gyorio

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RECRUITED🏒 | Women's Hockey Panthers welcome poised blueliner SARAH ELSON

Elson is set to join the Panthers for the 2027–28 season, bringing a strong defensive presence from the Oakville Jr. Hornets and The Hill Academy, one of Canada's premier hockey prep programs.

A reliable, high-IQ defender, Elson is known for her strong defensive instincts and physical play. Her consistency and leadership have been recognized at The Hill Academy, where she was named the team's Defensive Player of the Year in back-to-back seasons.

"Sarah is a high-IQ, disciplined defender who makes a great first pass and is tough to play against. She brings a steady presence to our back end, and her calmness, leadership, and team-first attitude make her a perfect fit for our group." – Head Coach Sean Fisher

| | | Oakville Hornets Girls Hockey Association | The Hill Academy

RECRUITED⚽ | Women’s Soccer Panthers secure versatile threat GRACE GALLOWAY

Galloway arrives at UPEI following an impressive youth career with U17 AAA Inter Halifax, where she served as co-captain and helped lead her squad to a Nova Scotia provincial championship and a fourth-place finish at the 2025 Canada Soccer National Championships.

She has continued her development through the Halifax Tides FC Academy and gained valuable experience at the 2026 Vancouver Whitecaps Showcase, competing against some of the top young talent in the country.

A fast, athletic, and versatile player, Galloway can impact the game in both attacking and defensive roles. Her work rate, ability to connect passes, and knack for creating scoring opportunities make her a valuable addition to the Panthers' lineup.

"We're thrilled to announce Grace's commitment to our program. Grace brings an incredible work ethic, elite versatility, and explosive speed to our squad, and we're excited to see the impact she'll have." – Head Coach János Barna

| | | Halifax CITY Soccer Club

Last year, they broke through.

This year, the hunt for a title continues.

After reaching the AUS semifinals for the first time since 2018-19, the Men's Hockey Panthers are back this fall with their eyes set on more.

New season. Same edge. Bigger goals.

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Last season turned heads.

This season, the Panthers are coming for more.🏒

The 2026-27 AUS Women’s Hockey schedule is here, and UPEI opens the hunt Oct. 14 at home against Mount Allison.

Circle the dates. Pack the Mac. The next chapter starts soon.

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RECRUITED⚽ | Women’s Soccer Panthers add composed defender ABIGAIL WAITE

Waite joins the Panthers following a successful youth career that included a New Brunswick Provincial Championship and a sixth-place finish at Nationals. A respected leader on and off the pitch, she also served as captain of her Fredericton High School squad, helping set the tone through her work ethic and team-first mentality.

A composed and competitive defender, Waite brings strong communication, leadership, and a calm presence under pressure. She reads the game well, competes relentlessly, and consistently puts the team first, while continuing to push herself to improve both on and off the field.

"Abby is an aggressive defender who challenges for every ball. With her wide range of passing, she has the ability to break lines with accurate short passes or hit dangerous diagonal balls over the top that catch opposing defenders off guard. We’re looking forward to adding her skillset to the team.” – Head Coach János Barna

| | | Fredericton District Soccer Association

RECRUITED⚽ | Men’s Soccer Panthers welcome experienced midfield talent BROCK AHMET

Ahmet arrives at UPEI with a strong background in high-level Ontario soccer, having competed in the Ontario Premier League with Guelph United, Sigma FC, and Hamilton United. He also captured a League1 Ontario U20 championship and gained valuable university experience competing for Wilfrid Laurier University.

A technical left-footed midfielder, Ahmet plays with composure and intelligence on the ball. Known for his strong vision and ability to dictate tempo, he excels at linking play through the midfield while creating opportunities up front. His experience and creativity add another dynamic layer to the Panthers’ midfield group.

"We’re excited to add Brock to our roster. He’s a technical, left-footed midfielder who brings experience, quality, and creativity to our group. His composure on the ball and ability to impact the attack will make him a great addition to the program.” – Head Coach Mozzi Gyorio

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The chase starts here.🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️

The 2026 AUS Cross Country schedule is set, and the Panthers are ready to hit the course.

The Panthers kick things off at home with the UPEI Invitational on Sept. 19, then hit the road for stops at Acadia and Moncton before closing the AUS season at STFX for the conference championships on Oct. 31.

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They don’t come much more deserving than Grace Lancaster.

Last week at Convocation, Grace was named this year’s recipient of the Rory Beck Outstanding Academic and Athletic Leadership Award, an honour presented to the graduating student who best represents excellence in athletics, academics, leadership, and campus spirit.

For five years, Grace poured everything she had into UPEI Women’s Basketball—and her final season was the perfect reflection of that commitment.

Stepping into a major leadership role, Lancaster helped guide the Panthers to a 13-7 regular season record and a return trip to the AUS final. She led the team in scoring with 15.2 points per game, while adding 2.6 rebounds, 2.1 steals, and 1.9 assists, earning AUS all-star honours for the first time in her career.

She was also recognized as the W.A. Ledwell Award recipient at this year’s Panther Celebration, putting the finishing touch on a remarkable career defined by work ethic, growth, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the green and white.

Congratulations, Grace, and best of luck in your next chapter!💚

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