Trent Excalibur Student-Athletes Honoured with 2025-26 Bonnie M. Patterson Award
Dual-sport standout, and men's volleyball veteran recognized for excellence in academics, athletics, and leadership
Two Trent Excalibur student-athletes who have distinguished themselves in competition, the classroom, and the community are being recognized with the 2025-26 Bonnie M. Patterson Award. '
Natalie Fournier, a dual-sport athlete in women's volleyball and lacrosse, and Aly Saydam, a veteran setter on the men's volleyball team, have each received the $2,500 award, which recognizes returning student-athletes who demonstrate leadership, academic achievement, and excellence in varsity sport.
Named in honour of former Trent president and vice-chancellor Bonnie M. Patterson (1998–2009), the award celebrates student-athletes who reflect the values of commitment, teamwork, and community contribution.
Natalie Fournier, Women's Volleyball & Women's Lacrosse
Psychology student Natalie Fournier (Georgetown, ON.) has distinguished herself as one of Trent's most accomplished dual-sport student-athletes, excelling at the varsity level in both volleyball and lacrosse while maintaining strong academic standing.
A program leader and offensive force for the Excalibur women's volleyball team, Fournier (Gzowski College) cemented her place in the record books this season, becoming the program's all-time leader in both kills (542) and points (646). In 2025-26 alone, the outside hitter recorded 126 kills, 151 points, 95 digs, 36 assists, eight blocks, and 17 service aces, continuing to drive the team's success with her dynamic and consistent play.
Her impact extends beyond the volleyball court too, as a midfielder/defender with the women's lacrosse team, Fournier played a key role in securing the 2025 OUA Championship, the program's fourth championship title, and was recognized as an OUA All-Star, highlighting her versatility and ability to excel across two varsity sports in different seasons.
Off the field of play, Fournier is equally committed to serving her community. During the summer of 2025, she volunteered with Compass Community Services, supporting their Tele-Connect program, a phone outreach service that provides social connection and medication reminders for individuals navigating mental health challenges. She also gives back to the next generation of athletes by running youth secondary school clinics in both volleyball and lacrosse, and volunteering at Trent-hosted high school tournaments for both programs.
Aly Saydam, Men's Volleyball
Aly Saydam (Ottawa, ON.), a fourth-year Kinesiology student, has been the steady hand guiding the Excalibur men's volleyball program from the setter position while maintaining his academic standing on the honour roll and a renewable scholarship, earning him the title of OUA Academic All-Canadian.
During the 2025-26 season, Aly recorded 405 assists, orchestrating the offence with poise and precision. He added 79 digs, 28 kills, 15 blocks, seven aces, and 46 points, showcasing his well-rounded skillset and willingness to contribute in every facet of the game.
Saydam is also a member of the team's Leadership Group, fostering a positive culture within the program. He also served as Tournament Convenor for Trent's Boys High School Volleyball Tournament, helping deliver opportunities for young athletes to compete at the university level.
In addition to his contribution to the volleyball community, Saydam is a Gzowski College ambassador, helping students navigate campus life and supporting college programming and events. He is also an active member of the 1EX Council and the Trent Kinesiology Society, serving as the fourth-year representative. This year, he volunteered for the East vs. West Charity Hockey Game, contributing to one of Trent's long-standing campus fundraising initiatives through the Colleges.
Off campus, Saydam has extended his passion for kinesiology and community health through a placement with On the Move, a Peterborough-based program that offers community exercise classes for individuals living with Parkinson's disease throughout the Kawartha region.
Through both of their efforts in community service, mentorship, and academic dedication, Fournier and Saydam exemplify the values celebrated by the Bonnie M. Patterson Award.