Four Student-Athletes Receive 2026 Algoma Steel Scholarship Awards

The Sault College Athletics Department has announced the recipients of the 2026 Algoma Steel Scholarship Awards.

 

Established through a partnership between Algoma Steel and the Sault College Cougars, the program provides four full scholarships annually to student-athletes who demonstrate excellence in both competition and the classroom. The initiative aims to support student-athletes as they pursue their academic goals while representing Sault Ste. Marie and Sault College in provincial and national competitions.

 

This year's scholarship recipients are Darby Sewell (Women's Volleyball), Liz Gavey (Women's Volleyball), Ashton Sawchyn (Football), and Erron Beachey (Football).

 

Sewell was one of the key contributors to the Cougars women's volleyball team's return to OCAA competition last season. In 16 matches, the left-side hitter led the team with 147 points and 121 kills. She is currently enrolled in the General Arts and Science program.

 

"Receiving this scholarship from Algoma Steel is much more than financial support. As a student-athlete, balancing academics, sports, and other responsibilities can be challenging, and this scholarship helps ease some of this burden. Beyond the financial assistance, this scholarship represents encouragement from my community and recognition of the hard work I've put into my studies, sports, and personal growth. I am inspired to continue working toward my goals while giving back to the community that has supported me", said Darby.

 

Fellow volleyball standout Liz Gavey also enjoyed an impressive season. The outside hitter recorded 107 points and 95 kills while serving as one of the team's leaders on and off the court. Her outstanding combination of athletic achievement, academic excellence, and leadership earned her the prestigious G.R. Hodgson Award at this year's Athletics Awards Banquet. Gavey is enrolled in the Police Foundations program.

 

The remaining scholarship recipients come from the Cougars football team. Defensive end Ashton Sawchyn and wide receiver Erron Beachey were both members of the squad that advanced to the Ontario Conference playoffs of the Canadian Junior Football League (CJFL) last season.

 

Sawchyn, a Police Foundations student, saw limited action during the 2025 campaign, appearing in one regular-season game against the London Beefeaters. Despite limited playing time, his commitment, work ethic, and contributions to the program have made him a valued member of the team.

 

Beachey appeared in seven games, including the playoffs, recording 18 receptions for 228 yards and three touchdowns. His dedication to the program was recognized with the Cougar Pride Award. He is currently enrolled in the Sports Administration program.

 

"Receiving the Algoma Steel Scholarship is a huge honour. It helps reduce some of the financial pressure of pursuing my education and, with that, allows me to stay focused on my studies as well as athletics. I'm really grateful for the support and recognition", explained Erron.

 

According to Sault College Director of Athletics and Student Engagement Paul Orazietti, the partnership with Algoma Steel continues to play a vital role in the success and growth of the Cougars athletic program.

 

"We are fortunate to have such an amazing community partner like Algoma Steel that is so heavily invested in the future of our athletes, our college, and our community at large. These second-year scholarships represent $10,000 worth of funding to help support our student-athletes at Sault College, with a combined total of more than $50,000 throughout the sponsorship agreement," said Orazietti.

 

"We credit Algoma Steel with many of the successes we've had on the field, in the gym, and on the ice over the past two seasons, and we can only express our deepest gratitude," he added.

 

"At Algoma Steel, we know that strong communities are built by investing in local youth and creating opportunities for them to learn, grow, and build their careers here in Sault Ste. Marie," said Rajat Marwah, Chief Executive Officer of Algoma Steel.

 

"These scholarships recognize the hard work and dedication of local student-athletes while helping them pursue their education close to home. Through our title sponsorship of Sault College Athletics, we are proud to support students who are developing the skills, leadership, and determination that will strengthen our community for years to come. Congratulations to this year's recipients, and we look forward to seeing all they accomplish. Go Cougars!", added Marwah.

 

As Sault Ste. Marie's largest employer and a proud corporate citizen, Algoma Steel remains deeply committed to supporting the local community and helping it thrive. Today, 99 percent of the company's workforce comes from the region.

 

Over the years, Algoma Steel has partnered with numerous local organizations, including Sault College, to support initiatives that create opportunities for students and strengthen the community. Scholarship partnerships such as this one reflect the company's ongoing investment in the next generation of leaders.

 

For more than a century, Algoma Steel has supplied steel products to industries including automotive, construction, energy, and defence. Today, operating from its headquarters in Sault Ste. Marie, the company produces steel using Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) technology, delivering low-carbon Canadian steel that helps build a stronger and more sustainable future.

 

Algoma Steel is one of nearly 30 community partners that support the Sault College Cougars athletic program.