Lambton College’s Albin Gashi Named 2026 CCAA Torchbearer Presented by FieldTurf

The Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) is proud to announce that Lambton College's Albin Gashi has been selected as a recipient of the 2025-26 CCAA Torchbearer Scholarship, presented by FieldTurf.

A Business Administration student and member of the Lambton Lions men’s basketball team, Gashi has demonstrated exceptional leadership, academic commitment, and community engagement throughout his collegiate career.

Gashi is the founder and leader of Youth Mentorship Through Basketball, an initiative dedicated to using sport as a platform to support and guide young athletes in the Sarnia-Lambton community. Through his work, he has coached in youth development programs, worked with rep teams, led summer camps, and provided individualized training sessions for athletes of all ages and abilities. His efforts have extended beyond the court, including organizing and participating in literacy initiatives such as student-athlete read-aloud events at local elementary schools.

“Basketball is more than a sport,” said Gashi. “It’s an opportunity to teach leadership, teamwork, and accountability. I’ve been fortunate to have mentors who shaped me, and I want to provide that same support to the next generation.”

What began as a focus on skill development quickly evolved into a broader mentorship initiative, with Gashi emphasizing personal growth, academic dedication, and confidence-building among the youth he works with. His impact has been evident, with many participants advancing to competitive programs while also demonstrating improved leadership, communication, and motivation in both sport and academics.

In addition to his community work, Gashi serves as captain of the Lambton Lions men’s basketball team and President of the college’s Student Administrative Council. In both roles, he has earned the respect of peers, coaches, and administrators through his integrity, professionalism, and commitment to representing student voices.

“Albin embodies the qualities this scholarship seeks to recognize: leadership, service, integrity, and citizenship,” said Lambton College President & CEO Rob Kardas. “He understands the responsibility of being a CCAA student-athlete and has embraced it fully through his contributions on campus and in the community.”

Balancing the demands of academics, athletics, and community leadership, Gashi has consistently demonstrated discipline and drive while maintaining a strong commitment to giving back.

The CCAA Torchbearer Scholarship, presented by FieldTurf, recognizes student-athletes who exemplify leadership, community involvement, and a commitment to making a meaningful impact beyond sport.