VIU's Kai Leighton named CCAA Torchbearer Scholarship recipient, presented by FieldTurf
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The Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) is proud to announce that Vancouver Island University student-athlete Kai Leighton has been selected as a recipient of the 2025-26 CCAA Torchbearer Scholarship, presented by FieldTurf. A Bachelor of Arts student and member of the VIU Mariners men’s basketball team, Leighton has demonstrated exceptional leadership, consistency, and a deep commitment to community engagement throughout his collegiate career.
“I’ve always wanted to use my platform as a student-athlete to give back and make a positive impact,” said Leighton. “It’s about building relationships and creating opportunities for others to feel included, supported, and valued.” His impact has been felt across the community, from youth participants gaining access to recreational opportunities to Special Olympics athletes developing both their skills and self-confidence in a supportive environment. Through consistent involvement and mentorship, Leighton has helped foster a sense of belonging while strengthening connections between sport and community. In addition to his community work, Leighton has served as captain of the VIU Mariners men’s basketball team, where he leads by example both on and off the court while maintaining strong academic standing. “Kai’s commitment to community betterment is evident in everything he does,” said VIU Mariners head coach Matt Kuzminski. “He leads with integrity, invests his time selflessly in others, and consistently demonstrates the values we strive to uphold as student-athletes.” Through his leadership and service, Leighton has created meaningful and lasting impact, demonstrating how sport can be a powerful vehicle for inclusion, mentorship, and community connection. The CCAA Torchbearer Scholarship, presented by FieldTurf, recognizes student-athletes who demonstrate excellence in leadership, community involvement, and a commitment to making a meaningful impact beyond sport.
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Leighton has been a dedicated leader in multiple community initiatives, including his work with Kw’umut Lelum Child and Family Services and Special Olympics Basketball Nanaimo. Through these roles, he has organized and led recreational programming for youth across Vancouver Island and volunteered as a basketball coach, supporting athletes with intellectual disabilities through weekly training sessions focused on skill development, teamwork, and confidence-building.
