Shah Named CCAA Women’s Badminton Player of the Year

Ritu Shah of the UKC Blue Devils is the 2026 Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) Women’s Badminton Player of the Year. Shah received the prestigious honour during the 2026 CCAA Badminton National Championships banquet, hosted by the University of New Brunswick Saint John, on March 4th, 2026.

“Ritu’s impact on the CCAA extends far beyond her statistics,” said Bob Murray, CCAA VP Marketing and Awards. “She embodies the brand of a true student-athlete, pairing world-class talent with a commitment to community leadership. It is an honour to recognise an individual who represents our association with such grace and professionalism.”

In her fourth year of eligibility, Shah continued an unprecedented run of success. This season, she maintained a perfect 11-0 record in Women’s Singles, with no opponent managing to score more than 8 points against her in a single set. She also posted a stellar 10-1 record in Women’s Doubles, leading the Blue Devils to their fifth ACAA Championship in six years.

Her resume is among the most decorated in CCAA history. In addition to representing Team Canada at the FISU World University Games, Shah’s collegiate career features three consecutive CCAA Women’s Singles Gold Medals (2023–2025) and four ACAA Player of the Year titles. This 2026 selection marks the second time she has been named the CCAA National Player of the Year, having first received the distinction in 2023.

At the University of King’s College, Shah has redefined the term student-athlete. A consistent fixture on the Dalhousie Dean’s List and the King’s President’s List, she is currently completing an Honours project in Neuroscience studying neurogenesis and aging. Her academic leadership extends to serving as a Teaching Assistant for Systems Neuroscience and volunteering as a patient for medical students to practise clinical skills. Beyond the classroom, Shah serves on the Cobequid Community Health Board and is developing a summer ESL programme for newcomer students with Halifax Public Libraries.

“Over the past four years, Ritu has set the standard for excellence in our programme, capturing both the ACAA and CCAA women’s singles titles each year,” said Aidan Badcock-Parks, head coach of the UKC Blue Devils. “What truly sets her apart, however, is her intelligence, discipline, and unwavering work ethic. She is an exceptional student-athlete and an even more exceptional person, and I cannot speak highly enough of her. Ritu leaves a legacy defined not only by championships, but of integrity and character.”

Shah’s impact is also felt by the next generation of players through her work as a coach for the Junior Badminton Training Centre, where she mentors athletes ranging from ages 9 to 16. On the court, she remains known for a calm, composed demeanour and a deep respect for officials and opponents alike.

CCAA Player of the Year winners receive a customized ring provided by Jostens Canada, the Official Ring Supplier of the CCAA National Championship banquet.

2026 CCAA Women's Badminton All-Canadians

Melissa Roque

Shruti Joshi

Ritu Shah