College Sports Information Directors of America

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Rising Star Award

Presented annually to College Sports Communicators members in the University Division (NCAA DI) and in the College Division (NCAA DII, DIII, NAIA, Two-year Colleges, Canadian institutions) – with 10 years of service or less whose work at their institution, conference office or intercollegiate athletics-affiliated association and service, dedication, energy and enthusiasm to the profession make that individual a "rising star" in athletics communications. Voted on by the Special Awards Committee.

Lance McKenzie — University of Calgary Communications Manager

“Thank you to College Sports Communicators for this incredible honor. Being recognized by an organization that has been so instrumental in my professional development makes it especially meaningful. This career has shaped my life and given me countless unforgettable experiences and long-lasting relationships. I am grateful to share this moment with the family, friends, colleagues, and mentors who have guided and supported me throughout this journey.” — Lance McKenzie, 2026 CSC Rising Star Award, College Division recipient

Lance McKenzie is in his 10th year working in athletic communications and currently serves as communications manager for the University of Calgary Dinos.

McKenzie returned to his alma mater in 2017 as digital media coordinator before being promoted to communications manager in 2021. Prior to returning to Calgary, he worked as communications and sales manager with the Prince Albert Raiders during the 2015-16 season, followed by a role as communications coordinator with the Canadian Sport Institute Pacific from 2016-17. McKenzie’s career in sport communications began at age 15 with the Victoria Salmon Kings. He later joined the Dinos as a student assistant from 2011-15. Early experience also included roles with Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation and the Victoria Shamrocks of the Western Lacrosse Association.

McKenzie is the first professional from a Canadian institution selected to receive the College Sports Communicators (CSC) Rising Star Award and was named to CSC’s inaugural 30 Under 30 class in 2022. McKenzie earned a bachelor of arts degree from the University of Calgary in 2015 and completed a master’s degree in sports administration at Ohio University in 2022.

Gallery: (3-12-2026) Lance McKenzie, Rising Star Award

Connor Hood, University of Alberta Sports Information & Communications Coordinator, CSC Canadian Institutions Cabinet President: “While on paper the University of Alberta and University of Calgary are fierce rivals, behind the scenes that couldn’t be further from the truth. I have had the pleasure of working alongside Lance since he joined the Dinos Athletics Department in 2017, and he has consistently been the benchmark set for myself and all communicators in the Canada West Conference when it comes to our profession. From digital media and content creation to storytelling, broadcasting and marketing, the Dinos always feel a step ahead, constantly innovating and improving their work. The degree in which they have elevated and promoted their varsity programs and student-athletes is no fluke and is all credited back to the dedication and passion brought to the job by Lance and his staff.”

Jamin Heller, Canada West Universities Athletic Conference Associate Director Communications and Marketing: “As a colleague for the past few seasons, I was so happy to see Lance recognized with a CSC Rising Star Award. It’s a truly well deserved recognition, as Lance represents everything the Rising Star Award is designed to honor. Under his leadership, the University of Calgary Dinos maintain one of the most comprehensive and high-performing communications operations in not only our Canada West conference, but the entire country of Canada. Without a doubt, Lance is the driving force behind that standard. Under his leadership, each Dinos program, big and small, receives the same professional, timely, high-quality coverage. He has an exceptional understanding of what student-athletes and fans want and need. His work is polished, accurate, engaging - and always reliable. His impact also extends far beyond his own campus. Lance is a leader within our Canada West SID community, regularly offering advice, technical assistance, and creative guidance to his SID colleagues across the conference. He is an advocate for raising standards across the board and ensuring that Canada West student-athletes in every sport receive the recognition they deserve. Congratulations on this great honor, Lance!”

Braydon Epp, University of Calgary Director of Development - Kinesiology & Athletics: “Lance McKenzie is a forward-thinking, collaborative, and dedicated athletics communications professional. His passion and leadership has elevated the Dinos brand and strengthened our entire UCalgary community. Lance's talent, work ethic, and commitment to excellence embody what it means to be a true rising star.”

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