Vince Amato named 2026 CCAA Athletic Director of the Year
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The Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) is proud to announce that Vince Amato of Champlain College Saint-Lambert has been named the 2026 CCAA Athletic Director of the Year. Presented annually, the award recognizes an athletic director who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, commitment to student-athlete success, service to collegiate athletics, and significant contributions at the institutional, conference, and national levels. This year's recipient has exemplified those qualities throughout an outstanding career spanning 18 years as an athletic director. Known for his unwavering dedication to student-athletes, coaches, and the broader collegiate athletics community, Amato has established himself as one of the most respected leaders in Canadian collegiate sport. At Champlain College Saint-Lambert, Amato is recognized for his hands-on leadership style and tireless commitment to supporting student-athletes. Whether overseeing major events, assisting coaches, or responding to the needs of students, he consistently puts the student-athlete experience first. His willingness to go above and beyond, regardless of the time or circumstance, has helped foster a supportive environment where student-athletes can thrive both academically and athletically. Amato's impact was particularly evident during the hosting of the 2025 CCAA Men's Soccer National Championship. Serving as a key leader throughout the planning and execution of the event, he played an instrumental role in securing sponsorships, coordinating operations, and mentoring student volunteers. Throughout championship week, he was a constant presence on-site, helping ensure a first-class experience for athletes, coaches, officials, and visitors while showcasing Champlain College Saint-Lambert on the national stage. Amato is known for building strong relationships with coaches and empowering them to succeed by ensuring they have the resources and support necessary to develop their programs. That collaborative approach has helped create a culture that emphasizes teamwork, excellence, and a strong sense of community throughout the athletics department. At the national level, Amato currently serves as President of the CCAA, providing leadership and guidance to collegiate athletics across Canada. Through his work with the association, he has been a strong advocate for student-athletes and member institutions while helping shape the future of the CCAA. His contributions at the conference and national levels have earned him the respect of colleagues from coast to coast. Through nearly two decades of dedicated service, Vince Amato has demonstrated the leadership, vision, and commitment that define excellence in collegiate athletics administration. His impact on student-athletes, coaches, volunteers, and the broader athletics community continues to be felt both within his institution and across the country. The 2026 CCAA Athletic Director of the Year Award was presented during the CCAA Annual General Meeting and Hall of Fame Gala on June 16 at Collège Montmorency in Laval, Quebec. |
