The Red Deer Polytechnic Kings and Queens athletics program is officially one of the top in Canada.
At the recent Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) 50th anniversary gala, RDP was ranked the third-most successful program over the past five decades.
Only Humber College and Mount Royal University, who are now a part of USports, ranked higher out of approximately 100 schools over the last 50 years.
“We are very honoured to be recognized as one of the top-performing athletics programs in the country. Our third-place ranking is a testament to the legacy that was established by previous student-athletes, coaches, and athletics staff,” said Randy Stewart, manager of athletics and student life in a media release.
“The current student-athletes work hard to continue this tradition as they strive for excellence in the classroom, communities, and during competition.”
Fellow Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference member schools the NAIT Ooks (fifth) and SAIT Trojans (ninth) also joined Red Deer in the top 10.
Over the past 50 years, the Kings and Queens have won 25 CCAA national gold medals, and 199 ACAC team and individual titles. The Kings volleyball program won 13 national gold medals, which is the most in CCAA men's volleyball history.
The CCAA also ranked the top 10 programs in 11 different sports over the past 50 years. RDP placed 10th in golf, despite losing the team five years ago. They also placed fifth in cross-country-running, fourth in women's volleyball, second in men's volleyball, fourth in curling, and second in men's hockey.
RDP Athletics have also devoted many hours within the community as coaches, youth mentors and volunteers. Since the Kings and Queens were introduced in 1964 thye've been supported by communities in different ways.
“While we have dedicated and talented individuals within RDP Athletics, our program’s success has also been fueled by the tremendous support from sponsors, donors, fans, and members of our communities,” Stewart added.
“We look forward to welcoming fans back for the 2024/2025 season.”