VICTORIA – U SPORTS released its 2022 major award winners in Victoria at the U SPORTS Rugby National Championships.

Fifth year prop/hooker Karlee Durfey has been recognized for her outstanding contribution on the pitch, achievement in the classroom and in civic involvement, winning the 2022 U SPORTS women's rugby community service award. 

Durfey has created her own non-profit organization (Bo Smith and Co.) for children battling cancer and organized a charity rugby game that brought in thousands to help these struggling families - an event that she has committed to continue beyond her time with the Pronghorns. 

STUDENT-ATHLETE COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD: Karlee Durfey

• Lethbridge Pronghorns
• Fifth-year
• Prop/Hooker
• Cardston, Alta.
• Arts 

The Arts student also volunteers at the local food bank every week, volunteers with the Sage Clan, giving out lunches, water, clothing and naloxone to those in need. She's a Big Sister and a mentor to youth, as well as a rugby coach at Raymond High School.

Head Coach Graeme Moffatt, "Karlee's example of student leadership and community service is amazing. We're happy that she has been recognized on the national stage as she deserves it. We hope her example inspires others to be key figures in their communities."

Athletics Manager, Spencer Pommells added, "Through her leadership in raising money and awareness for childhood cancer with her not-for-profit company Bo Smith & Co, and volunteering with the Lethbridge Food Bank, Big Brothers & Big Sisters, and the Sage Clan, Karlee has raised the bar for all Pronghorn student athletes and staff. As a department we put a significant emphasis on community and leadership within southern Alberta, and Karlee is a shining light for these values that we could not be prouder of."