Wrestling | 2/25/2026 2:00:00 PM
The York University Lions wrestling team is headed to Thunder Bay this week to compete in the 2026 University Championships, hosted by Wrestling Canada Lutte (WCL) in partnership with U SPORTS and Lakehead University. Taking place February 27–28 at the CJ Sanders Fieldhouse, the event will see a young and ambitious Lions squad sending a contingent of eight athletes across eight different weight classes.
This national appearance follows a strong showing at the OUA provincial championship, where the York men's team secured a fifth-place overall finish out of 11 competing schools. Despite their youth, the team has already proven they can compete with the best in the province, highlighted by several podium finishes. Leading the charge is Wesam Sa'ed, who earned a silver medal in the Men's 82kg division, while Andrew Lewis-Garraway (57kg) and Samuel Awonuga (130kg) both secured bronze finishes.
Representing the Lions in Thunder Bay are Mina Stewart (50kg), Andrew Lewis-Garraway (57kg), Purav Patel (60kg), Yahya Akar (65kg), Paramveer Tiwana (76kg), Wesam Sa'ed (83kg), Iman Aliyev (90kg), and Samuel Awonuga (130kg). As this emerging group gains invaluable experience on the national stage, they look to build on their provincial momentum and make their mark against the top university programs in the country.
