MCAC announces fifth-annual True Sport basketball team
The MCAC is proud to announce six student-athletes as the fifth-annual True Sport team for the 2025-26 basketball season.
The True Sport team recognizes individuals who demonstrate the principles of True Sport on the court, in the classroom and in the community.
2025-26 basketball True Sport team:
Caleb Kinden — PUC men
Tristan Gibbons — USB men
Braeden Fernandez — CMU men
Briana Buchan — PUC women
Stefani Skurteska — USB women
Hannah Grobb — CMU women
Here's what their coaches had to say:
Caleb Kinden — "Caleb plays with a lot of joy and passion. Every day, he shows up and brings his best to the team and our program. Always smiling, he shows respect for everybody, brings people together and shows gratitude for being a Pilot." — Pierre Dubreuil
Tristan Gibbons — "Tristan Gibbons consistently leads our team in 'GEMs' (Good Energy Mentions) during practices and games. GEMs are our team's measure of positive impact and are foundational to building a strong, winning culture. Whether through high fives, words of encouragement, clapping, or cheering on others, Tristan embodies what it means to be a true teammate. His positive energy, leadership, and commitment to uplifting those around him reflect the core values of the True Sport principles." — Michael Francisco
Braeden Fernandez — "Braeden has been a central figure in the culture of our team. He is a strong example of humility and always thinks of his teammates on and off the court." — Scott Martin
Briana Buchan — "Briana embodies True Sport in everything she does. She brings tons of enthusiasm, plays with integrity, lifts up her teammates around her, and finds joy in the little moments. Her effort on the court, commitment to excellence in the classroom, and genuine care for her teammates make her a leader who elevates everyone she's around." — Kendall Perpall
Stefani Skurteska — "Stefani Skurteska has been a cornerstone of our program since 2023, embodying what it truly means to put the team first. From day one, she embraced every challenge with resilience, toughness, and unwavering commitment. Stef competes with relentless effort — diving for loose balls, taking charges, and sacrificing her body for the success of the group. Beyond her impact on the court, she has been a steady, dependable presence in our locker room and a role model for our younger players. Stef's selflessness, perseverance, and character reflect the very best of the True Sport principles, and we are incredibly proud of the legacy she leaves behind." – Harold Memita
Hannah Grobb — "Hannah embodies the True Sport ethos. Throughout her time at CMU, she has been one of the most committed women's basketball players, coming to every practice, game, tournament, team event, and training session despite the far distance she travels, to make sure that both she and her teammates improve every day. She is always respectful of her coaches, supportive of her teammates, and is one of the most modest people I know. She has a good sense of humour and is willing to laugh at herself or make a joke to diffuse any tensions. I always know I can count on Hannah to be there for the team, no matter how early or late or far, with no excuses and a willingness to work as hard as she can." — Sharlene Harding
The True Sport selection process is based on seven principles:
1. Go For It – Rise to the challenge - always strive for excellence. Be persistent and discover how good you can be.
2. Play Fair – Understand, respect, and follow the rules. Play with integrity - competition is only meaningful when it is fair.
3. Respect Others – Show respect for everyone involved in creating your sporting experience, both on and off the field of play. Win with dignity and lose with grace.
4. Keep It Fun – Find the joy in sport and share it with others. Remember what you love about sport and why you play.
5. Stay Healthy – Always respect and care for your mind and body. Advocate for the health and safety of yourself and those around you.
6. Include Everyone – Recognize and celebrate strength in diversity. Invite and welcome others into sport.
7. Give Back – Say thanks and show gratitude. Encourage your sport group to make a difference in the community.
The MCAC will announce its basketball coaches of the year on Friday.