Setting the standard: Dinos class of 2026 Hall of Fame inductions
By Leigh Patrick, March 25 2026—
The University of Calgary welcomed several new faces and the 1965-66 basketball teams into the Dinos Hall of Fame on Feb. 5. The evening was a nostalgia trip as the inductees shared their memories and experiences from their time at the university.
The 1965-66 women’s basketball team: a dynasty recognized
Marilyn McNeil, a leader in women’s sports, was inducted into the hall for promoting success and pride in Dinos athletics and women’s sports generally. A member of the 1965-66 women’s basketball team, she helped secure the team’s conference championship. After graduating, she returned to UCalgary and coached there from 1975 to 1979, leading the team to significant improvement.
Spearheading multiple women’s sports programs during her tenure as athletic director at Monmouth University, McNeil has tirelessly advocated for equality in women’s sports.
“There’s been a change. There’s been more respect for the female athlete, but there’s more that can come,” said McNeil.
McNeil and her 1965-66 basketball team received induction honours. The team, the first to win a conference championship, set a standard with eight titles. Hall of Famers Wendy Carson, Theresa Maxwell (Sekura) and McNeil highlighted the importance of strong relationships for success.
“That team was extremely important in my life and helped me understand the joy of competing,” said McNeil, crediting the team with inspiring her to become a coach later in her career.
Individual trailblazers
Ross Collett, a two-time male athlete of the year and 1968 conference all-star, was also inducted. Collett was drafted by the Calgary Stampeders in 1969. Similarly, 1974 male athlete of the year John Jenkins was honoured as the first all-Canadian in men’s hockey history. Jenkins famously declined professional offers to enter the workforce, citing the Dinos program for preparing him for his career.
A multi-sport legacy
Multi-athlete Sandy Drever was also inducted. In 1969, she was named the Dinos Female Athlete of the Year. She led the women’s volleyball team to its first national championship in 1970. That year, she also competed for Canada at the World Student Games in Turin, Italy. Drever, a former captain of Canada’s national field hockey team for three years, appeared on a 1979 postage stamp, which she called “absolutely random and a mistake.” Her legacy continues as she coached swimming at the University of Alberta for three seasons, winning a national title and led the University of Victoria’s field hockey team to multiple national championships.
“Play because you love to play. Keep your friends close. Just do what it takes to be happy,” said Drever, offering words of wisdom to today’s generation of women.
A 60-year legacy
In a full-circle moment, the 1965-66 men’s basketball team entered the Hall of Fame on the 60th anniversary of the university. One of the most successful teams in Dinos history, the team set the standard for the program today, winning nine conference banners in its time. The men joked that they’re “all jocks and always will be” as they reflected on their time since leaving the Dinos.
In 1966, the team brought home its first banner and it was the first time the Dinos hosted the national championship. This honour is about to be repeated in March 2026. Both collectively and individually, that team has left its mark on men’s basketball.
“This particular national tournament is hopefully going to be a real success and the basketball community in Calgary, we can share it with the youngsters, hopefully with UCalgary students and make it fun,” said honorary chair of the tournament and Hall of Fame inductee Wayne Thomas.
Back in 1966, the men achieved the silver medal on their home turf during the tournament, cementing their legacy early in the program’s history. How fitting it is that the team has been inducted into the Hall of Fame in time for the next generation to host the U Sports Final 8 and hopefully create its own legacy.
“Remember that these are fleeting memories, fleeting years. This is your chance, so make the most of it, help each other and have fun,” said Thomas.
It was a heartfelt, full-circle moment for the university, celebrating the rich history that has paved the way for its success today. From the 1965-66 basketball teams to the individual trailblazers, the inductees shared memories of joy and competition, highlighting the true heart of Dinos athletics. As these legends take their place in the Hall of Fame, they leave their sentiments and support for the next generation.