Message from the Director
Welcome to Ridgeback Country— One Pack. One Purpose.
It is my pleasure to welcome you to Ontario Tech University and the home of our Ridgebacks teams and recreation programs. As a department grounded in our mission to prepare student-athletes to perform under pressure and lead with purpose, we are proud to offer a high-performance environment for varsity athletes where sport, academics, and personal growth are fully integrated. At Ontario Tech, the athlete experience is our core focus. Our goal is to foster a culture of quality where discipline and accountability are the standard. Every Ridgeback is part of a team that competes with heart, holds themselves and each other to a high standard, and thrives under pressure. Together, we work every day to live out our values:
- Accountability – Owning our actions on and off the field.
- Discipline – Showing up with purpose and consistency.
- Resilient Mindsets – Turning challenge into opportunity.
- Respect – Competing with integrity and humility.
Our Ridgebacks community is built on these values, and our commitment extends beyond competition. From our top-tier coaching staff to our dedicated athletics team and supportive faculty, we believe in developing champions in sport, academics, and life.
Our facilities reflect this commitment to excellence and are open to support the well-being, growth, and engagement of all students. Whether you're looking to train, play, or simply stay active and connected on campus, our spaces are designed to help you thrive. Ontario Tech boasts: five multipurpose gymnasiums, a 10,000 sq. ft. fitness centre, a 200m indoor track, a twin-pad ice facility, an on-campus outdoor soccer and softball fields and a dedicated bubbled fieldhouse. From drop-in recreation, intramural leagues, and group fitness classes to open gym and student wellness initiatives, these facilities support daily participation, physical activity, and community engagement for all Ridgebacks. We encourage every student to find ways to get involved. Whether you're chasing your next personal best, trying a new sport, or simply connecting with others. Your Ontario Tech experience is what you make it and there's a place for everyone here.
Since joining the OUA, the Ridgebacks have quickly built a reputation fostering competitive programs provincially and nationally. Our student-athletes continue to raise the bar, not only in their sport but in the classroom and the community. We are proud of the winning mentality and leadership mindset that defines our teams. Ontario Tech offers innovative academic programs that are industry-driven and forward-looking, preparing our graduates to thrive in their chosen careers. When you combine that with the Ridgeback experience, you're set up for lasting success.
If you're a high school student-athlete, I encourage you to explore the opportunities available to you and connect with our staff and coaches if you see something that interests you. Through your research you will quickly see what it means to be part of One Pack. One Purpose. If you've already chosen Ontario Tech, welcome to the family, I look forward to meeting you soon.
Together, let's raise the standard.
Go Ridgebacks!
Audra Sherman
Director of Athletics
Ontario Tech University
