An athlete must accumulate the required number of points under the varsity award system to receive this award. This award is usually acquired after two years participation on a varsity team. Plaque Award A 'Plaque' is presented to varsity athletes who have earned their 'M' Award and have accumulated the required number of points. This award is usually acquired after four years participation on a varsity team. The following six awards are the most prestigious awards given to athletes.
Coaches recommend names of students who meet the criteria and are most worthy to receive an award.
A special selection committee for each award then determines each year's recipients. The inception year of the Athlete of the Year Award was 1984-85. This award has been conceived and implemented into the awards system to recognize the athlete who has distinguished herself to the highest level of performance while representing McMaster University in Intercollegiate competition. The criteria requires the candidate to have demonstrated superior athletic performance while representing McMaster. The candidate may be in any year of university.