Niagara River Lions President Michelle Biskup Honored as St. Catharines Sportsperson of the Year
St. Catharines, ON – Michelle Biskup, President of the Niagara River Lions, has been named the 2025 St. Catharines Sportsperson of the Year, a prestigious recognition of her contributions to both sport and the community. The announcement, made on March 6, 2026, celebrates Biskup’s decade-long commitment to the River Lions and her leadership in fostering growth within the Niagara Region’s sporting landscape. A formal ceremony honoring Biskup will be held on Monday, March 9th, at St. Catharines city hall.
The Sportsperson of the Year Award, presented annually by the City of St. Catharines, acknowledges individuals demonstrating exceptional leadership, achievement, and service in sport, alongside a positive impact on the local community. It’s a distinction that goes beyond on-field success, recognizing sustained dedication to the development of sport at all levels. This year’s selection is particularly noteworthy, as it marks a historic moment for the city, with both the Sportsperson of the Year and Athlete of the Year awards being presented to women – Madalyn Weinert receiving the Athlete of the Year honor.
A Decade of Leadership with the River Lions
Biskup’s journey with the River Lions began a decade ago, during the franchise’s time in the National Basketball League of Canada (NBL). She remained with the organization through its transition to the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) in 2019, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to the team’s success. Her dedication culminated in her appointment as President in late 2024, following four years as Vice President.
Under Biskup’s guidance, the River Lions have achieved significant success, including back-to-back championships in 2024 and 2025. Her leadership has been instrumental in establishing the team as a cornerstone of professional sport in the Niagara Region, overseeing business operations, strengthening community partnerships, and cultivating a strong team culture. The River Lions, one of the founding franchises of the CEBL, compete at the Meridian Centre in downtown St. Catharines, representing the twelve municipalities of the Niagara Region.
“Being named Sportsperson of the Year is an incredible honor,” Biskup said in a statement. “It’s a reflection of the hard work, dedication, and support from our team, fans, and community. I hope this recognition inspires others to chase their goals, push their limits, and make a positive impact both on and off the court.”
Part of a Growing Legacy of Leadership
Biskup isn’t the first from the River Lions organization to receive this prestigious award. Head Coach and General Manager Victor Raso was honored as the St. Catharines Sportsperson of the Year in 2024, and River Lions owner Richard Petko received the award in 2016. This consistent recognition underscores the organization’s significant and ongoing impact within the local sports community. It speaks to a sustained commitment to excellence, not just in basketball, but in community engagement and leadership.
The River Lions’ success extends beyond the court. The team actively works to unite fans through a shared passion for the game and a sense of regional pride. Competing from May to August each season, the River Lions have built a reputation for championship-caliber performance and a dedication to making a positive difference in the Niagara Region.
This award for Biskup also highlights a broader trend: the growing influence and leadership of women in sports. The fact that both the Sportsperson of the Year and Athlete of the Year awards were given to women in St. Catharines this year is a powerful statement about the changing landscape of athletics and the increasing opportunities for women to excel in all aspects of the sporting world.
What’s Next for the River Lions?
With the 2026 CEBL season on the horizon, the Niagara River Lions, under Biskup’s continued leadership, are poised to build on their recent successes. The team will undoubtedly appear to defend their championship titles and further solidify their position as a leading force in Canadian professional basketball. Fans can expect continued community engagement and a commitment to providing an exciting and accessible sporting experience for all.
The River Lions’ next steps will be closely watched by basketball fans across the Niagara Region and beyond. For the latest updates, schedules, and news, visit the official River Lions website: riverlions.ca.
