MONTREAL, Que. - Laurier Golden Hawks fly half Jack Gore has capped a standout debut campaign by being named the Canadian University Men's Rugby Championship's 2025 Rookie of the Year, presented by the Rugby ABC Podcast.

The first-year communications studies major from Mississauga, Ont., became the first Golden Hawk to earn the national honour and adds it to an already historic season. Earlier this month, Gore became just the second Golden Hawk to be named the OUA's rookie of the year, with the other being Nathan Jutronich in 2018.

Gore's impact at Laurier was immediate. Slotting in as the starting fly half, he finished tied for second in the OUA with six tries and led the conference in both conversions (29) and total points (86), spurring the Golden Hawks to its first undefeated regular season in program history and a first-place finish.

Laurier head coach Phil Murphy said Gore's rapid rise is a product of years of preparation and an approach that belies his age.

"This recognition is a huge testament to the work that he put in, not only during the season, but before arriving at Laurier to put himself in that position of vying for the 10 jersey even before stepping on the field," Murphy said. "This young man has the work ethic and determination of a player much senior, and I expect great things for Jack, both on and off the field."

Gore said the national honour reflects the effort and support surrounding him throughout his first university campaign.

"It was an honour to receive this award. I wouldn't have been able to do this without the support of my coaches and teammates pushing me to be better every day," he said. "I can't wait to be back next year and compete again."