WATERLOO, Ont. - Golden Hawks Hannah Pennell and Nolan Kuhlberg are the Laurier Athletes of the Week, presented by The Hawk Shop. 

Pennell, a fourth-year health sciences major from Kingston, Ont., led the Golden Hawks to a podium finish at the ICU University World Cheerleading Championships in Orlando, Florida.  

She competed on both the Game Day and Premier teams, where head coach Carli Thomas said Pennell made an undeniable impact across the board. Her exceptional showmanship and razor-sharp motions were instrumental in the team's success on Game Day.  

The team was faced with a last-minute injury and the challenge of integrating a new flyer, but Pennell's leadership was on display. Thomas said her composure and decision-making during pyramids were outstanding, and her ability to adapt under pressure played a crucial role. 

The Golden Hawks were one of three Canadian teams in the top 10 of the Premier competition, and brought home their third straight bronze medal. 

Kuhlberg, a second-year biochem/biotech major from Sudbury, Ont., had a great performance for the track and field team at the Don Wright Team Challenge. 

The team's 2024-25 Rookie of the Year came first in the 600m run, smashing the school record in the process and moving up to seventh in the OUA rankings, crossing the line in 1:22.48.  

He also ran the second leg of the 4x400m relay, helping the Golden Hawks place first with a time of 3:23.28.  

Laurier's 4x400m team has been impressive this season with Kuhlberg running the second and anchor legs, placing in the top three in the previous three meets.  

This is the first Laurier Athlete of the Week award for Pennell and second for Kuhlberg.