The McMaster University community was dealt a heavy blow last week with the sudden passing of former Marauder wrestler and stand-out student, Jason Buckle.
 
"Jason was more than just a dominant wrestler; he went above and beyond in everything he did," said Mark Alfano, Associate Director, Athletics. "From high school, to his five years as a Marauder, Jason was the first to lend a hand, and do everything he could to help others. This is a devastating loss for our community, and on behalf of the Marauder family we extend our deepest condolences to Jason, and his family."
 
A local graduate of St. Jean de Brebeuf Catholic Secondary School, Jason hit the ground running in his first year with the Marauders, capturing OUA gold in the 57kg category, as well as CIS silver, earning him OUA & CIS Rookie of the year honours. His first season was capped off with the Mel & Marilyn Hawkrigg Award, as he earned Male Rookie of the Year honours at the McMaster Athletic Awards ceremony in 2012.
 
Jason went on to repeat as an OUA gold medalist in his next four seasons, all in the 61kg category, helping the Marauders capture their fifth OUA banner in program history in 2015. That season, he was named the OUA Most Outstanding Male Wrestler, while former Head Coach Nick Cipriano earned his sixth OUA Coach of the Year honour.
 
"Jason was one of my all-time favourite athletes; a once in a lifetime privilege to cross paths with someone so wholesome," said Cipriano. "[Jason] wasn't only extremely skilled and talented, but a genuine, non-pretentious, good person who would do anything for his teammates and friends. He had time for every person in the wrestling room regardless of their skill level and would often work with the least skilled to help them improve.  He was respected by everyone and he respected everyone. I will miss him so much." 
 
Throughout the McMaster athletics department, and community, this testament holds strong. Jason has been credited as an unwavering leader - he never hesitated to offer his support in any endeavor, especially in representation of his wrestling team.
 
Jason's wrestling career is noted as one of the most successful of any OUA wrestler. In five years he captured five OUA gold medals, as well as three silver and one bronze on the national stage. Jason went on to be named the OUA Most Outstanding Male Wrestler on three occasions – one of only two wrestlers to accomplish this feat.
 
Current head coach, and a close and competitive teammate of Jason's, Ahmed Shamiya, continued the legacy of capturing the prestigious OUA award the year after Jason graduated.
 
"I can't even describe in words how big of an impact Jason Buckle has had on his community and loved ones," said Shamiya. "Despite his numerous accolades and fierce competitiveness, Jason always made it a point to support and uplift others with a smile on his face – his positivity was contagious." 
 
"The first time I met Jason was at a wrestling tournament when I was 14; I remember him absolutely dominating everyone. I was in awe. A few weeks later, I had the opportunity to attend a wrestling camp with him, and I was the most excited teenager on the planet. I specifically remember being surprised by how humble, kind, and supportive he was despite the beating I got from him on the mats. He truly inspired me to be better and has made a deeply meaningful impact on my life. I can confidently say that this is the case for countless others as well. We will never forget Jason simply because the difference he has made in our lives remains timeless."
 
Jason graduated from McMaster in 2016 with a degree in Kinesiology, and went on to earn a teaching degree from the University of Ottawa.
 
The Buckle family requests that those who wish to do so, consider making a donation to the McMaster Wrestling program in Jason's name.