Joey Slattery recognized as 2026 Fred “Gus” Collins Media Award recipient

April 29, 2026 – Building a reputation as the go-to source for basketball coverage across Manitoba, Joey Slattery has become a consistent and trusted voice for university sport in the province.

For his ongoing contributions, Slattery has been selected as the 2026 recipient of the Fred “Gus” Collins Media Award, presented annually to a media member who demonstrates outstanding dedication to covering Canada West programs and athletes.

Colleagues consistently point to one defining trait in Slattery’s work: passion.

His work is defined by a unique hands-on, community-driven approach. He frequently travels between the University of Manitoba, University of Winnipeg, and Brandon University, attending practices and games to ensure student-athletes and teams receive meaningful exposure. Much of that work is done on his own time, reflecting a level of commitment that extends well beyond traditional media responsibilities.

Reflecting on the honour, Slattery emphasized the people behind the stories.

"Receiving the 2026 Fred Gus Collins Award is a tremendous honour. To join a long list of journalists I admire and respect who have received it before me is both humbling and unexpected," says Slattery. "I’m grateful for the recognition, but it’s the athletes’ and coaches’ willingness to share their stories and speak candidly about the triumphs, trials, and disappointments that truly resonate with fans who care deeply about these programs and the greater basketball community.

"I’m thankful for their trust and enthusiasm, and I hope this platform continues to bring them the exposure and recognition they deserve."

“Joey has shown a consistent passion for university sport that we in Winnipeg and Manitoba are lucky to have within our ranks,” said David Larkins, Media and Operations Coordinator with the University of Winnipeg Wesmen. “He regularly makes extra effort to make sure coverage is there and you can see his passion in the work he puts forward. He is most deserving of this honour.”

A key part of Slattery’s coverage is his independently produced “U HOOPS Report,” shared through his social media platforms. The series highlights teams and athletes from across the conference and requires significant preparation, storytelling insight, and, above all, dedication to his craft.

In addition to his reporting, Slattery has contributed to Canada West TV broadcasts through a variety of roles, including voiceover work, public address announcing, and event hosting at both the university and conference level.

“Joey is a consummate professional who produces outstanding work, but what sets him apart is the genuine care that he puts into his coverage,” said Stefanie Lasuik, Community Relations Manager with the Manitoba Bisons. “He has made such a difference for both home and visiting student-athletes, their families and fans. He fills many roles and his voice has become a suitable and enduring part of historical moments for the Manitoba Bisons.”

Originally from Timmins, Ont., Slattery has worked in markets across the country, including stops at CTV Northern Ontario, CTV News Regina, CTV News Edmonton and CTV News Winnipeg. His experience also includes time with Sportsnet 590 The Fan in Toronto and as a multi-market talk show host with Corus Entertainment.

Outside of university athletics, he is the play-by-play voice of the Winnipeg Sea Bears and is a CEBL sideline reporter for national broadcasts. Slattery also hosts Target Score Winnipeg, a podcast focused on the CEBL.

Slattery’s impressive broadcasting journey has allowed him to hone his craft as a storyteller, and he believes the stories of student-athletes have widespread appeal.

"I’m grateful for the platform afforded to me through my time as a TV journalist and my roles in Canadian professional basketball. My hope is always that these stories resonate with fans and the community, showcase the elite talent we have in our province, and create a connection for the next generation to see these student-athletes as role models both on and off the court," says Slattery.

"I believe postsecondary sport is underserved, and the potential is still largely untapped from a media and news perspective. In pursuing their goals and dreams, these athletes are becoming our next community leaders who will shape the world of tomorrow. Through sharing their stories, we see the dedication, resilience, and work ethic it takes to achieve success, while also understanding the lessons that come with defeat.

Slattery will move forward as a nominee for the Fred Sgambati Media Award, a national honour presented by U SPORTS.

Follow Joey's coverage on Instagram here.

More about the Fred “Gus” Collins Award

The late Fred "Gus" Collins was a long-time contributor to the development, success and promotion of Canada West, notably through his endless effort to produce updated, accurate statistical information to all media in an era long before laptops and spreadsheets.

The Fred "Gus" Collins Award is presented annually to a member of the media who works tirelessly covering Canada West and its student-athletes. The winner becomes the Canada West nominee for the Fred Sgambati Award, which is presented by U SPORTS to a member of the news media, who has made a major contribution to the development and growth of U SPORTS.

A list of previous Fred "Gus" Collins recipients is available here.