For the past three years, OUA gold-medal high jumper Celia Markovinovic (Puslinch/) has cemented herself as one of the best in the province. But now, she's being recognized for something even greater – her contributions off the track.
On Wednesday afternoon, Markovinovic was named recipient of the OUA track and field's female athlete community service award. And the next day, she was named the national recipient of the community service award at the U SPORTS awards banquet ahead of the national championship meet in Winnipeg.
"Winning this award is deeply meaningful to me, because it recognized the journey of learning and growth that my community work has facilitated," said Markovinovic. "Every opportunity to serve my community has been a chance to expand my understanding, empathy, and skills. Each experience has taught me the importance of giving back, and how invaluable it is to create new connections with all people in the community."
Markovinovic's exploits are well-known on the track and field circuit: she's won a high jump medal in three straight OUA championships, including gold this year, with a personal best of 1.69m. She also finished 8th in the 60m hurdles, and ran the fastes split on the Warriors' 4x200m relay team. But what's lesser known to the casual observer is her dedication to causes in the community.
Markovinovic is an events coordinator with the uWaterloo chapter of Make-A-Wish, helping raise over $1500 for the organization that helps turn wishes into reality for children with critical illnesses. She also volunteers with the on-campus organization CCCARE (Centre for Community, Clinical and Applied Research Excellence), working with cancer and cancer remission patients engage with aerobic and resistance exercise.
And her tireless community work is nothing new – since 2020, Markovinovic has been involved with Canadian Blood Services, and she also worked with the Halton branch of the Woodview Mental Health and Autism Services, helping youth overcome anxiety and depression.
In addition to her work on the track and in the community, Markovinovic also stars in the classroom: The fifth-year health studies major is a three-time Academic All-Canadian, and is well on her way to a fourth selection – she led the track and field team with a 95% academic average in the Fall 2023 term. She also sits on the OUA's Women in Sport committee, serving as one of their student-athlete representatives.
In a joint statement, Warriors track and field coaches Kate Bickle-Ferth and Shane Ferth praised Markovinovic's achievements on the track, but recognized that her contributions within the team and on campus speaks volumes for not only their program, but for Markovinovic herself as a person.
"Celia's achievements in track & field exemplify her dedication, while her active volunteerism in public health underscores her commitment to making a difference beyond sport," said the co-coaches. "In just three years, Celia has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving into a natural leader both on and off the track. Her progression from committed athlete to captain is evident as she leads by example, embodying the values of dedication, excellence, and perseverance. She's an ambitious overachiever who consistently strives for excellence and refuses to accept anything less than greatness, inspiring those around her to aim for their best."
Markovinovic will look to add more hardware later this week in Winnipeg, as she takes part in the U SPORTS national track and field championships. She comes into the event ranked fourth in the nation in high jump, and will look for a podium finish to cap her season.
