Taimoore Yousaf

The Toronto Tempo have arrived, and they are bringing the explosive energy of the WNBA straight to U of T. Officially awarded as an expansion franchise in May 2024 and unveiled with the “Tempo” moniker that December, Canada’s first WNBA franchise has finally begun play in its inaugural 2026 season in May.

With the conclusion of the winter semester, The Varsity presents the Blues’ second-semester report card, subjectively grading each of the 10 men’s, 10 women’s, and two co-ed Varsity winter teams, their season placement, and this season’s MVP. Notable results include those of the men’s and women’s badminton teams, which took home both provincial and national titles.

Before becoming a two-time U SPORTS high jump champion and Team Canada athlete, Aiden Grout was a kid from Pitt Meadows, BC. He took up track and field in hopes of becoming a faster soccer player. High jump quickly became his calling, carrying him from local meets to the international stages. Grout recently sat down in an interview with The Varsity and discussed his roots, the importance of balance as a student-athlete, and why keeping the sport fun has been pivotal to his success.