VICTORIA - Alex Gamage is breaking the mould with every tackle—and every test. The third-year rugby standout isn't just a force on the field; he's a two-time recipient of the Provost Award, an honour recognizing UVic's top academic student-athlete(s) each year. With a perfect 9.0 GPA while studying biochemistry, Gamage proves that excellence in athletics and academics go hand in hand. 

Born in London, UK, Gamage grew up chasing his older brother, Chris, both on and off the rugby field. The brothers picked up the game at age five, and by the time their family moved to Calgary, Alta. when they were seven and ten, they were already outpacing the competition. Three years younger, Alex never got to play alongside Chris until they both landed at UVic. 

When it came time for [Alex] Gamage to choose a university, UVic was an easy choice, not only providing one of the best rugby programs in the country, but the opportunity to play alongside Chris. Three years later, the brothers will share the pitch in a Vikes uniform one last time as Chris plays his final university match on Nov. 29 under the lights at Centennial Stadium. 

"It's been great playing alongside my brother; it almost feels like we don't even have to talk sometimes; we just know what the other is going to do. I'm going to miss our unspoken brotherly connection," said Alex Gamage. 

Beyond the pitch, Gamage excels as a top academic achiever and a dedicated student-athlete. Driven by a passion for math and science, he is preparing to take the MCAT next summer with aspirations of becoming a doctor—ideally specializing in orthopedics. 

"I like the real-world application of my program and getting to see how what we're learning about can be applied to humans in a clinical setting," said Gamage.  

Though Gamage makes it seem effortless, his success is rooted in meticulous discipline, applying the same dedication and practice to his studies that he brings to the rugby field. 

When asked about the secret to his achievements, the Provost Award winner believes that while working hard and studying is obviously a big part of it, he also emphasizes reviewing lectures immediately to reinforce concepts and ensure a deep understanding. "There is a difference between memorizing and learning, and I try to really think about the material and make sure I've learned it."   

Gamage also has a knack for compartmentalizing school and sport, finding it hard to study on game day and instead making sure that when he does do schoolwork, he's all in and fully present.  

"This [men's rugby] program has been amazing, and I think it's also helped me academically. Playing rugby helps me stay focussed and motivated to work hard—I think I need that separation from school." 

While Gamage has clearly mastered balancing life as a student-athlete, he believes the biggest takeaway from his university experience so far has come from his coaches and teammates. "My teammates are basically all my best friends. Being surrounded by this group of guys has really helped my growth as a person."