Walker Ratte announced as Mount Allison recipient of AUS PepsiCo James Bayer Memorial Scholarship Award

(HALIFAX, N.S.) Atlantic University Sport is pleased to announce Mount Allison Mounties football student-athlete Walker Ratte as Mount Allison University's recipient of the AUS PepsiCo James Bayer Memorial Scholarship Award.

Beginning this year, Atlantic University Sport is recognizing one student-athlete from each member university as a recipient of the prestigious award, highlighting outstanding achievement in academics, athletics, leadership, sportsmanship and citizenship.

Each recipient receives a $500 scholarship in recognition of their accomplishments.

Established in 1985, the James Bayer Memorial Scholarship Award is one of Atlantic University Sport's premier student-athlete honours.

A third-year accounting student from Edmonton, Alta., Ratte has distinguished himself through his leadership, academic achievement and commitment to supporting those around him.

Academically, Ratte has excelled throughout his university career, earning U SPORTS Academic All-Canadian honours in each of his first three seasons at Mount Allison.

A linebacker with the Mounties football program, Ratte dressed for every game as a rookie and quickly established himself as a regular starter. He has been a key contributor on the defensive side of the ball throughout his career, earning the trust and respect of teammates and coaches through his consistency, preparation and work ethic.

This season, Ratte appeared in seven games for the Mounties, recording 12 solo tackles, 32 assisted tackles and two pass breakups.

Beyond his athletic and academic accomplishments, Ratte has demonstrated a strong commitment to leadership, mentorship and community engagement. He has supported fellow student-athletes through Mount Allison's varsity athletics tutoring program and football mentorship program, helping younger students navigate both academic and athletic demands.

Ratte has also demonstrated a strong commitment to community engagement. He serves as a Community Swimming Program Coordinator and volunteers with the Diving into Equity community swim initiative. He has also participated in a football skills camp in Elsipogtog First Nation and has been involved in community outreach and physical education initiatives with Salem Elementary School, Port Elgin School and Riverview Elementary School.

In addition to his volunteer work, Ratte serves on the Grad Selection Award Committee and is a member of the Mount Allison Investment Club. His coaches describe him as a student-athlete who leads by example, setting a standard for preparation, accountability and professionalism. Known for his humility, discipline and sportsmanship, he has earned a reputation as a trusted teammate and role model both on and off the field.

"Walker embodies everything that a student-athlete should aspire to be," said Mount Allison Mounties football head coach Scott Brady. "A dedicated teammate, leader, mentor and role model, he has been a cornerstone of our football program throughout his career. His leadership, integrity, work ethic and commitment to helping others make him an outstanding representative of Mount Allison University."

Ratte becomes the fifth student-athlete to be announced as a 2026 AUS PepsiCo James Bayer Memorial Scholarship Award recipient. Acadia's Leah Adams, Cape Breton's Ellie Lancaster, Dalhousie's Melina Collins and Memorial's Norm Burry have also been announced as recipients. The remaining six recipients will be announced over the coming days.

James Bayer taught education and physical education at both high school and university levels. He served as supervisor and consultant for the Nova Scotia Department of Culture, Recreation and Fitness.

At Acadia University, he served as dean of recreation and physical education and as director of athletics from 1978-1985. As an administrator in the AUAA and the CIAU, he was a key player in the establishment of intercollegiate athletic policy.

The PepsiCo James Bayer Memorial Scholarship Award is presented annually by PepsiCo Beverages Canada.