UPEI Cross Country bolsters rosters with star transfers and promising rookies

By Thomas Becker

The UPEI Panthers cross country teams are making a statement heading into the 2025 season, unveiling an exciting recruitment class highlighted by two AUS all-star transfers—Joel Gallant and Bridget Keedwell—as well as a deep and talented rookie crop on both the men's and women's sides.

One of the most high-profile additions in recent program history, Joel Gallant (Mont Carmel, PEI) brings elite pedigree to the Panthers men's team. A two-time AUS all-star with the St. FX X-Men and fourth-place finisher at the 2023 AUS Cross Country Championships, Gallant is returning to his home province to pursue a Master of Science in Human Biology at UPEI. His comeback story is just as impressive. That fourth-place conference finish came after undergoing major foot surgery, and he hasn't slowed down since. In 2024, he shattered the course record at the Cabot Trail Relay Race, helping his team secure a first-place finish.

"It goes without saying that we are very excited Joel has decided to pursue his Masters at UPEI," said head coach Mike Peterson. "It's not every day that you have someone with the potential to win the conference join your team. His arrival has sparked a level of excitement we haven't seen before." 

On the women's side, Bridget Keedwell returns home to Charlottetown after a successful university career with the St. FX X-Women. A 2022 AUS second team all-star, Keedwell was a steady presence throughout her time at St. FX, culminating in a 5 km personal best during her final season. She also took part in the renowned Cabot Trail Relay, further showcasing her endurance and competitive spirit. Her experience and leadership will be a major asset to a rising UPEI squad.

"No stranger to the PEI running scene, Bridget was a standout at Colonel Gray and has continued to excel at the university level," Peterson said. "Her experience and ability add depth to our women's team, and we believe she can help us make a push for the podium for the first time in program history."

Alongside Gallant, UPEI adds three strong newcomers on the men's team:

Mathew Young (Point-Claire, QC) arrives from John Abbott College, where he was a key contributor to their CCAA national championship qualifying team. "Mathew has made great strides in just two years," said Peterson. "He has a real shot to crack our top 7."

Jake Chapman (Tantallon, NS), a biology student and member of the Halifax Road Hammers, brings proven long-distance strength, having placed first in his age group and eighth overall at both the Bluenose and Valley Harvest half marathons. "He's a diamond in the rough — very strong potential," noted Peterson.

Riley Webber (Truro, NS) is a Cobequid Educational Centre product with multiple provincial podiums. "He has a lot of tread left on the tire. With some focused training, he could be a major contributor."

Adding depth and promise to an already ambitious roster, the women's team welcomes two talented newcomers who are poised to make an immediate impact:

Sarah Irwin (Kingston, ON) joins from Holy Cross Secondary School with plenty of upside despite dealing with a foot injury. "She has shown high-calibre potential and is someone we're very excited about," said Peterson.

Lucy Power (Stratford, PE) is a multi-time PEISAA champion from Charlottetown Rural, including titles in 2022 and 2024. "Lucy is an athlete in every sense," said Peterson. "We think she can be a force in the AUS once she commits fully to the sport."

With a mix of proven talent and promising potential, this year's recruiting class marks an exciting new chapter for UPEI Cross Country. The addition of elite transfers like Gallant and Keedwell brings immediate firepower and leadership, while the incoming rookies offer a glimpse into a bright future. As the program continues to build momentum, the Panthers have every reason to believe that 2025 could be a breakthrough season.