London ON - We are thrilled to share that Allie Columbus, Assistant Coach with the Western Mustangs Women's Basketball program, has been named Head Coach of Women's Basketball at Niagara College.

Allie Columbus joined our program in 2023 after a decorated academic and athletic career at Brock University, where she served as team captain and earned multiple Academic All-Canadian honours. Over the past two years, while completing her Bachelor of Education at Western, Allie quickly became a vital part of the Mustangs Basketball staff and a favourite among players. Her impact was felt both on and off the court—whether in practices, study hall, or through her consistent commitment to athlete well-being.

Her academic research, conducted while completing her Master's degree at Brock, focused on the impacts of various factors on individual athlete mental health; an area where she brought both passion and insight to her role here. Allie's team-first mentality was evident from day one—even suiting up for the Mustangs when numbers were low during her first season.

We are incredibly proud of Allie and excited to watch her take the next step in her coaching journey at Niagara College. She will be deeply missed, but we know she has a bright future ahead.

Nate McKibbon, Head Coach, Western Mustangs Women's Basketball, shared "Allie is one of the brightest young coaches I've had the pleasure to work with. I've known her since she was a middle school athlete playing for me at Transway. Watching her development through high school, university, and now into the coaching profession has been incredible. She's had a tremendous impact on everyone in our program, and I'm proud to now call her a coaching colleague. I know she will continue to change lives and inspire athletes in her new role at Niagara College."

Please join the Mustangs in congratulating Coach Columbus on this exciting new opportunity!