Awarded annually to a female continuing student-athlete participating on Carleton University’s Women’s Varsity Soccer team. Endowed in 2005 by Alan and Jan Harrison, in memory of their niece.

Jayne Peak was just twenty-four when she died on November 9, 2004, after a courageously fought battle against cancer. An ardent soccer fan, she followed her local club, Colchester United, with a loyalty bordering on devotion.

When Jayne was born, on January 31, 1980, to parents Roger and Chris Peak. She grew up in the small hamlet of Frating, in Essex, England, surrounded by boys, including her brother, Stuart. Soccer soon became a big part of her life and she was always ready to kick around a ball on any available patch of grass.

When she was fifteen, Jayne was invited to a game at Layer Road, home of Colchester United. That day proved to be a major turning point in Jayne’s life and she quickly began working hard so that she could afford a season ticket to the club. This continued with every passing season throughout her short life. Layer Road is now a much quieter place without her vocal support but her spirit will always be there.

In 2004, Jayne entered the Race for Life, and completed the race on July 11, 2004, by cartwheeling across the finish line, and in the process raised over £226 for cancer research. Ironically, it was while training for this event that she began to experience a pain in the lower back.

The pain worsened, and Jayne was admitted to hospital on September 1, 2004, where tests revealed that she was suffering from a very aggressive cancer. After her first course of chemotherapy, Jayne felt well enough to attend a soccer game in her wheelchair, between Colchester United and their arch rivals Southend United. Jayne was delighted to be back at Layer Road and she was presented with a Colchester United shirt by two team members.

During Jayne’s stay in hospital, all the staff warmed to her fantastic sense of humour and caring nature. They, along with her family and friends, were absolutely devastated when Jayne finally succumbed to this dreadful disease.

A unique funeral service took place on November 17, 2004, attended by more than 300 people. Jayne had requested that everyone wear Colchester United colours, blue and white, which most people honoured, and many of her friends wore Colchester United team shirts. Following the service, a celebration of Jayne’s life was held in the players’ lounge at Layer Road, a perfect way to say goodbye to a quite remarkable young lady.

Jayne’s love for life was immeasurable, as was the love from her family. Jayne’s presence will be sadly missed forever.