1. What advice would you give to young female athletes at Shawnigan?
My biggest advice to young female athletes at Shawnigan would be to never defer to the minimum requirements. No matter what it is that you are doing, always seek to exceed expectations and push your boundaries. Get comfortable with the uncomfortable; embrace challenges as opportunities to grow, both as an athlete and as an individual. And finally, you are your own biggest fan; celebrate yourself and your successes, big and small.
2. Can you share a memorable moment from your sports career that shaped who you are today?
Honestly, I'm a firm believer that the moment that everyone sees is just the crescendo. It's the small everyday things that have led up to those unforgettable moments that have made me into the person and the athlete that I am today.
3. How has being an athlete influenced your life beyond sports?
Being an athlete has influenced my life in more ways than I can really comprehend. First off, being an athlete has taught me to set widely ambitious goals and to pursue them passionately. In doing so I have learned to not shy away from taking risks or making mistakes, as these moments often provide the most important learning experiences. Secondly, sports have taught me how important it is to develop myself as a whole human. It is so incredibly important to remember that, while sports are a massive part of my life, it is equally vital that I dedicate time to my academics, hobbies, and social life, and also ensure I set aside moments to simply relax and recharge.
4. What was a lesson you learned through sports that you still carry with you?
One of the most valuable lessons I've learned through sports, which I still carry with me today, is that no one owes you anything—you must go out and earn it yourself. At the end of the day, you, and only you, can fully appreciate the work that you put in. This mindset has allowed me to take personal responsibility and accountability, remain proactive, and pursue my goals with determination and confidence. It has taught me the importance of initiative and self-reliance, shaping not just my athletic journey but also every other aspect of my life.
5. Who has been your biggest inspiration and why?
My biggest inspiration is Hayley Wickenheiser. Not only is she an extraordinary athlete who has paved the way for countless female athletes in hockey and beyond, but she also embodies resilience, leadership, and a relentless commitment to excellence. Hayley’s dedication both on and off the ice and her unwavering pursuit of her goals have profoundly inspired me. She has taught me that true leaders uplift those around them and that hard work, humility, and courage can break barriers and set new standards. She is a person that I greatly admire and respect not only as a trailblazer in the sports world but also as a trailblazer in the professional world. Since retiring, Hayley has gone back to and graduated from medical school; she holds a head position with the Toronto Maple Leafs; she started one of the largest youth female hockey tournaments; and so much more.
