Sport: Women's Basketball
What year(s) did you compete for Lakeland: 2011-2014
How did playing for the Rustlers help you get to where you are today (career)?
Rustlers athletics taught me work ethic, accountability, adversity, and teamwork. Playing basketball taught me how to work hard, show up, and give 100%. I learned how to face adversity and fight through it.
Athletics at Lakeland helped opened doors in my career and relationships that have lasted more than my playing years. Becoming a Rustler meant I moved from the United States to Lloydminster! Moving away from home I grew so much as a person and discovered myself.
Where are you working right now and what are you doing?
Lakeland College, I am the administrative assistant to the Dean of Foundational Learning and University Transfer. I am also currently taking courses through Athabasca University and baking in my free time. I enjoy traveling and attending sports with my husband. I am a proud dog mom of three!
Are you still involved with our sport you competed at Lakeland now? Coaching/playing, etc.
After playing, I helped assistant coach with Chris King for four years. Right now, I am a fan of the game. You can catch me every night watching basketball on TV. I do play recreationally still.
What was your favorite moment at Lakeland as a student-athlete?
One of my favorite moments was being the first team in Lakeland Womens basketball history to have a winning season my first year (2011-2012). After that season, the women's team has continued to have a winning season and a post-season appearance in the playoffs. Lakeland women's basketball has transformed ever since, and to be part of building that foundation was something special. Another favorite moment was going to Halifax for a tournament my last year playing. Traveling as a team was always fun and a lot of my best memories with the team was off the court traveling.
Are you still close with any former teammates?
Yes, I still talk to some of my former teammates. Of course I wish some of my former teammates lived closer. Being part of a team is being part of a family and a friendship that isn't like any other. When I got married I had two of my former teammates in my wedding party and others in attendance.
If you could give a couple of words of advice to our current Rustlers what would it be?
Enjoy your time while you have it. Give it your all and dont have regrets. Being a college athlete is a privilege and honor, dont take advantage of it. One day you will miss the routine and the grind that your in. Embrace yourself within the community. You are given a platform that not everyone has. Remember that there is always someone looking up to you on and off the court.
Any additional words of wisdom?
The years go by fast. Being a college athlete is only temporary. Sometimes student athletes complain that they feel that their missing out on other experiences. The rest of the world will be there when your done to explore.
Make all the sacrifices and work your butt off, before you know it your eligibility will run out. The worst thing to feel once the season or your career is done, is the feeling of regret. Do not let that happen to you.
Continue to remind yourself of your goals personally and as a team so you dont get distracted. Remember, you are a student-athelete. Make sure you finish your education and keep it a priority. Instructors at Lakeland are phenomenal to work with. Make sure you build a relationship with all of them.