Super Fire Athletics: Embracing the True Meaning of Sport

For many athletes, success begins and ends with the scoreboard. For Super Fire Athletics, it starts somewhere else entirely. Wins are rare, championships aren’t the goal, and yet their games draw attention for all the right reasons. Step into a gym or field where a Super Fire team is playing, and it quickly becomes clear that the game itself is only part of the story. Between the laughter, post-game interviews, and an organization proudly calling itself “the most serious, unserious team in the league,” Super Fire Athletics has built something that extends far beyond wins and losses.

One day in Mulroney Hall, Super Fire Athletics co-founder, Eric MacGillivary, came up with the idea to start a social media page for their team. Originally started as a joke to celebrate the team’s players, the account quickly gained a following. MacGillivary stated, “originally the account was just gonna be like 30 followers, for this small group of people having fun. It grew way bigger than we ever thought it would be, but people find it entertaining.” Their reach has even extended to faculty members, with some of the players’ professor attending their recent Super Hoopers game, staying not only for the game but also to participate in post-game interviews with the players. Since its inception in 2024, Super Fire Athletics has grown to include three teams: Super Strikers (soccer), Super Spikers (volleyball), and Super Hoopers (basketball), and has gained a following of over 250 people on Instagram. Co-founder Connor Samson expressed his appreciation for their followers, “ I don’t want to think too much of our organization, but the fact that there’s so many dedicated people that are there to support our group and have just as much fun with it, watching the games, as we do playing… it’s good that it just brings people in.”

While Super Fire Athletics may look unconventional from the outside, MacGillivary and Samson say that positivity and togetherness are at the core of everything they do.

“Well, we probably have one of the highest losing records all-time across all of our teams. But we always smile and we always keep it positive no matter what. Something I do is make inspirational videos to hype up the team. I mean it was just for fun at first, but people loved watching them, so I kept doing it. But it’s all about the spirit for us really. We lose so many games, but we still have fun after the game with the interviews and stuff.” – Eric MacGillivary

“I think its all about fun, and teamwork, and the sportsmanship. We’re a very tight-knit group, it’s always fun with the group of students that we have. We’re all very good friends. And like Eric was saying, to have that energy after the game. You could argue that more fun is had with the extra stuff that we do more than the game itself because we really have a good time with that … we just do our best, hope nobody gets hurt, and just have fun out there. That’s what its about.” – Connor Samson

They continued by discussing how their organization really tries to focus on teamwork and enjoying each other’s company while staying active. Their teams have adopted pre-game huddles, post-game interviews, and introduced player of the game recognitions to keep the experience fun and engaging for everyone involved.

This past March, the Super Strikers received the ‘Spirit Award’ from StFX intramurals which is given to the team who best embodies the values of sportsmanship, enthusiasm, and positivity in intramurals. It recognizes the Super Strikers ability to uplift the league with their encouragement and respect for all intramurals participants. MacGillivary says, “We didn’t win on the scoreboard, but we won in spirit, so we got to be [at the Awards banquet] and celebrate the rest of the teams. So that was a pretty proud moment”.

While sitting down with MacGillivary and Samson, both emphasized the impact intramurals have had on their lives as students. Samson described intramurals as a much-needed balance to the academic demands of university life, offering a mental reset and a chance to reconnect with friends outside the classroom: “it’s a good balance… a break from academics… it clears my mind and helps the academic side of things.” MacGillivary added, “I thought my grade twelve gym class was the last time I was ever going to play a sport … so the fact that intramurals is a thing at StFX is one of the greatest perks.”

In a time when many are overwhelmed by academic pressure, Super Fire Athletics continues to embrace the true meaning of sport, proving that success is not always found on the scoreboard, but rather in teamwork, friendship, and being just serious enough to have fun.

X-Women Hockey: Champions in Motion

In an intense battle between the StFX Women's hockey team and the University of New Brunswick Reds in March of 2025, the X-Women defeated the Reds 2-1, earning the title of the 2025 AUS Women's Hockey Champions. This season, the X-Women look to defend their title for the 2026 season. As of the current rankings, the X-Women sit in the top five nationally in U-Sports and are ranked second in the AUS division, with a current season record of 17-5. 

Captained by Landyn Pitts, the X-Women have shown excellence, grit, determination, and power within the AUS. This past weekend, the X-women defeated the Saint Mary’s Huskies with a dominant 6-0 victory. Tea Pearce was named Player of the Game, while Laci Boyd and Lainey Joyce received second and third star honours. Goals were scored by Pearce, Ireland McCloskey, Toby Graham, Joyce, Boyd, and Alexis Perry. In goal was Brooklyn Oakes with a shutout performance.

This past weekend, both games carried meaningful recognition and awareness initiatives. Friday’s game marked Bell Let's Talk Night, supporting mental health awareness, with towel and buff giveaways, and the opportunity to fill out speech bubbles. Led by Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) members Skye Koyote and Zach Houde, this event closed out a week of campus-wide mental health awareness events. 

“Mental Health week at StFX is in honour of Bell Let’s Talk Day, where we are trying to help break the stigma and keep the conversation around mental health moving in athletics, especially. As a 5th-year athlete, I have had my share of injuries and tough moments in the sport, as well as many really special ones, and I was really excited to bring some speakers in with the two webinar sessions we had, as well as organizing our yoga night, the speaker panel, and raising awareness at the X-Women’s hockey game Friday night. My fellow SAAC mental health rep, Zach Houde, was so fun to work with, and we couldn’t have put on any of the events without help from the Athletics staff. Having the opportunity to drop the puck at the game with Zach was very cool for sure, and I’m very honoured to have been given the opportunity to do so, but that’s not why we do what we do. We put in the extra time, so that other people can feel important and cared for, and to continue the conversation around mental health because it’s not an easy one” - Skye Koyote (SAAC Mental Health Representative).

On Saturday, the X-Women faced the Dalhousie Tigers and earned a 5-1 victory. Jorja Burrows was named the Gabriel Pizza player of the game, with twenty saves that helped the X-Women to victory. The game was played in recognition of Motionball, a Canadian non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness, fostering inclusion, and providing opportunities for Special Olympic athletes. “Having Special Olympic athletes with us tonight is what Motionball is all about… bringing people together through sport and celebrating inclusion, teamwork, and community,” said Alison LeBlanc, a second-year Human Kinetics student and an executive member of the StFX Motionball committee as one of the varsity athlete coordinators.

As the season continues, the X-Women look to continue their top performance this weekend against the Mount Alison Mounties. 

StFX Basketball: Shooting for the Cure

On Friday night the X-Women and X-Men Basketball teams took on the Dalhousie Tigers in their annual Shoot for the Cure games, an event dedicated to supporting breast cancer awareness and research. The X-Women earned a convincing 79-58 victory, improving their record to a 9-4 season. The X-Men followed with a 90-76 point victory, boosting them to a 10-3 record and securing the top spot in AUS standings. Player of the game honours were awarded to Mali Straker for the X-Women and Nicolas Naire for the X-Men.

Beyond the results on the court, the night carried deeper meaning for many fans and athletes. First-year guard and Human Kinetics student Ava MacNutt from Halifax, Nova Scotia shared how breast cancer has impacted her family, and what the game meant to her. “My aunt had breast cancer many years ago and got very sick. She was only 40 when she was diagnosed,” MacNutt recounted. “Being able to play in the game means a lot to me, because I think raising awareness for breast cancer screening and treatment is super important. If funds raised from this game can help even one person beat this disease it would be amazing.” MacNutt added that the night was especially meaningful as her aunt, a now survivor, was in attendance and remains one of the X-Women’s biggest supporters.

Now in its 19th year, USPORTS’ Shoot for the Cure campaign has raised over $2 million in support of breast cancer awareness and research since its inception in 2007. This year, the campaign hopes to reach a fundraising goal of $100,000. 

Those interested in supporting the cause can donate to the USPORTS Shoot for the Cure campaign using the link below. Donations help the Canadian Cancer Society fund life-saving cancer research, provide support and information to individuals living with cancer, and advocate for health policies that will improve the lives of Canadians living with cancer.

Donation link…

https://fundraisemyway.cancer.ca/shootforthecure

X-Men Football Season Recap

After a fierce home-turf battle between the Bishop’s Gaiters and  StFX X-Men Football team, Tyson Heather punched their ticket to the Loney Bowl Championship with a three-point field goal, bringing the final score to 26–24 over the Gaiters in the final minutes of the AUS semi-final. 

Heading into playoff season, the X-Men were ranked second in the AUS with a 5–3 win–loss record, gaining 187 points and allowing 109 points against. The X-Men advanced to compete for the AUS Championship title against the Saint Mary’s Huskies on Saturday, November 8th, joined by many friends and family who traveled to cheer on the white and blue despite the rainy conditions. This matchup was a rematch of their last regular-season game, where the X-Men fell 26–10 to the Huskies. 

Despite their hard-fought efforts, the X-Men suffered a tough loss in the 2025 Loney Bowl Championship, with a final score of 46–11 in favour of SMU. Saint Mary’s secured their first AUS Championship title since 2010 and went on to play in the Uteck Bowl National Semifinal, hosting the Montréal Carabins the following Saturday. Against a strong Huskies defensive attack, the X-Men earned their points through kicker Tyson Heather, with nine of their 11 points, and punter Malcolm Cameron who forced SMU to concede a safety. 

Despite the loss, the X-Men achieved numerous accomplishments throughout the 2025 season. They celebrated three AUS Defensive All-Stars: David McGill (defensive tackle), Owen Watrych (linebacker), and Naijaun David (cornerback), alongside four Offensive and Special Teams All-Stars: Devaughn Blackwood (receiver), Zachary Houde (receiver), Malcolm Bussey (running back), and Malcolm Cameron (punter). Major award winners included Owen Watrych as the AUS Outstanding Defensive Player, and Bryce Fisher as the Gino Fracas Award nominee. 

Several other significant milestones were also reached: Owen Watrych set the record for most single-season tackles in StFX history; Malcolm Bussey became the program’s all-time leader in rushing yards; and Silas Faghan is now the AUS all-time leader in career passing yards, career completions, and career passing touchdowns. Additionally, this past week, Owen Watrych was recognized as a U-Sports Second Team All-Star at the annual Vanier Cup awards gala. 

The X-Men have much to be proud of, and their eyes are set on the 2026 season.  

Athlete Feature: Tobi Sokunbi

Tobi Sokunbi is a third-year student-athlete with StFX University, working towards a Bachelor of Science in Nursing while playing on the defensive line for X-Men football. Tobi came to StFX in September of 2023 from his hometown of Winnipeg, Manitoba, originally committed to obtaining a Bachelor of Arts & Science in Health. After his completing his first year of the health program, Tobi made the switch into nursing with a desire to have a more hands-on learning experience and hoped that the switch allow him to make a more immediate impact on people’s lives after graduation. During his time at StFX, Tobi has been active in the community, working as a peer advisor at the Black Student Success Center on campus, helping mentor future generations at the X-Men football summer camps, and has gained various recognitions including the Danny Galvin Memorial Scholarship in recognition of leadership and academic excellence, as well as an Academic All-Canadian recognition. Through his academics, clinical experiences, and work with course professors, Tobi has also developed a keen interest for research, hoping to pursue future studies in the field of medical imaging and issues with access in rural areas such as Antigonish, Nova Scotia. After his time at StFX, Tobi plans to begin his nursing career, while hoping to pursue further education in the areas of flight nursing, nurse practitioner, or medical school.

We had a chance to sit down with Tobi and hear first-hand about life as a student-athlete at StFX, and why he chose the path he did:

Question: “What made you choose X?”

Answer: “The culture, I would say. On my recruitment visit, the coaches harped on about how they support their students academically. The small class sizes, they mentioned the easy transition from high school. And the people here on my visit, the people I met, and the teammates I currently have now seeing how they all gelled with each other. The sense of family, you could tell the sense of family is there. It’s a sense of family, belonging, and that I can make my own community here. And then I would also have supports with my academics through athletics.”

Question: “Has there been a project or professor that’s really inspired you to want to do research?”

“Jesse McNichol. It’s not nursing, its microbiology, but his research on it, and his research experience that he’s told us about has just made me more interested in research and wanted to pursue research. Maybe not in microbiology, but it’s made me want to pursue that aspect. It’s fun to learn. It’s fun to learn a lot of things about a specific thing. So you know, I would just like to know more. The way he teaches with the knowledge he has learned, and the experiences he’s had working with other professors like Erin Mazerolle - she’s done research on the brain, and I almost did a project with her in first year - just the way they talk about it about the experiences running it, and how it could possibly impact people and the changes it could create – that’s what’s got me interested in research.”

Question: “How have your experiences as an athlete influenced the way you approach your studies?”

Answer: “It’s made me more I would say aware of time management. I would say football teaches me discipline and with that discipline it translates into nursing and in academics. Like as you know you need discipline. There’s not really that much fun time, like we practice until pretty late and there’s always things to do, things to read. It’s the discipline to, okay I want to be the best I can be in both aspects. It’s the discipline to wake up early and go to lifts, and instead of staying up all night playing video games, getting your work done.”

Question: “How do you see your role as athlete within your community and what impact do you hope to make off the field?”

Answer: “Off the field, I just want to make people feel like they belong. The sense of community that brought me here, I want to create that for other people. For example, in my job as a peer mentor, my job is not to facilitate, but it is to connect people to the resources they may need. I help people find the things they need, and I help connect people to those sources. It is helping people find a sense of community, helping people feel like they belong – just to help people off the field. Like this summer. I stayed [in Antigonish] over the summer, and we had a kid’s camp. It’s helping people find what their niche is, kids trying out different positions, trying to find out what better suits them, what better works for them. Helping them find that love for football, and that joy that I get – I try and give that to other people.”

Question: “If you could give advice to younger athletes or students following in your footsteps, what would you say?”

“Be patient. There’s a thing my coach tells me: it’s ‘Paralysis from analysis’, it means just let things happen, let life happen. A lot of things will go on in life, there’s lots of obstacles, there’s lots of highs and lows. In athletics, especially coming into university, you are not where you want to be and it takes time to get there, but enjoy that process. Even with academics, it’s an eye-opening process, the first midterm after high school. Like let’s say you’re a good student in high school, it’s a whole different thing in university. So, the first few tests they might not go as well as you want them to but just trust the process. Let life happen and try to work out what works for you… Most important one is ‘paralysis from analysis’, don’t get stuck while thinking about the process, don’t get stuck, don’t let life stick you. Don’t get dragged down in your own head. Just let life flow, don’t get paralysed from analyzing things.”

Tobi’s journey is still unfolding, but his commitment to growth on the field, in the classroom, and the contributions he makes to his community already set him apart. Grounded by discipline, driven by curiosity, and motivated by a desire to give back, Tobi represents a leadership style that inspires others to follow. As he continues carving his path in football, nursing, and research, Tobi remains focused on what matters most: creating community, embracing the process, and helping others to find their place at StFX, just as he found his.

Glory and Gratitude: X-Women Rugby Captures AUS Championship Before Saying Goodbye to Veteran Core

After an undefeated regular season, the StFX X-Women capped off their dominant run with a thrilling 33-31 victory over the Acadia Axewomen to capture their 24th AUS title.

Prior to kickoff, AUS All-Stars Jessie Penney, Kendra McDonell, Akwaima Akpan, and Shona Galloway were recognized for their outstanding seasons. The X-Women had a near sweep of the conference’s major awards, with Brown’nesha Willis Glasgow named Rookie of the Year, Katie Murphy earning the Community Service Award, and head coach Mike Cavanagh honoured as AUS Coach of the Year. Their victory was complete with tries from Leblanc, Penney (2), K. McDonell, and von Mueldorfer, along with four conversions from Murphy. For her outstanding play, von Mueldorfer was named Championship MVP.

At the U SPORTS National Championships in Vancouver, BC, the X-Women fell 45-21 in the quarter final to the Guelph Gryphons, with X-Women tries scored by Koyote, Gottselig, and Penney, and conversions completed by Murphy, and Leblanc (2). In the consolation semifinal, the X-Women fell 55-3 to the Ottawa GeeGees, closing the season with a 6-2-1 record. Penney and Gottselig from the X-Women were named Nike Team Players of the Game for their strong performances.

Thursday night at the U SPORTS National banquet, Penney and Akpan were named U SPORTS Second-Team All-Canadians, while von Mueldorfer received the Holmes Memorial Award for her off-field contributions to the game of rugby at her university and in her community.

These national honours provided a fitting end to a memorable season for the X-Women, who will also bid farewell to a large class of graduating players, whose dedication has shaped the program’s ongoing success: Akwaima Akpan, Emily Dodge, Megan Finlay, Courtney Gottselig, Jillian Griffith, Skye Koyote, Kendra McDonell, Michaela Moreau, Katie Murphy, Jill Sanford, Olivia Villamere, Val von Mueldorfer, and Sierra Wood.

Reflecting on her time with the team, fourth-year prop and graduating player Val von Mueldorfer shared, “I leave this team with fond memories of late-night practices, hard-fought games, two white hats, and lifelong friendships. It is truly a privilege to have spent my four years at StFX as a member of the X-Women rugby team, and I am so grateful for my experience. Top Left”.

X-Men Soccer's Championship Run

After a great 2025 season, the X-Men soccer team unfortunately fell just short in a double overtime loss against the Dalhousie Tigers in the AUS semi-finals. The X-Men finished the season with an impressive 8-2-2 record. Led by captain Luke Green, the team consistently ranked among the top five programs in U SPORTS, climbing as high as the top three during the season. The 2025 roster featured a wealth of experience, including graduating players Will Remisch, Logan Rieck, Sam Diltz, Luke Green, Kyle Cordeiro, Damian Dedekker, and Max Bodurtha.  

The X-Men have been a powerhouse within the AUS in recent years, capturing back-to-back conference titles in 2023 and 2024. On Thursday, October 23rd, at St. Francis Xavier University, the 2025 AUS playoffs kicked off, and featured the top eight teams across Atlantic Canada. In the quarterfinals, StFX faced the Memorial Seahawks and battled to a hard-fought 1-0 victory. Kyle Cordeiro scored the game winning kick in the 76th minute, assisted by Samuel Barrowcliffe. 

With eyes set on the semi-finals, the X-Men prepared for a familiar matchup against the Dalhousie Tigers, who had been tough competition earlier in the season. As expected, it was a tight game and physical battle. The Tigers struck first with a goal from Mohammed Wahdan, but Logan Rieck answered in the 31st minute to even the score at 1-1. The game continued into double overtime, with the X-Men receiving eight cards over the course of the match. In the 102nd minute, Dalhousie’s Jack Ellis scored the game winning goal, securing the Tigers’ spot in the final. Dalhousie went on to claim the 2025 AUS Championship with a thrilling 3-2 win over the Cape Breton Capers on Sunday, October 26th. 

Throughout the fall season, the X-Men demonstrated exceptional talent, grit, and determination. Defenders Max Bodurtha and Luke Green, along with midfielder Logan Rieck, were named AUS First Team All-Stars, while goalkeeper Samuel Diltz and midfielder Isaac Vanwychen earned Second Team All-Stars. 

Though the season ended sooner than they had hoped, the X-Men have much to be proud of. Thank you to all supporters who cheered them on through the highs and lows, your support never goes unnoticed. 

The Importance of Charity in Sport

The world of North American professional sports is the world of one of the most profitable industries in the Western world. Star athletes (and State Farm commercials) appear on the nation’s biggest stage, with many signing massive multi-million-dollar contracts funded by the combination of billionaires, ticket sales, lucrative TV deals, and so many sponsors. It may seem like a foregone conclusion that these athletes have an image to keep up, and as a result, stay away from charity donations. But I believe that it runs deeper than that. The move to support charities isn’t just a public relations move but a value ingrained into the very fabric of sport. With sport, there must be sportsmanship, and charity is the ultimate form of that.

The inspiration for this article came from the recent Pucks for Purpose hockey games, an excellent display of student leadership, charitable community efforts, corporate sponsorships, event planning, and entertainment. Even though AUS athletes do not have the wealth present in professional sports leagues, their participation in the event brought about the perfect marriage of charity and sport. More importantly, these games show that charity can flourish regardless of the level of funding. No matter how much wealth a person does or does not have, sportsmanship is founded on respect for peers in the sport. It isn’t hard to see how that can be extended to respect for the community and viewing us as all on the same team.

One of my personal favourite charitable organizations run by an athlete is Craig’s Closet, run by the Pittsburgh Steelers' Cam Heyward. Cam, being the recipient of the 2023 Walter Payton Man of the Year award—an honour bestowed upon the most charitable NFL player of the season—named this organization after his late father who could not afford a proper fitting suit growing up. The organization allows young men to have formal attire that they would otherwise not be able to afford.

My own experience working at Tip Top Tailors makes this specific charity dear to me. While working there, I saw young and older men alike struggle to afford formal attire for events. The young men stick out to me particularly clearly, as the Cape Breton Regional Municipality (my home county) has one of the highest child poverty rates in all of Nova Scotia. It was always difficult to see a mother come in for her son’s prom and not be able to afford a suit because so many other expenses needed to be covered just to survive. Seeing an athlete, with who knows how much money between contracts, various sponsorships, and other business ventures, be recognized for his charity directly addressing a problem that hit so close to home for me made me and the struggles I witnessed daily feel seen.

With this, I cannot stress enough how impressed I am—and how impressed the rest of the student body should be—with an event like Pucks for Purpose. Going beyond sport, it is an amazing charity project that takes an insane amount of coordination to pull off successfully. And the respect that sportsmanship brings through something like this, even though I can’t even ice skate, reminds us that we are all part of one team in our small, college town community.

Antigonish Recreation: An Escape from Campus Life

As winter’s final chills give way to the anticipation of spring, and exams quickly approaching, now is the perfect time to explore the range of recreational opportunities available in Antigonish.

Despite the wealth of options the town offers, many students and residents may be unaware of the local exercise opportunities at their disposal. These include equipment loan programs, scenic hiking trails, and must-see historic landmarks.

Antigonish County Recreation offers an extensive equipment loan program that breaks down the barriers of cost and accessibility. The initiative is intended to enhance opportunities for fun and healthy activities for individuals of all abilities, ensuring everyone has access to the resources needed to stay active and engaged. The program offers a variety of equipment, including ice skates and helmets, “community bags” stocked with skipping ropes, balls, scoops, pylons, and hula hoops, as well as bikes, scooters and helmets in various sizes. Once the warmer weather arrives, additional equipment such as stand-up paddleboards, and adaptive canoe equipment will also become available. For university students facing the pressures of the upcoming exam period, perhaps the most appealing options are the outdoor lawn games. The collection includes spike ball, bocce ball, washer toss, horseshoes, and bean bag toss – perfect for relieving stress and enjoying some fresh air between study sessions.

Antigonish and surrounding areas are also home to many beautiful hiking and biking trails. Just a 15-minute walk from campus is the Antigonish Landing trail, a 4-km round-trip hike along an estuary of Antigonish Harbour, complete with two elevated platforms offering unobstructed views of ospreys, eagles, and ducks. For those willing to venture a bit farther, Beaver Mountain Provincial Park, Brown’s Mountain, and Fairmont Ridge Hiking Trail are all excellent spots to immerse yourself in nature and explore some of the area’s most scenic landscapes.

If you find yourself drawn to historic landmarks, the Cape George Lighthouse is a must-see. Situated 1000 feet above St. George’s Bay, it offers a panoramic view that stretches to Prince Edward Island, and Cape Breton on clear days. The Arisaig Lighthouse, overlooking the Northumberland Strait, provides a similar appeal.

Whether you are seeking outdoor adventure, a peaceful retreat in nature, or a chance to explore the must-see landmarks within the community, Antigonish and its surroundings offer a wealth of opportunities to suit all interests. With so much to explore right at your doorstep, it's clear that Antigonish is a place where residents and visitors can enjoy both the beauty of nature and the vibrancy of community life. So, get out, explore, and take full advantage of everything Antigonish has to offer—because the best experiences are just one adventure away!

For more information on the Equipment Loan Program, contact Antigonish County Recreation by email at recreation@antigonishcounty.ca, call (902) 863-1141 or visit their website at: https://recreation.antigonishcounty.ca/equipment-loan-accessibility-loan-program/

Second Annual Pucks for Purpose Men’s Game: A Winning Night for Hockey and Charity

With a packed crowd, the Pucks for Purpose Men’s Game on Friday night was electric. Full of Business and Art-Science students alike, alumni, and the StFX community, everyone was excited to support our players and the charities. It was fitting for the second annual Pucks for Purpose Men’s Game. As we walked to the Keating Center, a line wrapped around the side of the building, and the arena filled up fast. But before the game could start, there were many important announcements to share.

First, the big one: last year, Pucks for Purpose raised over $55,000. This year, with the addition of a women’s game and even more publicity, they have exceeded their goal of doubling the money raised. With $130,000 for the Canadian Cancer Society and motionball for Special Olympics, the Pucks for Purpose Classic was a complete success. Now, with many of the executive team members who created this event graduating, it was an even sweeter victory to see their creation be such a success.

As a fan, both events, the women's and men’s games, are exciting to watch. Why? Because even during the periods, there are events and prizes to be won. The buzzer will go, and challenges like sliding an Oreo into your mouth without using your hands, or guessing which briefcase has the money, are only a couple of the ways fans are involved. And of course, one could not forget the big Shoot-to-Win a Subaru! With a seemingly impossible task, I still held my breath as the puck slid toward the net. Even though it was not a win, seeing the Subaru drive on the ice was cool. It is no wonder that the game was sold out with the amount of money that was to be won! Or the Shoot-to-Win competition hosted by the Business school, which led to $300 being won! The fun never stopped. One section in the stands even won hot dogs. No matter what, the event was fun both on and off the ice.

But on the ice, the game was thrilling. Business took the lead, but Art-Sci did not give up. With amazing saves from Brandon Cole and incredible goals from Nate Supryka, Art-Sci was a definite underdog. However, Business stood strong and took home the win, 7-3. Both teams raised a large amount of money themselves: Business with over $29,083 and Art-Sci with over $27,057. The game is the base of the event, and every ticket purchased to watch went toward that grand total. I will say, as a biased Art-Sci student, that Art-Sci filled up most of the crowd, but it was the combined effort of the StFX community that showed up and made the game what it was.

As the next generation of Pucks for Purpose carries on the tradition, I am excited to see what we can raise next year. StFX shows up for charity, for hockey, and for those who need help. Pucks for Purpose was a success that I cannot wait to see again. 

Interview with Graduating Athletic Therapist Kylie Barton

The end of the school year is a time for reflection, a chance for students to look back upon the moments that defined their university experience. For fourth-year students, this is particularly true as they consider how their time at StFX has shaped them and what lies ahead. With many athletic seasons coming to a close around this time, players, coaches and support staff have a similar opportunity to reflect on the highs and lows of the year.

Kylie Barton, a fourth-year Honours Human Kinetics student, has been an athletic therapist for the women’s and men’s hockey teams over the past two years. As she prepares to graduate, she has shared her experiences working with the X-Men this year, the challenges of the role, and what she will take with her from her time on the bench.

“It was a season full of ups and downs,” she explained. “We had a rocky start, especially facing teams like UNB and Moncton.” With ten new players on the roster, the team faced an adjustment period, but as the season progressed, everything started to fall into place. “Once we found our rhythm, we had a great run.” Injuries were another challenge, but the team’s commitment to recovery made a significant difference. “The guys were really committed to their rehab and honest about what they were feeling,” Barton shared. “Even if someone had a tough injury, they still showed up to the rink. It’s a close-knit team, and they really lift each other up.”

The strong team dynamic extended to Barton herself. As one of the only women travelling with the team, she acknowledged the potential difficulties of finding her place but expressed appreciation for the support she received. “It can be tough being the only girl on a weekend road trip, but the guys always made sure I felt comfortable and looked out for me.” Some of her favourite memories with the team have been during long bus rides and high-pressure playoff games. “After games in PEI, we always played Mafia on the bus, that’s something I’ll never forget.” Last year’s marathon playoff game was another standout moment. “Four overtimes. I was running around trying to help everyone. The coach even had me go on the ice to stall for time. And we won! It was unreal.”

With graduation approaching, she shared how the reality of leaving has begun to set in. “I’m sad. Like, really sad,” she admitted. “This has been such a great team to work with, and I didn’t want it to end.” Her role as an athletic therapist became a defining part of her university experience. “It’s been huge. You do have to sacrifice a bit of your social life, but it’s worth it.”

When asked to give advice to the next person stepping into her role, she said to make the most of it. “Enjoy it. It goes by so fast. One day you’re working your last game, and suddenly you’re wondering what’s next.” Even on the long days at the rink, she encourages them to soak it all in. “There’s nothing else like it.” As she moves on to her next chapter in Hamilton to study osteopathy, she will bring with her the relationships, lessons, and memories that made her time at StFX and with the X-Men so special.

First-Ever Pucks for Purpose Women's Game: Arts-Sci Claims Victory Over Business

With the success of the inaugural Pucks for Purpose game, raising $55,000 for the Canadian Cancer Society and Motionball for Special Olympics, it is no surprise that the organizers have expanded their efforts this year. The first-ever women’s game was held on March 19th at 7 pm, where the Arts-Science team, led by Kylie Barton, faced off against the Business team, captained by Lindsay Gorman. After Business’ blowout victory last year, anticipation was high for both the men's and women’s matchups to see if Arts-Sci could reclaim the trophy.

The game started off slow, with neither team scoring in the first period. However, early in the second, Arts-Sci broke the deadlock, quickly following up with another goal that shifted the momentum in their favour. Despite the setback, Business remained determined and fought hard, getting on the scoreboard in the third period. But Arts-Sci maintained control, closing out the game with a goal in the last few minutes of play, securing a decisive 5- 1 victory.

There was plenty of intermission entertainment to keep the crowd engaged, including a shoot-to-win contest that gave one lucky fan a chance to win a Seadoo, as well as a relay race featuring two teams in inflatable cow costumes. Adding to the excitement, the Stanley Cup was on display for fans to see up close and take pictures with. Free Cool Ranch Doritos and a well-stocked bar added to the night’s success, making it a great way for students to spend their Wednesday evening.

Pucks for Purpose is so successful because it combines all the things StFX students love: hockey, having fun and giving back to the community. Knowing that taking a study break to watch the game contributes to meaningful causes like cancer research and motionball makes the time spent all the more rewarding. Pucks for Purpose is quickly becoming a beloved tradition at StFX, one that is sure to continue for years to come.

X-Women AUS Hockey Champions: Resilience on Ice

On Wednesday, March 12th, the Keating Centre was electric as the X-Women took home the title of AUS Conference Champions! It was a sold-out arena, filled to the brim with jumping students in support of our X-Women. Father Stan and Andy Hakin were among the crowd as we rose to our feet to witness Kamdyn Switzer (StFX Female Athlete of the Week) score the game-winning goal, and when the buzzer sounded, the fans went mad.

The final game, played on StFX home ice, garnered the X-Women’s home team spirit, …but it was resilience that brought them the win. It was not an easy path to get to the final match. With nine games in thirteen days and an incredible amount of over-time wins, the X-Women pushed through to earn their victory. According to X-Women’s Head Coach, Ben Berthiaume, a few days after the final minute of play, “They would not be denied this year; it was what they wanted”. In an interview with Ben at the Keating Café, he mentioned the importance and the impact of the StFX and Antigonish community, and its support of the girls both on and off the ice. As women’s sports, especially hockey, have begun to get the recognition they deserve, it is an even sweeter victory, when the school and local community support was a vital force behind the X-Women, and all sports here at X.

The Oxford Dictionary defines resilience as: “ the capacity to withstand or to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness. Each of the X-Women exhibited this trait as they hit the ice for a tough five-game series against St. Thomas and broke the record for the longest AUS women’s hockey game with over one hundred and thirty minutes on the ice. That’s four hours and forty-four minutes real time! The victory was arguably a turning point for the X-Women, which they fought, and won. With five over-time periods, hockey is no longer physical skill and stamina alone; it becomes a mental game. The X-Women were up to the task – athletes in mind body and soul. Sitting in the stands, there was nothing sweeter than the red glow of the buzzer, lit up after nearly four hours of hockey. But the overtime did not end with St. Thomas. It continued in game one against New Brunswick with two more overtime periods in which the X-Women once again conquered the opposition.

Here at StFX, our sports are central to the crucible that makes us Xaverian. This spring, the combination of unyielding support from the community, and the resilient character of each of our X-Women, including players, goalies, and Coach Staff, fueled their season to a title win. As women’s hockey continues to rise, there was nothing more meaningful than an arena filled to capacity with screaming fans as the X-Women took home the trophy on their final night on StFX home ice for the 2024-25 season. I have no doubt that as they continue to the U Sports Championship in Waterloo, this March, they will continue to hear the StFX crowd, and once again, bring to bear the reliance and strength that brought them to the level of champions.

Blue and White Night: A Celebration of Athletic Pride & Community Support

Join the StFX Athletics community at Oak Manor this Thursday, March 13th, for a night of fun, community, and giving back with the highly anticipated ‘Blue and White Night’.

This Thursday, Oak Manor will host an unforgettable event aimed at uniting the StFX Athletics community, raising funds for the Athletic Therapy department, and providing a much-needed break for student-athletes as they approach the end of the semester.

This evening will feature an exciting line-up of entertainment, kicking off at 7 pm with musical bingo hosted by local comedian Brad Ball, followed by live music from Desmond Thomas at 9 pm. Whether you’re an athlete, a supporter, or simply looking to unwind, the evening promises something for everyone. Not only will the night be filled with entertainment, but attendees can also take part in raffles and enjoy delicious baked goods from local baker Sam Diltz, keeper for the StFX men’s soccer team.

Event coordinator Katie Yanicki states, “Our primary goal for this event is to foster connections between club and varsity athletes while providing a fun-packed evening in support of the athletic therapy department of StFX Athletics. With the Athletic Therapy clinic recently extending its services to club athletes, we see this as an opportunity for all athletes at StFX to give back to those who help them perform and recover throughout the year”.

This event will also feature a raffle, with prizes generously donated by local businesses such as Cleve’s Source for Sports, Canadian Tire, SportChek, and Oak Manor by Burnside. The diverse crowd of athletes and their supporters coming together in the spirit of StFX pride offers the chance to raise significant funds, that will go towards the continuation of services offered by the athletic therapy department.

The coordinators of this event invite all attendees to wear blue and white in support of StFX and its athletics, to unite the athletics community and cultivate a strong sense of school spirit throughout the evening. ‘Blue and White Night’ is more than just a fundraiser—it’s an opportunity to connect, celebrate, and give back. Whether you are a varsity athlete, club athlete, or an enthusiastic supporter, your presence will help make the night a success—don’t miss your opportunity to be part of an unforgettable evening.

For more information visit the event page on Instagram @blueandwhitenight2025.

Where: Oak Manor

When: Thursday, March 13 (7-11 pm)

$5 entry fee: Cash and e-transfer accepted

Breaking Free from the Scroll: Time to Choose You

How often have you heard “Put your phone down”, or “Stop scrolling”? We Gen Zers, the technology generation, have had to defend our capability to use phones and social media responsibly for as long as we can remember. Those who struggle to use Siri or Alexa or emoji text have consistently preached about its dangers and ill effects. Seems ironic. And yet, we are coming to understand that there is a valid warning. The correlation between excess use and its adverse effect on our mental health, our sleep, and our ability to let our mind be still is becoming better understood. But when did you ever believe something, you haven’t experienced yourself? With recent events and discussions in the United States and the threat of a ban on TikTok, it got me thinking. What would happen if students stopped using these 15-second scrolling apps? Would our mental health improve? Would we die of boredom in the 10 seconds between conversations? What else would happen…better and worse?

I, like many of my friends here at StFX, use TikTok or Instagram reels often, as a sort of zone-out time, a time to disassociate, or to even relax before bed. Now, as many of us are well aware, a quick break to check can sometimes turn into a 2-hour ‘doomscroll’. But how does this intake of passive information and media really affect a person? Personally, I had no honest clue of the impact beyond the time that my setting app told me I was spending on the scroll. (And that was a surprise!) Apparently, I spend about four hours a day on social media, and about one of those four hours on TikTok. So, I decided to run a self-study. I was inspired by one of my friends, Parker (a first-year student here at StFX), who had deleted Instagram off her phone, simply because she recognized the excessive time she was devoting to the app.

Day One: I deleted TikTok. Gone was the constant influx of videos, the shared videos from friends and the ever-changing trends. I’ll admit, the second I deleted it, I fully regretted it. But how could I be sure there were benefits to living off TikTok if I hadn’t tried it? It was one small thing - surely, I could survive. After living TikTok-FREE for two weeks, here are the rewards that filled the scroll space:

1. Procrastination: Oh, I still procrastinate! But did you know that here at StFX, the resources are abundant in helping students to tackle this issue? We all have received the emails from Student Services. Flourish@X is a proactive mental health program and only one of many wellness resources that the school offers out of Bloomfield to help you manage time and pressure as part of your academic and personal life. I was aware I regularly faced the consequences of putting off my work but did taking a small break from scrolling really make a difference? Wouldn’t I find another task to procrastinate further? Or, would the absence of the online distraction help solve the issue? Maybe not a surprise, both situations applied. My procrastination was still there, but with less force. My unconscious use of time scrolling for hours morphed away from my phone, I found myself looking to the people around me. My friends and the activities offered weekly at Bloomfield and around campus were now more attractive. I admit, I still sit down for a nightly show, but there is one definite change. I am now consciously aware of my time. My time is my own and not lost to the repeated swipe of my finger.

2. Sleep: It was expected, yet far more noticeable than I could have dreamt (pun intended). There was a marked change in the quality of my sleep. One of the most important aspects of our health and well-being, especially for students whose brains are still developing, is our rest. Without access to my nightly routine of picking up my phone before sleep, and flipping till my eyes began to shut, I found myself simply going to bed. The best part? I didn’t spend an extra hour looking at the ceiling before finally falling into a light slumber. I realized that this routine was not healthy. Like you, I was aware of the effect blue light has on our brains. But that understanding alone was not enough for me to put an end to it. After asking around to classmates and friends, similar habits were common. For the majority of students, the last thing they look at before going to bed is their phone. Not a book, or a craft, but their device. When we understand the effect our sleep has on the quality of our days, our ability to learn, and to create, it’s a wonder that we, as students, do not try to give ourselves a break from the blue light.

After about two weeks, and the passing news of TikTok’s ban, and un-ban, I realized that it really isn’t a necessity in my life. Those hours spent TikToking were not defining moments of my day. Instead, the moments spent staying on top of my work, going out with my friends, supporting each other in our respective sports, or watching them in a play, ...this is how I wanted to spend my time. Our StFX student lives are constantly filled with activity, and time is scarce. I expect it’s a practice for life and careers ahead. Why wouldn’t we ditch the scrolling and make the most of it?

But why are we choosing to scroll over our time with friends, learning and sleeping? A fuller study is needed here. But if you can’t say no to the scroll, for even a little bit, check out the great resources and people at Bloomfield to gain control of what you want for your time. As a student here at StFX, where we have access to so many resources for success, it can be hard to step out and actually help ourselves. If there was one thing that this little study taught me, it’s that my time is important to me. I will scroll again, I know it, but I want to be my best self at work, with friends, family and fun. Practice what you want. If you want more health and wellness in your life, take a little more time for yourself. Find out what awesome things might fill the space. You deserve it.

Why Every Student Should Try Open Swim

Having been a lifeguard for most of the summers of my life, I have grown familiar with the regular happenings at a pool. One thing that’s common at almost every pool is open swim. I was surprised when one of my housemates told me they had never heard of open swim and didn’t know what it was. For anyone else who might’ve seen it listed on the pool schedule but isn’t sure what it means, let me explain. Open swim, unlike lane swimming, does not require a swimmer to stay in their section of the pool swimming laps. During this time, most of the lane dividers are removed, and floaties, toys, and other recreational items are introduced. For that hour, swimmers can float around, play, or just do whatever they feel like in the water. While open swim is often directed towards children and families, I have learned it is a great opportunity for students as well. Even though I’m a strong swimmer, lane swimming makes me nervous. I’m always worried about getting in the way of the more experienced swimmers who take it seriously. On top of that, I don’t have any of my proper swim gear from my lifeguarding days as it’s all back at home. Luckily, neither of these things are an issue during open swim. All you need is a bathing suit, some deck shoes, and a towel and you’re ready to go!

My friends and I attended our first open swim towards the end of exam season last semester. Not only was it a great study break, but I felt much calmer heading back to work. And it wasn’t just a coincidence. Swimming for as little as 20 minutes has been shown to improve mood, sleep, and anxiety. This is something that all students can benefit from, especially during midterms, which can be an incredibly stressful time. Aside from mental benefits, swimming is great exercise; it's good for muscle building and cardiovascular health. Since it’s a full-body workout, you can be sure that your entire body is getting the benefits of the exercise. If you aren’t comfortable going to the gym or are just trying to get into exercising, swimming is a great way to do it. More than its health benefits, one of the best parts of swimming is going to the new sauna to warm up afterwards! I had never used the pool at St. FX prior to this year and I believe I have been missing out.

Open swim takes place on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 7-8pm, and Saturdays and Sundays from 1-3pm. You can also check out the Alumni Aquatic Centre website for more information regarding aquatics, including aquafit and lane swims.

86 U SPORTS Academic All-Canadians for StFX Athletics

On the morning of January 14th, StFX Athletics hosted its annual celebratory breakfast to honour the numerous student-athletes who received Academic All-Canadian status during the 2023-24 school year. To be named an Academic All-Canadian the individual must have achieved an 80% average or above while consuming a year of U SPORTS eligibility.

This year StFX Athletics honoured a total of 86 Academic All-Canadians, increasing from the previous year’s 82 student-athletes. Of the 86 recognized; forty-three were first-time recipients, sixteen were second-time recipients, thirteen received the honour for the third time, and twelve student-athletes were honoured for their fourth time. Most outstanding, however, were X-Women Soccer players Christina Gentile and Amanda Smith who became five-time USports Academic All-Canadians! X-Women Soccer demonstrated their academic commitment with 73% of their team earning the distinction, the highest of any team in athletics. X-Women Basketball followed in a close second, with 60% of their team named Academic All-Canadians. Leo MacPherson, Athletic Director for StFX Athletics, presented this year’s Athletic Director’s Awards for academic achievement, which are presented each year at the breakfast to the male and female student-athletes who achieve the highest average. This year, the top male academic was presented to Rogan Betts on X-Men Basketball, a third-year BBA student from St. John’s, Newfoundland. The top female academic was presented to Ava Elgood on X-Women Soccer who is from Almonte, Ontario and in her second year of human kinetics.

Being honoured with Academic All-Canadian status is a tribute to the hard work of these athletes day in and day out as they strive to achieve excellence both in competition and in the classroom. First-year education student Kendra McDonell on X-Women rugby states, “I am incredibly proud to have been recognized for this achievement. Student-athletes put in work all year round, as much as we do on the field, it’s just as important to work hard in the classroom”. These athletes will continue their commitment to upholding academic excellence as they finish out the 2024-25 academic year, striving to earn the distinction of Academic All-Canadian once again.

The complete list of 2023-24 StFX Academic All-Canadians can be found at: https://www.goxgo.ca/general/2024-25/releases/20250110mzur6o

Oliver Smith: A Legacy to Remember

On November 9th, X-Men hockey and the community of Antigonish gathered at the Charles V. Keating Centre arena for the fifth annual Oliver Smith Memorial Hockey Game, in support of Ewing’s sarcoma. 

In February of 2017, Oliver Smith, a grade six student at St. Andrew Junior School and proud member of the Antigonish Bulldogs, was diagnosed with stage four Ewing’s sarcoma. Ewing’s is an aggressive form of cancer affecting bone and soft tissue that is most often developed in those between the ages of 10 and 20. Oliver was an endeared member of not only the Antigonish community but also StFX Athletics, playing an integral role in the X-Men hockey legacy of 2019. 

Oliver’s father, Bryan Smith, speaks to Oliver’s connection with StFX Athletics stating, “Oliver read the game speeches for the X-Men hockey team in 2019, the year that he passed away”. Smith elaborated, “Oliver, the first game of the playoffs, went to give them an OllieBot to kind of wish them well and they asked him to read the lineup. They won that game and then asked him to come back every other game and they kept winning—it got them to nationals and Oliver kept getting sicker and sicker”. By the time the X-Men reached the end of playoffs, Oliver had become a part of the team, but it didn’t end there, “my wife flew [Oliver] out to Lethbridge, and he showed up to nationals with them, surprising the team. He ended up doing speeches at those games, he was on SportsNet—they came into the dressing rooms and did it. They lost the semi-final game and then they played for bronze the next day’’. The X-men ended up winning the bronze medal in the final season which Oliver would be with us to witness. 

The OllieBot campaign was started in 2017 by Oliver and his father Bryan, who recounts the project originating while filling the time Oliver would have otherwise occupied with sport. After receiving positive interest and support from family friends, Smith says they thought ‘‘Hey, we could do this as a fundraiser and give back to Ewing’s’’. Smith remarks on the initial success of the

OllieBot campaign as “ridiculous”, “I think from [November 2017] until the day before Christmas we made 273 … it was a steady stream of people coming to the house, handing money”. Since November of 2017 when it all started, the family has produced and distributed over 6,000 OllieBots. 

Since 2019, in partnership with StFX Athletics and X-Men hockey, the Smith family has held an annual Oliver Smith Memorial hockey game, branded with the motto ‘Be the Hardest Worker’. ‘Be the Hardest Worker’ was something reinforced to Oliver and his siblings from a young age by parents Shauna and Bryan and was carried across all aspects of their lives. Bryan emphasized how well Oliver was able to translate what it meant to work hard in school and hockey, and then apply it to the hardships of his treatment.

The memorial game originally started as a business project for X-Women hockey player Santana Gravelle, with the first game in 2019, raising $8,000. The campaign was then handed over to the Smith family and has since raised over $100,000 for the Ewing’s Cancer Foundation of Canada Endowment Fund at the Toronto Sick Kids Hospital, as well as supporting families in the community whose children are battling cancer. 

Healthy Habits for Exam Time

As November brings cooler weather, the dreaded cold and flu season is bound to follow closely behind. And with exam season just around the corner, students seek to avoid a cough, runny nose, or worse, limiting their performance on finals. But what is it about the colder weather that makes us so susceptible to sickness? We’ve all heard that drying our hair before going outside and drinking orange juice can help prevent us from getting a cold, but do those things actually help? I have compiled some helpful tips and information on how to avoid getting sick ahead of exams and to keep ourselves healthy for the holiday season.

One of the more interesting contributing factors to our susceptibility to illness during the winter months is a lack of vitamin D. With daylight savings time and the sun sitting lower in the sky, our bodies don’t receive nearly as much vitamin D as during the summer months. Several studies conducted by the Department of Emergency Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital have identified a positive relationship between vitamin D deficiency and acute upper respiratory illness. Essentially, low levels of vitamin D make an individual more susceptible to cold and flu symptoms. A paper written by Dr. Cynthia Aranow also highlights the role of vitamin D in the immune system. Immune cells have vitamin D receptors, which means they can regulate the immune response to where it is needed in the body. A lack of vitamin D reduces the function of these receptors, making the body more susceptible to infection. So, by ensuring you’re getting enough vitamin D through supplements or even sunshine tea, you can prevent yourself from getting sick.

Another important factor that helps to support the immune system is getting enough sleep. Dr. Yvonne Chu, a sleep medicine specialist, emphasized the relationship between poor sleep and susceptibility to illness. “Studies have shown,” says Dr. Chu, “that those who chronically get less than seven hours of sleep a night are three times as likely to develop the common cold compared to those who routinely get eight hours or more of sleep.” The events of November and December, including Catalina Wine Night and X-Ring, on top of exams, mean people are staying up late and getting up early to study (or at least, intend to). While social life and academic achievement are important, it is important not to neglect sleep to make up for lost time. Put down your phone and get that extra half hour of sleep at bedtime, or consider leaving Wing Night before the last call - your immune system will thank you for it!

Lastly, while going outside with wet hair or in shorts won’t specifically get you sick, being cold certainly doesn’t help. A study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology showed that the body’s immune response in the nose is weakened in lower temperatures. When the internal temperature of the nose drops by just a few degrees, the release of antiviral particles called EVs decreases, making it easier for viruses to infect the body’s cells. By keeping the body and the face warm, you help maintain a strong immune response. That’s why, instead of wearing a skirt to the bar, think about putting on a pair of sweatpants until you arrive or wear a scarf on your way to class. By staying warm, you help ensure that your body functions optimally, boosting its ability to fight off viruses and stay healthy.

There are several other important steps you can take to prevent illness, like staying hydrated, eating well, and exercising regularly. These tips won’t definitely prevent you from getting a cold, but by properly taking care of yourself, you’re giving your body the best possible chance to defend itself from viruses and bacterial infections. Remember to prioritize your health as the semester comes to an end for your benefit and the benefit of those around you.

Serving Inclusivity: Volleyball Society Welcomes All

Three days a week, the gym doors are open at Saputo Centre for any to enter and play a sport that welcomes all: Volleyball. There are many sport societies here at X, ranging from the Rowing Society to the Equestrian Society, but the Volleyball Society sets itself apart. There are no restrictions! You don’t have to play competitively or need to sign up. Anyone can play. No matter your level, skill, or stature, you are welcome on the court.

At StFX, sports are everywhere. We have varsity teams, X-Rec programs, and pick-up sports like flag football among students in the parking lot or on the lawn. But not everyone can afford to pay a membership, and some may not want the commitment required to join a team. The Volleyball Society is the perfect balance, a drop-in system with no payment needed. Going alone can be hard, though, and most of the time, finding friends who have like-minded interests is no easy task. From the very first day, the Society has created a welcoming atmosphere. Each person there wants to play, and while it is competitive, the score isn’t kept. It’s about working together and being a team. A positive attitude is the only thing you need to bring. The Society members set up the courts, balls and nets provided. All the members help in creating this environment: “It’s super easy to pop in… All skill levels welcome!” says President Piper Bullivant, who can be found on the court during the week. All one has to do is show up and play!

Often, classes, studying, and exams get in the way of playing sports. But the Volleyball Society plays from 9:30-11:30 pm on Mondays and Tuesdays. It’s the perfect end to your workday, allowing for the release of some endorphins before going to sleep. On Sundays, from 1-3 pm, there is another set for weekend fun, a great reason to get out of bed and get the blood flowing before starting the week. It’s not a commitment, and it’s free: the perfect combo for any student.

But the real reason that the Society is special is that it’s a social sport and movement for everyone. There are players who have played through high school but stopped when they came to university. There are others, like myself, who have never received a ball in their entire life. The beauty of it all? It doesn’t matter. The Society divides the teams by numbering you off, which allows a fair shot for everyone. No one has more time than another, and you play all positions. One regular Eli Lokonyen, when asked about the society, said, “It helps me elevate my skills, and from the beginning till now, I’ve significantly improved.” He a first year and has made friends through the Society as well. Volleyball is one of those sports in which anyone can participate, and the Society has made sure that this sport is accessible to everyone.

University is the perfect time to try new things, and best of all a sport. Whether it’s totally new or you just want to be back on the court again, there is a place for you. The Volleyball Society has created an inclusive environment for everyone and anyone to play. Moving to get your blood flowing and playing sports takes real motivation and determination, especially as the winter approaches. With student-lead opportunities like the Volleyball Society offers, there’s a healthy environment ready and waiting for students to work their bodies and their brains. The Volleyball Society, with its open doors at the Saputo Centre, serves up exactly what it means to be part of the student body at X.