Hi, my name is Clarence and I am currently in U1 Physical Education. Since the very beginning of my school years, I have always had a love for sports. I started doing karate at seven years old on the weekends, 12 years later I am teaching it to kindergarden kids. I also have practiced jiu-jitsu for about three years. Therefore, I participated in several provincial competitions in karate as well as MMA-like amicable competitions within my own karate school. Since martial arts weren’t enough, I did cross-country in high school, cheerleading in CEGEP, and stunt training classes. I regularly train at fitness and a gymnastics centers. I also like to do yoga sessions and parkour runs. I chose this particular field of study because I always wanted to do a job that would keep me in great shape. I really wish everyone could have that chance because your health is the most precious thing you should worry about. As long as I can remember, I have always seen physical education teachers and trainers as role models. I wish I can be the same inspiration to other people and help them make positive changes in their lives.
One of the most important things for me is not to get beat down, so here is my favorite quote, because you can always make the best of a bad situation. “Some people learn to lose. Others lose and learn.” -Georges St-Pierre
One of the most important things for me is not to get beat down, so here is my favorite quote, because you can always make the best of a bad situation. “Some people learn to lose. Others lose and learn.” -Georges St-Pierre
Hello, I am Emilie a U2 Kinesiology student. I was definitely not the stereotypical child back in the day. Growing up I was a competitive figure skating, dancer and gymnast. In high school, I entered a professional dance school with the dream of becoming a ballerina for the rest of my life. At the end of high school I had a sudden change of heart and decided that I would change paths, so I entered Montreal's National Circus School where I ended up studying Contortion and Aerial Silks. Unfortunately, a year later I got seriously injured and made the decision to enter a "normal" school. I am now studying Kinesiology because I can't imagine a life without the sports, which made me who I am now, and I want to promote physical activity to groups of people that may not have had the same opportunities growing up. I truly believe that everyone can find so much happiness through physical activity or sports and that everyone should have an equal chance to experience it.
Howdy all. My name is Patrick Vellner and I am currently in my last year at McGill finishing up my honours degree in Kinesiology. I have a long and varied athletic background in both individual and team sports. I played Lacrosse and rugby for years but spent most of my time training as an elite Mens Artistic Gymnast. Now I'm retired and am focusing my competitive and athletic energy to CrossFit where I compete nationally and coach. After getting my degree, I'm going to pursue a career in Chiropractic and try to help others get back on their feet and get the most out of their bodies. Moving forward I hope to help inspire others to be fit and get the most out of their lives through active living.
"You've got what it takes, but it will take everything you've got"
"You've got what it takes, but it will take everything you've got"
Dance is my passion. I started off in gymnastics, which I really enjoyed but the group dances stood out in particular. This led to a transition of paths, as I went to an educational dance institution (JSB) in Iceland for professional dancers.The dance classes I took were Jazz, Ballet, Contemporary, choreography and improvisation.
In year 2009 I went to Rosella Hightower, a very respected dance institution in France close to Cannes during summer. This was an amazing experience, I learned a lot from very talented dancers and students, even from a 9 year old ballet dancer in my class that did extraordinary work on point.
In year 2011, I competed with my dance group in the competition called Grand Prix, which is an International Dance competition held every year in Bologna. We got a golden trophy for Jazz.
I moved to Shanghai 2012 and took dance classes in a dance studio called Jazz du funk. The dance classes I took were Ballet, Jazz and Contemporary. The Jazz classes where sometimes a fusion with some Tai Chi movements. Moreover, throughout the year I did cheerleading for the basketball team in high school. Furthermore, I was dance teacher and choreographed dances for 2 school
productions in my school. Subsequently, over the summer I came home to Iceland and was an assistant dance teacher in modern dance for kids 8-10 years old.
Afterwards, I moved to Hong Kong and took dance classes in a dance studio called Studiodanz, which is compromised of professional dancers and choreographers from all over the world.
In addition, I did ballroom dancing. Mainly Cha Cha, Jive and Rumba from 9-13 years old. Education Background I’m in year 1 Kinesiology. My goal is to specialize in athletic injuries, for dancers in particular. Therefore, I am aiming to get into Sports Medicine or physiotherapy. I would love to become a dance teacher on the side, especially to teach Contemporary. The positive impact I would like to have towards the public health would be to promote mobility and functional ability for the general public, athletes in particular.
“You've gotta dance like there's nobody watching, Love like you'll never be hurt, Sing like there's nobody listening, And live like it's heaven on earth.”
- William W.Purkey
In year 2009 I went to Rosella Hightower, a very respected dance institution in France close to Cannes during summer. This was an amazing experience, I learned a lot from very talented dancers and students, even from a 9 year old ballet dancer in my class that did extraordinary work on point.
In year 2011, I competed with my dance group in the competition called Grand Prix, which is an International Dance competition held every year in Bologna. We got a golden trophy for Jazz.
I moved to Shanghai 2012 and took dance classes in a dance studio called Jazz du funk. The dance classes I took were Ballet, Jazz and Contemporary. The Jazz classes where sometimes a fusion with some Tai Chi movements. Moreover, throughout the year I did cheerleading for the basketball team in high school. Furthermore, I was dance teacher and choreographed dances for 2 school
productions in my school. Subsequently, over the summer I came home to Iceland and was an assistant dance teacher in modern dance for kids 8-10 years old.
Afterwards, I moved to Hong Kong and took dance classes in a dance studio called Studiodanz, which is compromised of professional dancers and choreographers from all over the world.
In addition, I did ballroom dancing. Mainly Cha Cha, Jive and Rumba from 9-13 years old. Education Background I’m in year 1 Kinesiology. My goal is to specialize in athletic injuries, for dancers in particular. Therefore, I am aiming to get into Sports Medicine or physiotherapy. I would love to become a dance teacher on the side, especially to teach Contemporary. The positive impact I would like to have towards the public health would be to promote mobility and functional ability for the general public, athletes in particular.
“You've gotta dance like there's nobody watching, Love like you'll never be hurt, Sing like there's nobody listening, And live like it's heaven on earth.”
- William W.Purkey
Hi! My name is Mitchell Cuillerier, most people call me Spooner. I am currently in my second year of my physical and health education degree at McGill. My goal in as an future educator is to simply allow my students to access their true potential in fitness and sports. Sports, competition, and fitness have been an outlet for me since I was young and I believe that everyone deserves an equal opportunity to be a part of of a team, individual sport, or simply living a healthy and active lifestyle. I am especially interested in adapting physical education for all individuals and providing students with a way to get rid of any excess energy to help them succeed in the classroom setting. My sports background includes many team sports such as football and soccer but my main passion is rugby. I am currently playing prop forward and am the captain of the McGill Redmen Varsity rugby team. I was awarded the Most Valuable Player of the 2013 season and have currently won 2 RSEQ championship banners with the team! Playing a varsity sport for McGill is a huge commitment but I love the team atmosphere and wouldn't change a thing about it. I am a very competitive person and look forward to competing in the 2015 Kin Games!
"I hated every minute of training, but I said, Dont quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion." - Muhammad Ali.
"I hated every minute of training, but I said, Dont quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion." - Muhammad Ali.
Hey! My name is Spencer Paveck, known by my teammates as ‘Biggs’. Always a multi-sport athlete, I grew up playing competitive hockey, soccer, golf and football. I eventually specialized in rugby and am currently a member of the provincial champion-McGill Redmen Rugby team.I’m in my last year at McGill, pursuing an Honours Kinesiology degree. I’m currently doing research in hockey biomechanics, specifically looking both at enhancing stick design and minimizing game-related concussions. Upon graduation, I aim to pursue a Master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering and eventually advance the design and functionality of traditional sports equipment.Overall, I just want to promote fitness and wellbeing, and for others to have the same quality of sport experiences as I have had. This is because I believe sports are an excellent outlet which help everyone develop as a person, friend and teammate; not to mention the physical and mental health benefits.
"You have to be able to center yourself, to let all of your emotions go. Don’t ever forget that you play with your soul as well as your body." - Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
"You have to be able to center yourself, to let all of your emotions go. Don’t ever forget that you play with your soul as well as your body." - Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Hey everyone! My name is Will Davidson and I am a U1 student studying Physical Education. Sports have been one of my passions growing up and they continue to be. I have played a number of different sports growing up such as football, soccer, golf and hockey, which is my favorite sport. I played competitive hockey at high levels for 13 years but was forced to stop after suffering two concussions in the same season. I attended a Sport-Etudes high school where I played hockey five days a week for 5 years. In grade 11, I played juvenile AAA for my high school. That year, my team won the RSEQ championship as well as the Dodge Cup. My goal as a physical educator will be to make sure that all individuals have an opportunity to live and healthy and active lifestyle. I also want to make sure that all individuals have the chance to participate in organized sports and extra curricular activities.
“If you’re trying to achieve, there will be roadblocks. I’ve had them; everybody has had them. But obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or walk around it.” - Michael Jordan
“If you’re trying to achieve, there will be roadblocks. I’ve had them; everybody has had them. But obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or walk around it.” - Michael Jordan
Hi there! My name is Zach Daunoravicius and let me start off by saying that I am beyond excited to be participating the 2015 Kin Games at UBC! I am currently in my 3rd year of Physical and Health Education and I am loving every minute of it! I grew up lucky enough to play organized soccer and take swimming lessons. In high school I continued these sports and took up volleyball which I went on to play in CEGEP at Champlain College Saint-Lambert. I am a strong believer in team sports for developing social skills among youth. Although I have a team sports background, I have recently become more interested in hiking and have fallen in love with skiing which I have been doing for the last 5 years. These experiences lead me to choose the career of a physical education teacher because I want to help the next generation develop a love for sport and a healthy active lifestyle. I am very dedicated to becoming the best physical educator I can be! I was awarded the Arthur Stanley Lamb Scholarship after my first year of study in 2012-2013 for my professional promise in the field. I hope that I can inspire the students that I will teach to try as many different sports and activities as possible and to take what they learn in my classroom and apply it in their everyday lives!
“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take” – Wayne Gretzky.
“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take” – Wayne Gretzky.
Good day! My name is John Justinich and I am currently completing my 4th year of Kinesiology. Athletics have always been a huge part of my life, and continue to be. I started out playing hockey at an early age, and continued competitively until high school where I pursued a variety of sports. I competed on high school rugby, basketball, volleyball, tennis, badminton and track and field teams. Previous teams I competed on had great success at the provincial level. I also competed on club basketball and volleyball teams throughout the duration of high school. Since the beginning of my undergrad, I have been focusing on school and chasing intramural championships in hockey, basketball and volleyball. In addition, I consistently enter a team into the very competitive Right to Play annual Dodgeball tournament (and win). When not competing at the intramural level, I can be found on occasion in the McGill fitness center. With my degree in Kinesiology, I would like to move towards the industry of athletics. My dream job would be to work for Nike but I am open to where my previous experiences and connections will take me on my career path. I would like to use my knowledge of fitness and health to motivate friends and family to maintain healthy, active lifestyles. One day it would be great to be part of a global health initiative promoting healthy lifestyles. I am very excited to participate in Kin games 2015 with such great people, in such an awesome location.
“ It’s all lightweight baby ” – THE Ronnie Coleman
“ It’s all lightweight baby ” – THE Ronnie Coleman
Hey Guys! My name is Holly Janna and I am in U2 in Physed. Sports have been my life ever since I can remember. I have been a part of many school teams as well as teams outside of school. In high school every year I would be apart of the soccer, basketball, track and field, tennis, flag football, and cross country teams. Outside of school I was apart of soccer, swimming, basketball, and waterpolo teams. In elementary school and high school I ended up winning athlete of the year! I have had my greatest success participating in high level soccer which will always be my favourite sport. I love trying new sports as well such as wakeboarding and slalom skiing! I have two younger brothers and they definitely keep me active playing other sports such as hockey, football, snowboarding, etc. Physical activity is my life! I aspire for a career in teaching Physical Education or even working for a major sports organization. I am really looking forward to being a part of the Kin Games of 2015 and getting to know everyone better!
Remember: "You miss 100% of the shots you don't take" -Wayne Gretzky
Remember: "You miss 100% of the shots you don't take" -Wayne Gretzky
Hi there, my name is Jessica Insogna. I’m in my last year of an Honours Kinesiology degree. Sports have always been a huge part of my life, both recreationally and competitively. My parents put me on the ski hill at age five and then I picked up the soccer cleats at age eight. I played soccer for the city of St Leonard for 10 years but that didn’t stop me from always playing any sport I could try or join. I represented my high school on five teams including soccer, volleyball, basketball, track, and flag football. After high school I focused more on fitness goals but I missed being on a team so much I joined synchronized swimming and Kin Games at McGill. I’ve always wanted to be an orthodontist but if I do decide to stay in the field of kinesiology, I would love to do a Masters in Public Health. Either way, I hope to inspire people to lead all-around healthy lifestyles.
“Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, other make it happen" Michael Jordan.
“Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, other make it happen" Michael Jordan.
Hi everyone! My name is Tash Salmers and I am currently a U2 in McGill's amazing Physical and Health Education program. I have always been involved in sports starting with soccer, as well as volleyball, basketball, flag football, lacrosse, and my most successful sport; hockey. Ever since my dad laced my feet up with skates i've never looked back. Fast forward a few years and I found my self winning Provincial Championships, being the only girl on the boys rep team, earning awards and letters on my sweaters, and most importantly making lifelong friendships. In high school my team won four LOSSA gold medals, as well as a bronze, silver and in my graduating year a gold medal at OFSAA. I continued playing rep hockey after I graduated and have played on intramural men and woman's teams at McGill as well as summer leagues back home in Ontario. Although my hockey career didn't take me to the Olympics or lead to a scholarship, I take away very important messages and values regarding leadership, commitment, sport, and physical education. As an educator, I plan on making a difference in the lives of my students, and giving them the opportunity to explore and enjoy themselves through physical activity and healthy lifestyle choices. My experiences have given me insights as an athlete and as a student and I plan to use these experiences to fuel my teaching approaches. Aside from athletics, I am also a part of McGill's Student Association for Physical Education and Kinesiology. I take great pride in our faculty and hope to make differences in the future of Physical Education and Health. I am very excited to meet new people at the 2015 Kin Games hosted by UBC, and to see what insights other schools across Canada have to offer regarding Physical Activity and Education.
"Your only limit is you."
"Your only limit is you."
Hey, I'm Kim! I'm currently a U2 Phys Ed student and have always loved sports! I grew up playing soccer and played for nearly 12 years until a knee injury finally forced me into early retirement. I was also a competitive ice skater for 10 years before I decided to give it up (still one of my biggest regrets!). I was also a sprinter, high jumper and a shot putter for my city's track and field team which got me to the Jeux de Montreal, at which I placed third in the 4x200 relay. In high school I decided to focus on touch football. I was on the team for a total of 4 years and in my last year was given the chance to be the defensive captain. I also wanted to take more of a leadership role and therefore decided to become the manager for the bantam boys basketball team for two years. As a child I was lucky enough to be a camper at the McGill Summer Sports Camp, which I attended for 11 years so basically I've at least tried every sport (from lacrosse and ball hockey to gaga ball and gymnastics, I've done them all!). This summer marked the third year that I was able to return as a counselor. Growing up at the camp was such a joy so returning as a counselor was amazing! Working with children has always been a passion and hopefully I can make a difference within the phys ed community. I'm so stoked for the Kin Games this year in BC and I can't wait to meet other students with just as much passion for Phys Ed/Kin!
"I've missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I've been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I've failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed."
- Michael Jordan
"I've missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I've been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I've failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed."
- Michael Jordan
Hi my name is Anna Pearson and I’m in my fourth year of Kinesiology with a concentration in Psychology. I’m currently doing research in Exercise Psychology, as well as working as a Student Therapist for the Men’s Varsity Soccer Team.
Dance is where it all began for me. I started Ballet at the age of three and have been addicted ever since! I trained with a professional Ballet School in my hometown of Ottawa, Ontario taking classes in Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Character and Spanish dance. Whether it be performing or teaching, I originally set out with the plan to incorporate my passion for Ballet and my future career. At 13 years old, I was fortunate enough to train and attend the Royal Winnipeg Professional Ballet School for an entire summer where I trained with world-renown dance teachers and choreographers. My experience in Winnipeg taught me a great deal about myself and exposed me to the high level of discipline needed in order to train in such an intensive sport. A few years later, I was lucky enough to perform with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet Company in the Nutcracker and the National Ballet School of Canada in Romeo and Juliet. When university came around, I took a step back from my ballet-or-nothing lifestyle due to chronic injuries and the pressure associated with being a “ballerina.” Since then, I have focused my time and energy into cross-country running, with the goal of running a half marathon in the upcoming year.
Overall, I’m interested in promoting fitness with a focus on the mental health obstacles athletes experience along the way. I believe it is imperative that athletes understand the need for a healthy lifestyle in relation to sports training. Through public education, I hope to work with individuals to overcome matters related to negative body image, mental health disorders (depression, anxiety) and injury recovery. I may be headed in the sports psychology route, but I’m not entirely positive at this point!
“The more the body suffers, the more the spirit flowers.”
Dance is where it all began for me. I started Ballet at the age of three and have been addicted ever since! I trained with a professional Ballet School in my hometown of Ottawa, Ontario taking classes in Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Character and Spanish dance. Whether it be performing or teaching, I originally set out with the plan to incorporate my passion for Ballet and my future career. At 13 years old, I was fortunate enough to train and attend the Royal Winnipeg Professional Ballet School for an entire summer where I trained with world-renown dance teachers and choreographers. My experience in Winnipeg taught me a great deal about myself and exposed me to the high level of discipline needed in order to train in such an intensive sport. A few years later, I was lucky enough to perform with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet Company in the Nutcracker and the National Ballet School of Canada in Romeo and Juliet. When university came around, I took a step back from my ballet-or-nothing lifestyle due to chronic injuries and the pressure associated with being a “ballerina.” Since then, I have focused my time and energy into cross-country running, with the goal of running a half marathon in the upcoming year.
Overall, I’m interested in promoting fitness with a focus on the mental health obstacles athletes experience along the way. I believe it is imperative that athletes understand the need for a healthy lifestyle in relation to sports training. Through public education, I hope to work with individuals to overcome matters related to negative body image, mental health disorders (depression, anxiety) and injury recovery. I may be headed in the sports psychology route, but I’m not entirely positive at this point!
“The more the body suffers, the more the spirit flowers.”
Hi there!
I am a kinesiology student soaking up my last wonderful year here at McGill. Although I have been making a real effort to bring out my inner bro and get better at ball sports these past few years, my real jam is all things endurance. As a kid I competed in triathlon and cross-country ski racing. Somewhere along the way I realized I was actually decent and committed to skiing pretty much full-time. I spent about 5 years on the Quebec ski team, and skied for the Canadian Jr National Ski Team for a few years before giving up the 24-hour athlete life to learn about fitness instead of doing it. Hmmm. Just kidding. I rowed with the McGill crew in my first year, but quickly decided that endless erging and 4:30AM mornings six days a week just weren't for me. I have since become a professional recreation enthusiast, with a specialty in binge-workouts. There are few things I love more than that wonderful feeling after cranking out some milage on the road, on the bike or in the pool.
Having personally reaped the benefits of having strong, enthusiastic and successful female role models to look up to as a young athlete, I really hope to one day make it back and get involved in keeping girls in sport. Sport is an incredible tool for the promotion of confidence and empowerment, and I think it needs to be brought to the places that need that the most!
"What are you made of?"
I am a kinesiology student soaking up my last wonderful year here at McGill. Although I have been making a real effort to bring out my inner bro and get better at ball sports these past few years, my real jam is all things endurance. As a kid I competed in triathlon and cross-country ski racing. Somewhere along the way I realized I was actually decent and committed to skiing pretty much full-time. I spent about 5 years on the Quebec ski team, and skied for the Canadian Jr National Ski Team for a few years before giving up the 24-hour athlete life to learn about fitness instead of doing it. Hmmm. Just kidding. I rowed with the McGill crew in my first year, but quickly decided that endless erging and 4:30AM mornings six days a week just weren't for me. I have since become a professional recreation enthusiast, with a specialty in binge-workouts. There are few things I love more than that wonderful feeling after cranking out some milage on the road, on the bike or in the pool.
Having personally reaped the benefits of having strong, enthusiastic and successful female role models to look up to as a young athlete, I really hope to one day make it back and get involved in keeping girls in sport. Sport is an incredible tool for the promotion of confidence and empowerment, and I think it needs to be brought to the places that need that the most!
"What are you made of?"
Hey there!
My name is Josh Atkinson. I have played a variety of sports for as long as I can remember, including hockey, baseball, lacrosse, and tennis. Hockey has always been my greatest passion. I played several season at the “AAA” level in the Greater Toronto Hockey League, eventually attending the Interact Program at Vaughan Road Academy, so that I had more time available to train. Although I have moved on from competitive hockey, I continue to play it regularly as a part of a physically active lifestyle.
I am currently in my final year at McGill and am pursuing an honours degree in kinesiology. I have been heavily involved in research throughout my academic years; my current research is focused on examining the high variability seen in exertional dyspnea, even when controlling for a host of factors. I am hoping to attend medical school in the coming years. I hope to promote physical activity as an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, especially for its role in the prevention of chronic disease.
“Great moments are born from great opportunities.” - Herb Brooks
My name is Josh Atkinson. I have played a variety of sports for as long as I can remember, including hockey, baseball, lacrosse, and tennis. Hockey has always been my greatest passion. I played several season at the “AAA” level in the Greater Toronto Hockey League, eventually attending the Interact Program at Vaughan Road Academy, so that I had more time available to train. Although I have moved on from competitive hockey, I continue to play it regularly as a part of a physically active lifestyle.
I am currently in my final year at McGill and am pursuing an honours degree in kinesiology. I have been heavily involved in research throughout my academic years; my current research is focused on examining the high variability seen in exertional dyspnea, even when controlling for a host of factors. I am hoping to attend medical school in the coming years. I hope to promote physical activity as an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, especially for its role in the prevention of chronic disease.
“Great moments are born from great opportunities.” - Herb Brooks
Bonjour,
If you are still reading these then you must be really interested in either the team or me! I like you! My name is Will Franquet. I am from Belgium and have played almost every sport in a competitive manner. This includes soccer, tennis, rock-climbing, sailing, basket-ball, lacrosse, swimming, skiing, etc. The sports at which I excelled were tennis in my youth and sailing further on. I was once seventh in Quebec in my age group for tennis and I also sailed at a very high level. I own two boats, was a member of the Quebec Sailing Team as well as the McGill Sailing Team and got to race on the international 49er circuit while being coached by a Canadian Olympic sailor. Those were probably the best days of my life but unfortunately, sailing is incredibly expensive and my part time jobs couldn't handle the costs. I am now finishing my Bachelor of Honours in Kinesiology while working at the Occupational Biomechanics and Ergonomics Lab in Laval. I am focusing on analysing variations in muscle blood flow when doing repetitive computer tasks on both a single monitor or dual monitor computer setup. As for the future, I am not sure where things will lead me but with hard work, I'm sure I will get to where I want to be.
"There may be people that have more talent than you, but theres no excuse for anyone to work harder than you do.”– Derek Jeter
If you are still reading these then you must be really interested in either the team or me! I like you! My name is Will Franquet. I am from Belgium and have played almost every sport in a competitive manner. This includes soccer, tennis, rock-climbing, sailing, basket-ball, lacrosse, swimming, skiing, etc. The sports at which I excelled were tennis in my youth and sailing further on. I was once seventh in Quebec in my age group for tennis and I also sailed at a very high level. I own two boats, was a member of the Quebec Sailing Team as well as the McGill Sailing Team and got to race on the international 49er circuit while being coached by a Canadian Olympic sailor. Those were probably the best days of my life but unfortunately, sailing is incredibly expensive and my part time jobs couldn't handle the costs. I am now finishing my Bachelor of Honours in Kinesiology while working at the Occupational Biomechanics and Ergonomics Lab in Laval. I am focusing on analysing variations in muscle blood flow when doing repetitive computer tasks on both a single monitor or dual monitor computer setup. As for the future, I am not sure where things will lead me but with hard work, I'm sure I will get to where I want to be.
"There may be people that have more talent than you, but theres no excuse for anyone to work harder than you do.”– Derek Jeter
Hello! My name is Sarah Kitner and I am in my last year of the kinesiology program at McGill University. Although I joined the McGill Synchronized Swimming Team this year, this is not where my athletic lifestyle began. I think I may have been able to plier before I could walk; starting ballet at the age of two and a half spring boarded my sporting career for the years to come. Ballet recitals soon turned into gymnastic competitions, which eventually became a juggling act between tennis matches, basketball games, volleyball tournaments, touch football practices, and many more. Today however, sports and athletics are something I enjoy recreationally. I believe that leading an active lifestyle translates to living a happy life. This belief, paired with the science nerd in me, is what brought me to studying kinesiology in the first place. I would like to use this bachelor to help spread the awareness that being physically active is the best thing you could do to be happy, have a healthy life trajectory, and improve your quality of life. As for where the future will bring me: that I cannot predict. I can however ensure that my undergraduate degree will not be the last this field will see of me.
“Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game” – Babe Ruth
“Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game” – Babe Ruth
Hey! My name is Tayler Buchan, I’m in my fourth year of Kin
and have been involved in athletics my entire life. Growing up, my main focus and obsession was dance. I danced competitively for 10 years in all areas including jazz, ballet, modern, lyrical, tap, and acro. I would typically be at the studio 6 days a week, either training or teaching classes and had the opportunity of travelling to L.A. with my group to attend dance workshops. Throughout my high school years, my attention began to shift away from dance as I became very involved in my high school athletics department. I played field hockey and rugby, and competed at the OFSAA swimming championships in both freestyle and backstroke in my last two years. Since being at McGill, I have continued my team involvement through intramural sports including ultimate and volleyball, although my main focuses are with running and hot yoga.
My goals for post-undergrad are to continue research as a graduate student in the field of exercise physiology. My current work as student therapist for the Men’s Ice Hockey team has helped direct me towards a research area focused on risk factors associated with elite endurance-trained athletes.
“Set your goals high, and don’t stop till you get there”
and have been involved in athletics my entire life. Growing up, my main focus and obsession was dance. I danced competitively for 10 years in all areas including jazz, ballet, modern, lyrical, tap, and acro. I would typically be at the studio 6 days a week, either training or teaching classes and had the opportunity of travelling to L.A. with my group to attend dance workshops. Throughout my high school years, my attention began to shift away from dance as I became very involved in my high school athletics department. I played field hockey and rugby, and competed at the OFSAA swimming championships in both freestyle and backstroke in my last two years. Since being at McGill, I have continued my team involvement through intramural sports including ultimate and volleyball, although my main focuses are with running and hot yoga.
My goals for post-undergrad are to continue research as a graduate student in the field of exercise physiology. My current work as student therapist for the Men’s Ice Hockey team has helped direct me towards a research area focused on risk factors associated with elite endurance-trained athletes.
“Set your goals high, and don’t stop till you get there”
Hi everyone! My name is Aviva Elman and I am back at McGill finishing my degree in Kinesiology. I am so excited to be on the McGill Kin Games team and cannot wait to head to UBC. My love for physical activity goes back as long as I can remember, since I started skiing and dancing as a child. I grew up skiing every weekend in the winter, which eventually lead to me to join a competitive ski club. I competed in downhill skiing for 3 years, and also was a member on my high school ski team for 4 years. Although my ski racing career is over, I still love the sport and cannot wait to get back on the slopes this winter. I also was involved in dance for 10 years. I started dancing in jazz, which lead me to ballet and tap as well. I danced competitively for a few years and retired from dance in the middle of high school. I played basketball up until high school, and once I entered high school played on the varsity rugby and field hockey teams. At McGill, I have played inner tube water polo and basketball intermural and am looking forward to participating in more intermural teams. Being active has always been important to me, and my favorite ways to stay active is by exploring the great outdoors. I love hiking, swimming, skiing, kayaking and almost all outdoor activities. My Kinesiology degree has taught me about the importance of leading a healthy active lifestyle, and as I further my education, I hope to spread that. I have seen the effects of exercising for disabled bodies and specifically want to focus my attention in the medical field. I am slowly being convinced that exercise is the cure to everything. I hope to lead an active and healthy life and share the benefits of this with everyone around me.
“Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live in” – anonymous
“Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live in” – anonymous
Hi! My name is Phelix Bussiere and I am currently in my second year of my Physical and Health Education degree. My goal as a future physical education teacher is to make children love sports as much as I do and make them realize that they can be successful. One thing that I have noticed among young people is that they are not playing
outside or doing sports by their own anymore. When I was younger we would always be playing sports, from the hockey games in the street and the soccer games during recess to the skateboarding sessions, we would always be moving. A positive impact that I would like to have would be to promote and encourage this type of activity. Sports and physical activities do not have to happen in schools or during a practice. They can take place anywhere and they make the best moments to share with your friends. Sports have always been part of my life, team sports as well as individual sports. I started snowboarding when I was 8 and I played soccer in a social league and in a competitive league. However, my main sport became basketball when I entered high school and I played for the school team for all my high school years. Since I graduated, I have been playing in basketball and soccer social leagues and I try to take advantage of all the opportunities where I can perform physical activities.
"It’s an awesome feeling when you truly believe that you’re going to be successful, regardless of the score board!" - Apollos Hester
outside or doing sports by their own anymore. When I was younger we would always be playing sports, from the hockey games in the street and the soccer games during recess to the skateboarding sessions, we would always be moving. A positive impact that I would like to have would be to promote and encourage this type of activity. Sports and physical activities do not have to happen in schools or during a practice. They can take place anywhere and they make the best moments to share with your friends. Sports have always been part of my life, team sports as well as individual sports. I started snowboarding when I was 8 and I played soccer in a social league and in a competitive league. However, my main sport became basketball when I entered high school and I played for the school team for all my high school years. Since I graduated, I have been playing in basketball and soccer social leagues and I try to take advantage of all the opportunities where I can perform physical activities.
"It’s an awesome feeling when you truly believe that you’re going to be successful, regardless of the score board!" - Apollos Hester
Hi, my name is Mike and I am currently in my fourth and graduating year in Physical and Health Education. I am also part of the student association of physical education and kinesiology, where I represent my graduating class.
My history of athletics began in many sports, if not all of them. Both team and individual, physical activity and sport has been my favorite pass time for all my life. After trying my skills at a handful, my talents resided in swimming where I started my competitive career at the age of 9; where I began tearing up the pool soon after. Continuing throughout my teenage years, my success in swimming grew to the point where I was winning medals on the national and international levels. Having competed at Canada Games and the in Canadian Olympic Swimming Trials twice; I gained a lot of experience and built a lot of character through my sport. For the past four years I have been part of the Varsity Swim Team, where I have made CIS Finals each year, as well as hold 2 McGill Swimming records. My goal is to use my knowledge and experience I have gained through sports, to help others use physical activity as a tool in fostering positive youth development.
Upon completing my undergraduate degree, I hope to further my education in sports psychology, or pursue another opportunity within physical education. I believe that physical activities and sports have the ability to teach everyone valuable and respectful qualities that are transferable to many aspects of life. It is important that our youth and younger generations use physical activity not only to be healthier individuals, but also to develop lifetime characteristics.
“Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.” – John Wooden
My history of athletics began in many sports, if not all of them. Both team and individual, physical activity and sport has been my favorite pass time for all my life. After trying my skills at a handful, my talents resided in swimming where I started my competitive career at the age of 9; where I began tearing up the pool soon after. Continuing throughout my teenage years, my success in swimming grew to the point where I was winning medals on the national and international levels. Having competed at Canada Games and the in Canadian Olympic Swimming Trials twice; I gained a lot of experience and built a lot of character through my sport. For the past four years I have been part of the Varsity Swim Team, where I have made CIS Finals each year, as well as hold 2 McGill Swimming records. My goal is to use my knowledge and experience I have gained through sports, to help others use physical activity as a tool in fostering positive youth development.
Upon completing my undergraduate degree, I hope to further my education in sports psychology, or pursue another opportunity within physical education. I believe that physical activities and sports have the ability to teach everyone valuable and respectful qualities that are transferable to many aspects of life. It is important that our youth and younger generations use physical activity not only to be healthier individuals, but also to develop lifetime characteristics.
“Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.” – John Wooden