Sport: Soccer/Futsal

What year (s) did you compete for Lakeland: 2011-2012, 2016

How did playing for the Rustlers help you get to where you are today (career)?

My time at Lakeland and playing for the Rustlers helped in encouraging me to recognize personal strengths and engage them in my day to day activities. It also helped in developing a community mindset and a desire to encourage others to work from their strengths as well. These pieces helped promote a spark for leadership and coaching for myself that I carry with me to this day, on and off the pitch.

Where are you working right now and what are you doing?

I am currently working for Alberta Health Services in a Managerial Role overseeing a team of Nursing and Allied Health staff.

Are you still involved with your sport you competed at Lakeland now? Coaching/ playing etc.

Absolutely,up until COVID I was playing with Callies FC in Calgary on the Premier Team. I have recently taken a step back from playing and just focused on Coaching. Working as a Grassroots Technical Lead & Coach for CalGlen FC in Calgary.

What was your favorite moment at Lakeland as a student-athlete?

A singular moment is tough to choose. I was fortunate to come to Lakeland in the soccer programs infancy. We experienced a lot of firsts in the history of the program, as well as helping establish new targets for future teams. Winning Futsal gold my first season was an amazing experience, but winning Bronze the following outdoor season, in the first ever playoff appearance for the outdoor season will always hold a special place.

Are you still close with any former teammates?

Yes, I still keep in contact with Niels Slotboom, having been an assistant coach with him. Thankfully with Social Media I am able to keep in touch with other teammates that I had developed friendships with in my time at Lakeland. I also still come back to Lloydminster and Vermilion Area to visit family and run into past teammates and individuals from other sports that I had developed relationships with and we always find time to catch up.

If you could give a couple of words of advice to our current Rustlers what would it be?

Each day you make a choice and as an athlete we often choose to find a way to succeed. Through training sessions, gym time, video reviews we strive at being at our best every time we step on our chosen field. Make those same choices in class and in your future career and you will find a similar success in your life.

Any additional words of wisdom?

Like you do in your chosen sport, believe in your heart that you are capable of big things. Be consistent in all that you do, as every little thing over time, adds to the big picture you are striving to achieve. Lastly, remember that the only thing standing in your way is yourself. There is always a way and don't be afraid to reach out to someone for help and advice to see things from another lens.

Good Luck to all Rustler Teams this year and in years to come!