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Ontario University Athletics is determined to help spearhead a change in the culture of sport. Our conference hopes to help spark continued female participation and retention in athletics at the university level; empower future female leaders in the industry; and celebrate those who have already made their mark as influencers and champions.

Collaboration

Collaboration

Across the conference and our 20 members, we aspire to provide paths, resources, and development for women to access at every turn.

Communication

Communication

As a collective, we not only want to take part in the conversation, but help it move forward in a positive and meaningful way.

Empowerment

Empowerment

We want to make a difference to ensure athletics at the university level is inclusive and equitable on the field and behind the scenes.

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Female Student-Athletes
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Female Coaches
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Female Athletic Staff
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Female Athletic Directors

My aspirations are not to be deemed as good as my fellow male athletes; instead I want to be recognized for my talent, strength, and power irrespective to my gender. For talent, dedication, and hard work transcend the labels of gender.

Cadence Currie
York Lions, Volleyball

Being a varsity athlete means a lot of things. It means being a part of a community/support group/social network made up of really wonderful ladies (and men because we all train and hang out together). It's a stress reliever, mind clearer, and motivator. It is learning about physical health, exercise, nutrition, mental health and mental strength/performance, setting goals, and learning how to overcome personal challenges. It's learning how to manage your time and finding that balance. And while balancing it all along with academics can feel overwhelming at times, I know I'm learning so much about myself that will carry with me into other aspects of my life beyond university. It is extremely rewarding. Finally, being a female varsity athlete in Nordic Skiing in particular, to me is incredibly inspiring and I'm so happy to be a part of it.

Marina Tusz
Laurentian Voyageurs, Nordic Skiing

Sport has taught me so much over my life. I believe every girl should have the opportunity to play and learn. Being a female varsity athlete means being a role model and inspiration for younger girls in sport. I try to lead by example to inspire the younger generation so they can aspire to varsity athletics.

Frankie St. Louis
York Lions, Field Hockey

As a female varsity athlete, I can truly say that my sport means the world to me. My goal in life is to inspire others to surmount to challenges and inspire young individuals to chase their dreams. Having the opportunity to compete in competitive swimming at a post-secondary level is beyond amazing because it is giving women the same athletic opportunity as men (which is super important). I have been able to influence younger females to continue pursuing their athletic careers and I am able to give them knowledge based on my experience. I am motivated by all of my fellow female teammates for their hard work, their passion, their positivity, and their support in the field of high-performance athleticism while continuing a full-time academic degree. Being a female athlete is not just an opportunity to compete in a sport I am passionate about; it is about teamwork, growth, discipline, personal experience, dedication, and challenging myself on many levels with the added components of life skill and values.

Natalie Lefebvre
Laurentian Voyageurs, Swimming

Being a varsity athlete is a dream come true. Representing my school as well as my team is something special and I will cherish it forever. It has also allowed me to expand and meet other female athletes that are truly inspiring. Being a female athlete is empowering.

Rachel Chantler
Windsor Lancers, Hockey

To me, being a varsity athlete means so much more than just competing in your sport. It forces you to grow as person, create and develop long-lasting relationships with teammates, coaches, and the varsity community as a whole. It means being 100% dedicated to your sport, striving to be your best every day, and having a competitive mindset. Not only does it shape you as a person but it connects you to like-minded people and makes you feel part of a community, all experiencing the same challenges that you are.

Kate Ferguson
Western Mustangs, Volleyball

Being a female varsity athlete has allowed me to develop the confidence to accomplish my goals on and off the court. It has given me the strength to know I can and I will.

Sierra Hardy
Queen’s Gaels, Volleyball

Being a varsity athlete has allowed me to proudly represent my school. Varsity athletics has been a channel to develop strong relationships and lasting friendships. My participation on the Laurier lacrosse team has been a tool in providing indispensable life skills.

Haley Montague
Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks, Lacrosse

To me, being a varsity athlete means being given the opportunity to empower other women and girls around me. I believe that the more female leaders there are in sport, the more likely we will be able to convince young female athletes that they can achieve anything they put their mind to.

Jesse Nairn
McMaster Marauders, Volleyball

Being a varsity athlete means having the responsibility to promote the female game and inspire the generations to follow. Too often you hear of young girls quitting sports due to societal pressures, so it's important for us athletes to be role models and make sports something that anyone can pursue, no matter your gender.

Stephanie Roberts
McMaster Marauders, Soccer