See How She Got Started in the OUA

Anchored in the efforts to spotlight Ontario University Athletics (OUA) student-athletes, the initiative See How She Got Started showcases and tells the story of how some of the conference’s talented student-athletes first got involved in sport and have made their way to the varsity stage on which they currently shine.  It is also hoped that their stories can inspire young athletes to aspire to compete in varsity-level sports.

 

 

Meet OUA Student-Athlete Ellie Hatashita 

University - 

McMaster University

 

Sport -

Volleyball

 

Year of Eligibility -

3rd Year

 

Hometown - 

Ottawa, Ontario 

 

Program of Study - 

Commerce  

 

 

How did you first get involved in your sport?

I first got started playing for fun in elementary school because my older sisters played too. Eventually one of my friends convinced me to go to tryouts for a competitive team, I made it and I guess the rest is history. 

 

What most interested you about your sport that made you want to pursue it at a high level?

I loved how volleyball was a team sport but also super individual at the same time. I am a very competitive person and one of my favorite parts of the game was how each point had a winner. I thought this made it very interesting not only to play but to watch. 

 

Was there a specific moment/experience that led you to believe you could compete in your sport at a high level, and if so, what was it?

I think a key moment for me would have to be at the end of playing in my U15 year. My team had had a good finish at the National Championships and I got invited to try out for Team Ontario. That's the moment when I realized I could compete at a high level and began to take playing volleyball more seriously. 

 

What is your fondest memory/experience of being involved in your sport thus far?

I have two fond memories that I can't decide between. My favorite memory would be winning Provincials in my U18 year play.  It was one of the closest and most exciting games I've ever played. I would also say that having the opportunity to go to France and train with their youth national team was one of the best experiences I've had in volleyball. It was so eye-opening to see how different they practice and play.  

 

What excites you most about continuing your athletic journey at the varsity level within the OUA?

I get excited with every first home game back in Burridge Gym. There's nothing like the feeling of game day or playing in front of a home crowd. Additionally, I'm excited to see my team grow and develop throughout the season and compete for a championship. 

 

 

What is/are some of the more unique aspect(s) of your sport that others may not know about?

I would say one of the things that first stood out to me was how small and close the volleyball community is. I love having friends or former teammates on the other team and getting to compete against them.  

 

If someone else was looking to start playing your sport, what one piece of advice would you give them to get them started?

If there was someone who was interested in playing the game, I would certainly tell them that volleyball is a game of mistakes. So definitely don't be too hard on yourself and allow yourself to let go of the mistakes you will make.   And always remember that every point is a fresh start and a chance to make the most of current and future plays.

What is one critical thing that you do to try to continue to experience improvement within your sport (i.e., specific drill/exercise, training regimen, routine, etc.)?

I would say that I love to review and watch game and practice film with a critical eye. After almost every game, the first thing I'll do is rewatch it to see what I can improve and what I did well. I also love watching opponents to see their tendencies and weaknesses.  

 

What would you say to your 10-year-old self about playing and staying in sport?

I would definitely tell my 10-year-old self that staying in sports will be the best decision of your life. You will meet so many people, make some of your best friends, and have so many cool experiences. On top of this, you will learn so much about yourself.  

 

Is there one strategy that you find works well for you in creating a positive student/athlete balance in your life?

For me, one key strategy is to try to separate my school and volleyball as much as possible. For example, when I'm at practice I'm just there to work and am not thinking of any assignments or school work that I have to do. This allows me to treat volleyball as a break from school and school as a break from volleyball. 

 

SeeWhatSheCanDo

Head to the SWSCD Athlete Advisor, your online athletic business directory. Find, rate and review programs, local community offerings and businesses that will help you do your thing.  

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Have a sport, recreation or physical activity accomplishment you'd like to celebrate and shout out through SWSCD?  Become a SWSCD member and share your story directly on SeeWhatSheCanDo. Or, simply add the hashtag #seewhatshecando to your public social media posts and SWSCD can help you inspire others around you.