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 Paris Grosselle

University - 

Nipissing University

 

Sport -

Soccer

 

Year of Eligibility -

1st Year

 

Hometown - 

Winnipeg, Manitoba 

 

Program of Study - 

Bachelor of Science, Nursing 

 

 

How did you first get involved in your sport?

I got involved in playing soccer because my dad liked soccer. I did many other sports growing up like swimming dance and gymnastics. But nothing really stuck like soccer did. From a young age I just loved it.  

 

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

I knew after high school I wouldn't be done playing soccer at such a competitive level. I wanted to rise to the next level and be able to play in another province, move away from home and be a part of something so special during my university experience. 

 

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?

There was not just one moment, over the years. I just knew I wouldn't be done with my sport and I wanted more.  

 

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

My fondest memory is probably during high school soccer scoring six goals in the first half of the game. Winning this game allowed us to move on and compete in the Provincial Championships. 

 

Is there someone who inspires you to continue to pursue your sport at this high level (i.e., coach, professional athlete, family member, etc.) and what makes them an inspiration to you?

My Dad inspires me the most. He has encouraged from the start to play soccer and has pushed me like no one has before. He is my biggest fan and just wants me to have success. He inspires me because even on days I don't want to play or I've experienced a tough game, he has always been there for me. He doesn't miss any games and is just my biggest support and inspiration I have in my life.   

 

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

Something that excites me the most about the playing in the OUA is knowing that I will have the opportunity to play over the next four years.  I'm so excited for this varsity soccer journey. The new and higher level to compete excites me and makes me want to grow personally and excel as a team.  

 

 

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

Did you know that the World Record for juggling a soccer ball non-stop is 19 hours and 30 minutes? Martinho Eduardo Orige of Brazil juggled a regulation size soccer ball non-stop, meaning the ball did not touch the ground at all. Only your feet, legs, and head are allowed when juggling a soccer ball. This World Record was recorded in August of 2003.    

 

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

I would tell them to just try it. The worst that can happen is that you don't like it. But if you don't try it, you'll never know. Give it a try. You might just find you love it.  

 

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.)?

Something I want to try and get better at is juggling, 1v1, and having more confidence on the field so I can take on players and go straight for goal.   

 

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

I would tell my 10 year old self to keep going. You are going to love it. There are times where you may hate it but that's a part of having passion. You love it so much that sometimes it will frustrate you. You got this.      

 

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

My primary focus is to manage my time. Ultimately I am here first for school so if things aren't going well academically, you won't be able to play soccer. So focus on school and the rest will fall into place. Always try your best in the classroom and on the field. You've been playing soccer your whole life and you know how to play your game. So go out and do your best and feel good about yourself.  Always.   

 

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.  

Start a group around a physical activity in your neighbourhood. Explore events. Check out our SWSCD Hub.

Look for advice, stories, news and more on our Soccer activity page.  

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.