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 Mariah Shaw

University - 

Trent University

 

Sport -

Soccer

 

Year of Eligibility -

2nd Year

 

Hometown - 

Cobourg, Ontario

 

Program of Study - 

Environmental Science

 

 

How did you first get involved in your sport?

I first got involved in soccer while playing sports with my uncle when nobody else would because I was a girl.

 

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

My passion for the game and the adrenaline rush I experience playing definitely motivated me to play at a high level. I would also say that the constant support from the sports community and fans who come out and watch keep me going. 

 

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?

For me, once I knew I had the confidence to take players on consistently,  that was when I really changed how I looked at the game. My coaches and teammates would refer to me as positive leader that gave their heart out and left everything on the pitch. This is the moment that I realized that, not only could I play at this high level, but that I could thrive as a player too.  

 

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

Honestly, connecting with the team on and off the pitch really makes the difference for me.  The opportunity to bond with my teammates in all aspects of the game really makes the whole experience of playing worth the countless hours of training and dedication that I put into the game.   

 

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 significant other inspires me to pursue my sport at this high level. She has always been there for me. She's a constant support system that I can always turn to on the sideline and I feel a sense of calmness and security when I'm with her. Also, her drive, advocacy and compassion for not only herself but for others she cares for is admirable and inspires me.

 

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

I'm excited to be able to inspire young athletes to want to play in the OUA. I'm also excited to work hard and make the playoffs as a team. I know that will be a rewarding experience.

 

 

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

My sport has unique aspects that only those that play may experience. For example, soccer girls are a different breed and that comes with our willingness to sacrifice our entire body to control a ball that's coming at us 50 km an hour.    

 

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

I will tell someone who's interested in starting soccer to get out of your comfort zone and try a few positions. Don’t just stick with the first one you're put in. While it's true that you will be better in some positions than others, but playing multiple positions will enable you to find that place you'll thrive the most.

I would also encourage someone to always speak up for yourself.  It's important you feel valid as a player and if something around you makes you feel uncomfortable,  then you need to speak up and know that you are not alone.

 

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.)?

Most importantly, I try to incorporate proper rest and recovery days into my schedule. I also significantly benefit from foam rolling, stretching, ice baths, etc. as part of taking care of my body. For me to perform at my best, I frequently practice recovery methods that will allow me to experience maximum recovery.

 

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 stay focused. And focused on you. I would tell her to know that the game of soccer will be an outlet for you and an environment that will take you out of your home life. It will be a place to play and forget about all that is happening at home. And, while your family might not be there for you when you come out to them as gay, your soccer family will be. Soccer will never give up on you and will always be there for you.     

 

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

For me, I find having a consistent daily schedule really helps me in to create a positive student-athlete balance in my life. I also make sure to have lots of snacks on hand and available at all times. Proper nutrition is crucial when you're a student going back and forth daily to class and to training. 

 

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.