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 Deanna Fisher

University - 

University of Windsor

 

Sport -

Curling

 

Year of Eligibility -

3rd Year

 

Hometown - 

Ingersol, Ontario 

 

Program of Study - 

Forensic Science 

 

 

How did you first get involved in your sport?

I first got into curling when I was very young. My dad is the curler in the family so it was something I grew up watching and wanting to play. I started in a "Little Rockers" program for elementary-age kids to learn how to curl. After that, I went up the levels and started to coach the program as well as playing in recreational leagues. When I entered high school, I joined the team there, and helped to restart the program after a 1 year hiatus in my Grade 10 year.   

 

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

I love curling and the curling community. Having the chance to play at an elite level allows me to continue to pursue what I love and grow my skills and passion for the game. 

 

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?

Originally, I wasn't expecting to play at a higher level because at the time when I applied to the University of Windsor, the university didn't have a women's curling team. Once I arrived on campus and found out the team had been restarted, I knew I had to join.   

 

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

My fondest experience would be having the chance to curl with family and friends. Nothing beats going to a bonspiel and getting to work together with your family to win the competition.  

 

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 and my high school curling coach are people that encourage me to keep curling at a high level. The time and dedication that they have put into helping me become a better curler inspires me and makes me want to persevere in my curling career as far as it may take me.  

 

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

What excites me the most about playing in the OUA is getting to meet new people in my teammates and all across Ontario. It's amazing to see strong athletes in varying programs all united by a common sport.

 

 

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

Did you know that curling stones weigh about 44 pounds and are made from a very special granite mined in Scotland.   

 

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 always tell the person to be sure to stretch before playing. Additionally, head to any local curling club to get started. It doesn't cost a lot to get started and everyone is extremely friendly and more than willing to teach you. 

 

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.)?

For me, I watch professional curling to get a better idea of game strategy and how to improve my form. I also try to stay as fit as possible by trying new ways to train and exercise my body. I've actullay just begun to give rock climbing a go and as a way to add upper body workouts to my exercise regimen. 

 

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 definitely keep at it. The supports are there and you can do it.   

 

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

Time management and organization are two key strategies that help you to create a more positive student/athlete balance. For example, my planner is color-coded for easy understanding of what I need to accomplish each week.

 

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 Curling 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.