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 Mecayllah Patos 

University - 

Wilfrid Laurier University

 

Sport -

Rugby

 

Year of Eligibility -

1st Year

 

Hometown - 

Owen Sound, Ontario 

 

Program of Study - 

BA Psychology 

 

 

How did you first get involved in your sport?

I first got involved in Rugby through my high school rugby team during my grade 10 year. I always enjoyed running/sprinting and a friend of mine told me I should tryout for the Rugby team. She had enjoyed playing it during her Grade 9 year. I started off playing with Rugby 7’s and almost got a try in my first game. I then returned for Rugby 15’s. 

 

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

What most interests me was the complexity of the game. At first glance, it can seem a very confusing game. But, once I finally understood the game, it became a very rewarding experience for me. As well, up until this point,  I had never played a contact sport. So the aggressiveness and style of the game drew me in a lot.   

 

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?

While there is no specific moment or experience in particular, during my high school rugby career, I learned that speed was what gave me an advantage over the other players. I knew that if I got the ball, there was a high chance of scoring a try.  

 

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

My fondest memory is when my high school team made it to the Ontario Federation of Secendary Athletic Associations (OFSAA) Championships. We were quite a small school in a rural town, and our team did not make OFSAA very often. When we played our games at OFFSA, a lot of other teams noticed us and it have the opportunity to play them, meaning we wouldn’t have to play the same 3 teams every season. Knowing that our team gave the opportunity for future rugby players to have better experiences has always made me proud.  

 

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?

Someone who inspires me is my significant other. When I was debating on trying-out for my team, he always pushed me to do it. He regularly attends games, understands my schedule and has been supportive since the start. Seeing me continue to pursue playing rugby at this level makes him proud and it makes me feel proud that I have come this far. 

 

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

What excites me the most is playing with and against people who all have the same level of motivation, determination and work ethic. Everyone who plays wants to be here. 

 

 

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

Mauls. Mauls are created when the person who has the ball is joined by their teammates as well as the opposition. In the maul the offense is driving to get as much distance, possibly a try. The defensive team is trying to drive to ensure no distance is made and the ball carrier loses possession or is in a position where they are able to tackle again.  

 

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 that person to be patient, adaptable and don’t be afraid to get tackled.   There are many rules in rugby and it will be confusing when you first begin to learn the game. But, as you play on, you will catch on and begin to understand more.   Also, it's likely you won’t always play the same position and will have an opportunity to try other positions on the field. If your coach finds that you would be suitable at a different position, you’ll probably end up playing in there for a game or two.  Finally, do remember that it’s a contact sport and means you’re going to get hit eventually.  

 

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 always like to do 2-minute drills and spend time passing the ball.  

 

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 get strong and make your tackles.  

 

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

I find making daily to-do lists and managing my time enables me to attend practices and give 110% while still having time to complete my school tasks. 

 

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 Rugby 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.