International
Alberta’s Schmiemann named Canada’s flag bearer as first five teams announced for 2019 FISU Winter Universiade
U SPORTS sits down with the athletes set to don the maple leaf at the World University Games in Krasnoyarsk, Russia in our interview series “Getting to know…”
- Name: Ember Large
- School: MacEwan University
- Sport (years): Cross Country Skiing (9 years)
- Program: Social Work
- Hometown: Edmonton, Alta.
1. What are your thoughts on representing Team Canada at a major international event, and most specifically at the 2019 FISU Winter Universiade?
I am SO STOKED to represent Canada at this year’s Universiade. Ever since I began skiing competitively at the age of 13 I have dreamed of representing Canada on the international stage, and I feel incredibly honored to have been selected to do so now.
2. Is this the first time you have been selected to represent Canada on the international stage or at the Universiade? Current track record (national and/or international)?
This is my first time at a Universiade. My only international experience has been racing at American Nationals and several other races around the United States.
3. What are you most looking forward to in Krasnoyarsk, Russia outside of the competition?
I am most looking forward to breathing in the energy of such a big international event, experiencing Krasnoyarsk and meeting as many people as I can who share in the unique experience of combining high-level sport and academics. I’m also hoping to try a bunch of funky foods that I’ve never had.
4. What are your personal and/or team goals for this Universiade?
I do not have any results-related expectations, but my biggest goal will be to go into each race and give it absolutely 120 per cent and lay it all out on the course.
5. . Do you have a nickname in your sport?
As far as I know, no, hopefully not.
6. What are you listening to right now / what is your pump-up music?
I am currently listening to Sticky Fingers’ album Caress Your Soul, but my pump-up top three list right now is: Moments by Bliss n eso, The days by Avicci, or anything by Halsey or Sia.
7. Current favorite TV show?
This Is Us (for the emotional days), New Girl (for the goofy days), and Grace and Frankie (when I need a laugh).
8. What message would you like to share with Team Canada followers / the U SPORTS community?
I would just like to send a resounding WOOT WOOT to all you folks who may be struggling with the decision to stay involved in sport, or perhaps would like to become involved in sport but are feeling unsure, or for those who may be feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or depressed.
Sport has given me an outlet that I could not live without. It has saved me (literally and figuratively) time and again, and I 100 per cent support anyone’s decision to get outside and sweat a little (or a lot!).
I would encourage all of you to take a chance, dare to fail, go a little out of your comfort zone and just look at the beautiful world around you. Sport doesn’t have to mean competition or intense faces, sport can be something as simple as playing British Bulldog, kicking a soccer ball, or walking the dog outside. Sport is for EVERYONE - students or business people, poor or rich, child or adult, and is one of the easiest, and most rewarding aspects that I believe is truly beneficial for a healthy, and most importantly, HAPPY, life. Happy sporting everyone!