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U SPORTS sits down with each of its interns last semester in our interview series “Getting to know…”
- Name: Rebecca March
- School: Dalhousie University
- Program: Recreation Management
- Internship position: Sport Technical and National Championships
- Hometown: Sydney River, NS
1. What attracted you to Dalhousie and your program?
I was always involved in sports – an athlete, a coach and an official. It has been such a big part of my life and has contributed so much to the person I am today. I was drawn to the Recreation Management program there because it gave me an opportunity to pursue a career that I already knew I would love – it was the next step in giving what sport and recreation gave to me onto the next generation.
2. Why were you interested in interning at U SPORTS?
For me, it was the athletes involved. To be a student-athlete, you have to be 100 per cent dedicated to both your athleticism and your education, especially in Canada. I was drawn to being able to support these athletes by showcasing their hard work and achievement on a national stage.
3. What are your key learnings from your experience at U SPORTS?
My term at U SPORTS has brought my sport event knowledge to the next level. I’ve gained such a better big-picture approach to sport operations and events.
4. Any memorable moments over the course of your internship?
By far the most memorable moment during my term at U SPORTS was watching the championships that I helped create. Seeing the impact of my contributions to the events was so rewarding.
5. What is one piece of advice you can give to someone interested in joining U SPORTS?
Get ready to work your tail off. There are so many pieces that go into championships and U SPORTS in general – it’s hard work, but it’s worth it.
6. Why did you choose to pursue a career in sports and what is your dream job?
I chose it because I love it. I love what sport can do for people and their communities. It brings people together in such a wholesome way. My ultimate goal is to work in community development or an affiliated foundation with a professional team. Using the platform of a national team to give back through sport would be a dream come true. At some point, I’d also love to work for the Canadian Association for Advancement of Women in Sport and Physical Activity (CAAWS). I found empowerment in sport and it’s something I’d love to help create for someone else.
7. If you could sit down with one person in the sports industry (athlete, coach, manager or professional), who would it be? Why? What would you talk about?
I have to pick Steve Nash for his pure athleticism and what he’s given to sport throughout his career and into his retirement. I’d definitely have to talk about his sport career post-retirement and what is was like to win MVP for the first time (and the second).
8. After joining U SPORTS and gaining a better understanding of what we do, how would you describe the organization and the culture at the national office?
U SPORTS is all about supporting and showcasing the exceptional talent and accomplishments of Canadian student-athletes. This office is full of dedicated, motivated sport professionals that want to see student-athletes succeed and it shows in the culture. I’m so grateful that I had the opportunity to work for the fall semester surrounded by people who love what they do.
9. What do you enjoy doing when you’re away from your internship and school?
Outside of school, work and interning, I love to spend as much time outside as possible. I’ll take a weekend at a cottage, a campsite or a hiking trail any time I can.
10. What is your most memorable sports moment?
It’s so hard to pick just one! Nastia Liukin’s 2008 Olympic floor routine, Lisa Leslie’s first-ever WNBA dunk, Vince Carter’s 2000 NBA All-Star Dunk Contest winner, and Jordan Eberle’s goal in the final seconds in the Canada vs. Russia 2009 World Junior semifinal are definitely at the top.