My first intramural game on a men's hockey team

There are four men's hockey teams here at UTSC:

• Tri-Campus (very competitive contact hockey)
• B-Team (very competitive non-contact hockey)
• C-Team (competitive non-contact hockey)
• R-Team (competitive non-contact hockey)

As mentioned in my last post (Tryout hangover), I made the B-team! YAY! I was so proud of myself to be able to compete and keep up with the men's team, that I had a constant smile on my face for at least two days. 

Growing up with brothers and playing competitive hockey all my life, I've never been the "puck bunny" type. I'd rather strap on the skates and compete with the guys, rather than drool over their missing teeth and wild helmet hair in the stands. As a result, I looked forward to playing my first game with the new team. I felt confident in myself that I'd be able to keep up, rather than make a fool of myself and get benched. 

On Saturday (game day) I was calm and composed......until I entered the arena. 

It was then I saw a glimpse of the other team. They had guys triple the size of me. I started to doubt myself quietly in the change room. Will I be able to keep up? Will I be laughed at? Will I fit in with the team? These questions started racing through my head. 

Being a female player on a male hockey team isn't always easy. Even though I've had success playing in mens leagues, I've had my share of inappropriate comments off and on the ice by other male players. I've heard it all. 

"Girl's can't play hockey!" "You're just a pylon!" "Is she a joke?" "Figure skating's the next arena over!""Don't pass to her!"

I usually block those comments out and play my game, but they all came rushing back as I stepped onto the ice to warm up. I've never felt so nervous. 

When the game started, I got into my groove. My defence partner was amazing and we worked incredibly well together. I started to notice that shift after shift, I was improving. I was just as fast, my shots were just as hard, and my passes were just as accurate.

We were leading 1-0 at the end of the first period. 

At the start of the second, I received the puck at the blue line and took a slap shot right at the goalie. To my surprise - it reflected off the other team and WENT IN! I couldn't believe it! I scored a goal! All my teammates and coaches were super supportive and congratulated me. I didn't feel like a girl on the ice, I was one of the guys and they treated me as such. 

The game ended with a 2-0 win for us. All the doubts and nerves I was thinking of beforehand seemed to have enticed me to work harder and prove that a girl can be just as good as any guy on the ice. Myself and two other amazing girls on the team seem to prove this theory well. 

Our next game is against UTM on Oct. 11 at 9 p.m. - Varsity Arena.

If you're a female athlete, do you have a similar experience? How do you deal with hurtful comments? If you're a male athlete, what are your thoughts of girls playing on your team? Comment below or tweet me @Jessica_Moy!

How do I balance school and sports? It gets hectic, but I do have some advice, click HERE!

Tryout hangover

This morning I felt like a zombie. Forced myself out of bed, gulped back two bottles of water from constant dehydration and regretted all I'd done the night before.

The tryout hangover. I know it well.

Push-ups, crunches, laps, scrimmages, sprints -- It's been a crazy couple weeks. Even though my body is feeling the aches and pains, I can proudly say I tried out for FOUR different sports teams this semester at UTSC. Am I crazy? Um. Yes.

I'm only taking three courses this semester, so I do have a bit more time to dedicate to athletics.

The teams I tried out for were girls soccer, hockey, flag football, and boys hockey (yeah, I'm surprised too).

Soccer tryout

I've been on the girls soccer team for the past three years, so I felt extremely comfortable being at tryouts and already knowing the coaches and past teammates. I was surprised to learn there will not be a girls B team this semester (usually there's an A and B team), and I can tell it bothered a few players. One girl even started a petition to get the B team back, but unfortunately, it didn't go through. I was also surprised at the amount of players who showed up. At least 50 girls pulled up their socks, tied their cleats, and competed for a spot on the team. I've never seen so many players at a tryout, it was awesome!

Tryouts are now over and the team has been made. I made the team (yay) and we already won our first game! :)

Flag football tryout

What's a fourth down? Don't ask me, I have no idea. So, why did I tryout for flag football? I wanted to try something new this year, and I thought this sport would be perfect. I learned quickly that you can be an amazing athlete, but in football, if you don't know strategy or football logic, you won't go far. At tryouts I was pretty good at throwing and catching the ball, but it was the plays and cuts that threw me off.

Actual conversation.

Coach: Jess, you're going to run a hook.
Jess: A what?
Coach: A hook.
Jess: What's that? Do I run far?
Coach: You run and cut at a 45 degree angle.
Jess: Cut where? At what angle?
Coach: You basically run straight and turn right.

Embarrassing.

For the sake of my dignity, I didn't attend the last tryout. It wasn't a sport I could see myself enjoying, but you can't blame me for trying!

Hockey tryout

Hockey is my safe place. I feel at home on the ice. Being on the team for the past two years, tryouts didn't even feel like work, it actually relaxed me. I have so much fun on the team and all the girls and coaches are great! The only frustrating part is we don't have a goalie...

If you, or someone you know, is a hockey goalie and is a girl who attends UTSC - WE NEED YOU!

Boys hockey tryouts is a WHOLE different story. I have a lot to say when it comes to being a girl playing with guys on the ice. I did make the team, but I will save this discussion for my next post.

Until then, if you have any questions about any intramural sports, comment below or tweet me @Jessica_Moy and I'll try my best to answer! :)

At UTSC, we are spoiled when it comes to athletics. Intramural sports are FREE to join, not to mention jerseys, water bottles, practice time, transportation are FREE as well. So don't be shy, it's never too early or too late to get involved!

See you guys next week,

Jessica Moy

UTSC students support Varsity Blues Football

Hey everyone!

First off, welcome back to another fantastic school year! Whether you've entered your first year (little rookies) or fifty-sixth year (oldtimers, like myself) I hope your first week went swimmingly.

For those of you who are new to UTSC Pulse, my name is Jessica and I will be providing you with regular Tuesday posts regarding UTSC athletics and fitness! I'm not actually in my fifty-sixth year of undergrad (even though it feels like it), I'm a fifth-year journalism student and will be graduating this June (eeks)!

I have been an active athlete at our school, playing soccer and hockey, not to mention the odd belly-dancing and zumba class. My goal is to promote fresh and exciting news about UTSC sports, fitness programs, and events! The difference between me and a website or newspaper who will just "promote" is that I promise to participate in all I write about (example, my video last year of me attempting belly-dancing which you can watch by clicking: HERE).

The school year has only started a week ago, but I have already participated in an event the SCSU & SCAA have organized: U of T Varsity Blues Football Homecoming. On Saturday afternoon, the Varsity Blues Football team faced the University of Windsor Lancers at Varsity Centre.

UTSC students got all geared up in blue attire and face paint to cheer on the Blues at our home field!

Katie, Lily, Leah, and myself ready for the game to start! 

It's time for face paint!

Paige and her U of T gear! 

Here comes the Blues! 

One of the best parts of coming out to watch a U of T game? It's FREE if you have a valid T-Card! If not, it's only a general admission fee of $5. A great way to spend an afternoon with friends and meet other U of T students! :)

Let's go boys!

Most of the Scarborough campus girls at the game! We were lucky to have amazing weather!

Kyle and I!

Want a more inside scoop on the team? Fourth year defensive back Kevin Kinahan writes blog posts about the team off and on the field. Even he admits it's awesome to see Varsity Centre packed with Blues fan! You can read his posts by clicking: Kevin's Critique

Cheering on the team! 

Biggest fan? I'd say so.

We were clearly the loudest cheering section. 

Chad starting the wave!

The game ended with a 55-4 loss to the Windsor Lancers. Even though it was a tough loss, all of us who came out to support our Blues had a great time! 

The next home game for the Varsity Blues Football team is Oct. 6 at 1:00 p.m. against the University of Ottawa! Enhance your university experience by coming to at least ONE game this year. Even if you don't like sports or don't know what's going on, it's still a great time to dress in blue and scream at the top of your lungs!

If you guys have any blog ideas or fitness classes you want me to try, let me know in the comments below or tweet me at @Jessica_Moy! See you guys next week!

Jessica Moy

Champions in my eyes

“[We] had a great winter semester and a great 2011-12 season. No, we don’t have any championships to show for it. But that’s really besides the point. As a group, you grew and came together, found friendships and enjoyed being around one another. Ultimately, those are the values our program holds most dear. Hopefully when you look back at your university experience, this will be something you remember and cherish." - Coach Danko

Coach Myz giving the girls a pep-talk before the game.

1-2-3-U-T-S-C!

First face-off.

Trying to get back, down by two.

Chelsea takes a snipe.

Celebrating our goal.

Last few minutes of play. Came out short with a 4-1 loss, but the girl's never gave up.

Coaches: Danko, Myz, and Sal.

The team. Great season ladies! 

Jessica's last blog post of the year

Hey everyone!

Yes indeed, the title says it all. I made a short video thanking everyone who supported UTSC Pulse, it has definitely been a memorable experience. As your athletic blogger, thank you to all those I've interviewed and got to know, you made my job a lot easier. As well, thank you to all the writers whom I met with once a week to pitch ideas, Nadia for being the brain behind the blog and Ron for putting me up for the challenge!

Enjoy the video and good luck with finals! :)

Ode to hockey practice

Hey everyone!

Man oh man, it's been a busy reading week for me - and with school starting again, it doesn't show signs of slowing down. I'm currently writing this at 2:48am (yikes!) I got back from hockey practice around 11:30pm and have been doing homework ever since. It doesn't help I have a soccer practice at 7:00am tomorrow morning (double yikes!).

So my dear readers, my mind has turned to jello and for such reason...I will write a poem.

Ahem.

Ode to hockey practice

The coaches made us skate, lap after lap
I only wanted to sit out and take a nap
It's been a long day, but I'll continue to skate
Even when the coach made us carry a weight
My knees were shaking with every turn
You better believe I felt the burn
We had a drill where we wrestled for the puck
I won that play, but i'm sure it was mere luck
Shoot outs happend at the end of the night
I tricked the goalie, as the puck took flight
It missed the net, pretty sure it hit her head
I apologized and apologized, "sorry" I said.
When practice was over, I tripped and nearly fell
We have a game on Sunday - oh goodness, wish us well!

UTSC rated B- in athletics

Annually, The Globe and Mail conducts a "University Report Card," where students all across Canada rate their school on most satisfied students, quality of teaching, student residences, libraries, athletics, etc. Overall, UTSC falls into the average grades for each category. As previously mentioned by my fellow bloggers, UTSC may be a smaller community, but I think we could embrace all the opportunities we have to offer.

UTSC is rated within the "small universities" category. We're rated a B- in athletics and recreation along with Nippising University and Kwantlen Polytechnic University. At the top of this list is University of Lethbridge and UOIT.

U of T St. George is rated a B+ while UTM is rated an A- in athletics.

The survey is going around again and UTSC can have a chance to move up a grade in all categories because let's face it, we're U of T students and a B- will only make your parents say, "you can do better."

In other news, UTSC will be having a "UTSC Marlies Day" on March 10, hosted by the SCHPA. The game is at the Ricoh Coliseum at 3pm. Oddly enough I used to work at the Ricoh and I can tell you Marlies games are WILD! It's a small arena, so anywhere you sit will be a great seat to watch the game.

Tickets are $35 and include, not only the game, but an $8 food voucher, Marlies T-shirt, autograph signing with a Marlies player, and a post-game skate on the Marlies ice.

Attending the game will be a great first step into embracing the UTSC athletic community. You don't have to play a sport to attend, just gather a group of your friends and have fun!

Tweet me @Jessica_Moy or comment below if you're attending the Marlies game, or how (as a UTSC student) would you improve the athletics at UTSC?

Superstition in sports

If you're an athlete, chances are you're likely to believe in superstition. Everything you do before a big game has to be to your liking or you'll feel unprepared. Take for example a soccer player who has to put on their left shin-pad first before their right or a volleyball player who has to bounce the ball a certain way before serving.

It all may seem a tad silly, but in order for certain athletes to feel prepared, they must stick to the same routine before heading out on their respective playing fields.

Many famous sport superstitions include Fabio Capello, England's soccer manager who banned all the girlfriends and wives of his soccer players during the 2010 FIFA World Cup from any sexual activities. Some may say such activities can hold back an athletes competitiveness, but according to TIME Magazine, this is just a superstition.

Another superstition is former basketball superstar Michael Jordan who couldn't go a game without wearing his lucky basketball shorts from college. He even wore them under his longer Bulls shorts during all his NBA games.

Personally, I'm not too superstitious when it comes to sports, but I do have a couple that stand out. For hockey I always have to tie my skates outside the dressing room. I don't remember when I started doing this, probably back in high school when the dressing room was always sweaty and crowded. I used to take my skates and tie them outside the room and listen to my music. Even today I continue to do this, it's automatic - even if the dressing room is half empty.

Also, in the beginning of the game when my team is about to cheer, I have to turn my back to the crowd. I believe this started when I was younger when I was always so nervous when friends or family came to watch. It would remind me to not pay attention to them and concentrate on the game. May sound silly but hey - it worked!

Here's a short, funny video of superstition in the NHL.

Let me know by commenting or tweeting me @Jessica_Moy if you or someone you know has a weird superstition or routine before heading out to the big game!

Q & A with Chelsea Seguin - UTSC hockey player

It seems girls are likely to be underestimated when it comes to a sport like hockey. Chelsea Seguin, a second year psychology and political science major has heard her fair share of chirps from guys (probably not as good as her). With a clapper of a slap shot and speed that takes her end to end, Seguin was a varsity hockey player before playing the intramural sport at UTSC.

"[Playing varsity] was a great experience and my physical fitness was pushed to the max."

Unfortunately, hockey is just as political as it is physical and Seguin was released from the team after a month and a half.

As much as a disappointment as that was for her, like any good hockey player, she picked herself back up and got back on the ice.

This being your first time on the UTSC hockey team, what were your expectations when you went to the first try-out?


When I came to tryouts, I didn't know what to expect. I was definitely intimidated because walking into a dressing room where everyone already knows each other is nerve-racking. As I got to know everyone, it didn't take long until I felt part of the team.

How has your overall university experience enhanced since being part of the team?


Overall, being part of the hockey team is a great way to meet new people that I have things in common with. It is also a good way to keep in shape and relieve stress when I need to get my mind off the books.

What's the biggest lesson you've learned while playing hockey at intramural level?


The biggest lesson I've learned (more so, been reminded of) since being on the hockey team is to never underestimate your opponents. During the Fall season, we lost in the semi-finals to a team that we were more than capable of beating. Sometimes you wrongly take a win for granted, but no matter what, you have to keep your head in the game.

What other teams have you played on at UTSC?


Last year I played intramural volleyball during the winter semester (won the championship). This year i'm playing soccer, along with interhouse volleyball and ball hockey.

Ultimate frisbee at UTSC

"STALL 1, STALL 2 STALL 3!"

Know what that means?

If you're an ultimate frisbee player, you do!

"Stall is the term used when a defender is covering an opposing player with possession of the frisbee. The defender calls 'stall 1, stall 2, stall 3' until they reach 8, in which the opposing player loses possession ofthe disc if they have not already thrown it."

The game of ultimate frisbee can be a new sport for most. For a select few however, the game is more than throwing a flat disk casually across the field. At UTSC, this intense game is taken to another level. UTSC ultimate frisbee player Kyle Larkin explained the basics of the intramural sport offered at our school. The fourth year journalism student gave me a clearer understanding of the game and how it is played.

Ultimate frisbee player - Kyle Larkin.

When did you join the ultimate frisbee team?

I joined back in first year but was only able to play one game due to time constraints. This year I decided to play again because I hadn't played a sport since baseball in the summer, and I was looking to have some fun while keeping in shape.

What part of the game do you like the most?

I have always loved frisbee, but to play on a competitive level makes it that much better. I definitely love running for those hail mary passes. 

What's a hail mary pass?

End to end!

Tell us about the sport to those who are unfamiliar (rules, what you wear, where you play, etc).

During first semester the schools play traditional ultimate frisbee on a soccer field. In the winter, we play an indoor game called speedpoint, horizontally on a soccer field. Each team has 5 players, of which 2 must be girls. One team begins with a pull (kind of like a kick off). When the frisbee is caught, you have to slow to a stop, and can only pivot on one foot. From there, you have 8 seconds to throw it. You get a point if you catch the frisbee in the endzone. Once you score, you drop the disc, and the other team immediately picks it up and starts their possession!

What sort of teams do you play? 

There is an A and B level, and we play in the A level. Every year UTSC is among the upper echelon of talent.

Do you think the sport is commonly unknown to UTSC? 

I don't think it's that well known, especially because there aren't really competitive leagues at the high school level. However, the talent at UTSC seems to be pretty competent on an annual basis.

What could UTSC do to promote the sport more? 

I think the school could promote the sport by imploring students to come out and watch our games down at Varsity Stadium!

What would you say to those who are new to the game?

A lot of people laugh when they hear about UTSC having a competitive team, but to those I urge to just watch one game and see it intense it can really be. Last Saturday, one of the boy's tricampus teams were privy to one of our games for the first time, and they ended up being louder than a stadium full of fans. They were shocked at the insane throws, catches, swats and overall athleticism that the teams displayed.

What has been the most valuable lesson since being on the team? 

Definitely the most valuable lesson is to not take the sport lightly. Our coach, Hussain Masoom, likes to run us pretty hard in practice, and it's not so easy after sitting on your butt for four months! I enter each game with as much intensity as I would when I play rugby. We want to outmatch our opponents in every way possible, and coming away with a victory is as satisfying as any other sport I have played.

Team huddle! 

Thoughts on ultimate frisbee? Would you ever play? Remember to tweet me a @Jessica_Moy! If you're interested in going to a game, the team plays every Saturday afternoon at Varsity Stadium! 

Tour of our athletic facility

Hey everyone!

Emily Kakouris so kindly offered to take me on a tour of our athletic facility at UTSC! If you're not familiar with the "The Key" "Cyclefit Room" or didn't even know we had a "Golf Cage" - watch and see for yourself what our lovely school has to offer!

Here's to a new year and a new you

Hey everyone!

This is your Tuesday sports blogger Jessica and i'm excited to be back at UTSC.

Literally.

For a year and a half I've attended Centennial College to finish my journalism diploma. I'm finally back on Scarborough soil to finish my degree. Just two more semesters 'till graduation!

Until then, let's get down to business.

If your new year's resolution is along the lines of, "lose weight" "stay fit" or "try something new" - lucky for you, there's plenty of solutions offered right here at the school.

LOSE WEIGHT

I've discussed in a previous post about UTSC instructional classes such as cyclefit, archery, fitness kickboxing, yoga, etc. The dance classes are incredibly popular and so much fun, plus you'll be shedding off the freshman fifteen in no time. Let me know if there's a class YOU want to see ME take. I'll film it and let you know how I do (like my belly dancing video).

List of classes: http://www.utsc.utoronto.ca/~athletics/images/winter-instructional.pdf

STAY FIT

Tryouts for 2012 intramural sports have begun and it's not too late to come out and play! You can try-out for volleyball, basketball, lacrosse, etc. It's a great way to meet new friends and be a part of a competitive team. I'm going for indoor soccer and hockey. I might challenge myself and try-out for co-ed ultimate frisbee, but I know nothing about the game nor how to throw a frisbee. Shall I dare? I mean, look how wild this sport is...

Try-out info: http://www.utsc.utoronto.ca/~athletics/images/IM-tryoutdateswin2012.pdf

TRY SOMETHING NEW

The SCAA is putting together their annual Blue Mountain ski-trip! A bus will take you on January 27, where you can experience the slopes and night life for a low price. For three days and two nights you can get back on your snowboard or try it for the first time. All levels welcomed! For more info, visit the SCAA office.

There you have it, my solutions to your resolutions.

Let me know on Twitter @Jessica_Moy or comment below what sports you're going to try or what you're going to do this semester to stay in shape!

Balancing the busy life

Hey everyone, Jessica here!

Along with Monday blogger Ranziba, it seems all nighters are a common pattern nowadays. It's been a full day of school and my evenings are shot with homework and playing sports. I notice many UTSC athletes are having a hard time balancing both. 

For example, at hockey practice only five or six girls would show up. The coach said everyone else was writing essays, finishing up labs, or other various school projects. It's not fun nor productive having a fraction of the players show up for practice, especially with semi-finals and finals fast approaching. 

If you know how to do it properly, balancing school and sports is simple.

I was lucky at a young age to have experienced the balancing act and compiled my top five list on how to keep an even scale.

1. Know your schedule

You should write down and know by heart all your due dates, practice, and game times. This is common sense. If you know you have an assignment due Thursday, but you have a game every Wednesday night - you should know to schedule your time accordingly. Word of advice, get your work done before you play. Two reasons. One, you won't be stressing about it at the game and two, when you get home, you can sleep peacefully once you walk in the door knowing your work is already finished.

2. Time management

If I could I'd bold this statement, make it 100 size font, and underline it in red at least 500 times - I would. This is the most important lesson in balancing a busy life. Everyone manages their time differently, here's how I do it. I know it sounds nerdy and a lot of work, but every day I plan out what I'm doing at every hour. This method has helped me for years because I know I don't have time to procrastinate. No time to slack. It keeps me focused and I always get my work done on time. Truth.

3. Don't stress

Balancing school and sports can be tough, but it doesn't have to take over your life. Of course most of your time will be dedicated to either of the two, but you should always make time for friends and family. Make sure you leave at least one hour in your day to just sit back and watch TV or go out with a friend. You deserve to. Just because you're busy, doesn't mean you need to sacrifice your social life.

4. Eat right

You need energy to keep going throughout the day! Duh! I know I shouldn't remind you, but it seems I keep reminding myself I need to eat properly. If I want to have the energy to play a sport, I need to eat food that will keep me going. Next week I will (possibly) post what you should and should not eat during exam time. According to a UTSC nutritionist of course. Stay tuned.

5. Have fun

Yadda, yadda, yadda, you've heard it all before. But, how can you have fun when you have a zillion things on your plate? Easy, develop a routine that's right for you. Once you get into the swing of things, you'll realize your stress levels will lessen and you'll actually have time to enjoy both school and sports simultaneously. Well, sports at least. Regardless, you should rarely sacrifice one or the other. These balancing skills are transferable. When you get into the real world, you'll be thankful you're one step ahead of the game.

Here's a fun fact: Back in the day, I was the prize you got in your Frosted Flakes.

Personal training at UTSC

Whether you need improvement in blood pressure levels, flexibility, agility, nutrition, or need a post-rehab specialist - UTSC athletics department has what you need to avoid gaining those freshman fifteen. Offered to students, faculty, and alumni - our gym offers individual assessments from certified personal trainers.

UTSC fitness coordinator, Catarina Freire, explains how students can get involved, the most popular fitness program, and crucial advice on how and why you should stay active during exam time.

Consultations are free! Click here for more information on personal fitness at UTSC!

Also, big congratulations to the women's UTSC "A" soccer team who beat UTM in the finals on Sunday! The nail biter of a game went into two overtimes and shoot-outs before UTSC claimed victory. A win well deserved ladies. Great season!

Interhouse soccer - and why I was a huge chicken

Two years ago I received a Facebook message from a guy who goes to UTSC asking if I wanted to play interhouse soccer. He explained it was a co-ed league that played every Tuesday at the school gym.

I was reluctant to agree, but he pleaded because his team needed to recruit more girls.

[For those of you who don't know, interhouse are co-ed leagues that include sports such as soccer, cricket, volleyball, ball hockey, and basketball. The best part is, they're free and happen right here at our school. 

You have to be a U of T student or 2011 - 2012 Athletics and Recreation Centre member. To play, you can sign up as an individual or gather an all-star team of your friends. Registration begins the beginning of each semester. Visit the UTSC athletics centre for more information.]

Back to my story!

Of course, I didn't know anything about interhouse nor did I know anyone on the team very well. After much deliberation, I pulled out my indoor soccer shoes cluttered beneath my closet and told the Facebook guy i'd meet him at the gym on Tuesday.

Game day rolled around.

Even at the beginning of my second year at UTSC, I was still getting used to the campus. I wasn't fully comfortable with entering a place I didn't know much about - this included the UTSC gym.

I walked to the gym, pulled out my T-card, and past the turnstiles. I immediately heard yelling and cheering. I looked to my right, through the tiny windows of the gym doors, and saw a bunch of soccer players and fans watching intense five on five action. 

The ball was bouncing every which way, players aggressively fighting to score a goal, and fans cheering from the benches. 

I was intimidated. 

My next initial move was to enter the gym and start warming up with my team. But - I didn't.

I turned around and left.

Yes, I was a huge loser. I chickened out. 

Like many of you, I wasn't comfortable with the space or the players I didn't know.

The next day I got a message from a girl on my outdoor soccer team saying, she was on that interhouse team I was supposed to play for. I told her I was hesitant on going, but she said to come with her to the next game. 

Fast forward to next Tuesday. Going with her made me a lot more comfortable. I saw the guy who messaged me on Facebook and briefly introduced myself before he threw a pinny at me, saying it's time to warm up.

I only knew a few names on my team, but I did my best to remember.

The game was fast pace and I did my best to keep up. The majority of the league consisted of male dominated players. For this reason, any girl who scores, their goal counts as two.  So, the last couple minutes of the game my team kept passing to me - saying to go for the net and score. For my first game, I believe I held my own pretty well.

I can't remember if we won or lost, but I do recall my relief when it was over. 

I continued going to interhouse each week and got to know more soccer players at the school. I quickly learned the small community I was becoming a part of.

Becoming well-known in the UTSC soccer community, I was asked to play in indoor soccer tournaments at UTM and Humber College. It's a wonderful thing when you get involved with the school, different opportunities present themselves to you.

If you'd like to join interhouse - message me and let me know. I'd be more than happy to introduce you to players and make you part of a team.  No one wants to be the chicken who leaves before giving the game a go.

Construction at UTSC begins for aquatic facility

With the 2011 Pan Am Games having wrapped up in Guadalajara Mexico, it's Toronto's turn to take the world stage. As host of the 2015 Pan Am Games, the city is getting ready to build five state-of-the-art athletic facilities.

One being built at our UTSC campus.

I talked to students and one of the directors for the 2015 Pan Am Games, Jason Fellen, to discuss the progress of the world-class aquatic centre.

It's hunting season

The tenth annual UTSC Duck Hunt took place at Varsity Arena Friday Oct. 28. The men’s UTSC tri-campus hockey team faced rivals UTM.

Every year, the first time the two teams play each other – it’s a fierce battle of East vs. West. Both teams laced their skates in front of a crowd of U of T students and supporters.

UTSC took the title last year and was prepared to defend it. A florescent red sign hung on the glass beside the UTSC bench reading, “The Cup Stays Home.”

The name Duck Hunt refers to the 80’s video game, where shooters aim at soaring ducks. In this case, the ducks are metaphorically UTM’s mascot. An eagle.

This year was the first time I've attended the Duck Hunt event. To my surprise, it started ten years ago to boost school spirit and celebrate hockey players within U of T.

A few UTSC alumni told me that a few years ago, this event used to be huge. It brought out larger crowds and was the most talked about event. This year, there still was a number of people who showed their support (around 50-60) with colourful signs, Duck Hunt shirts, and cowbells - but I believe this event can be attract a larger crowd with more publicity.

Some suggested it would be a great idea to make the Duck Hunt a homecoming event for UTSC.

Photo cred: Greg Danko

I took my seat just in time for the first puck drop. The game started with fast pace and full of energy from both teams.

Brodie Fitzpatrick, #16, scored the first goal with a one timer in the first. 

UTM came back, scoring a lucky goal through the five-hole of UTSC goalie Trevor Carozza, #30, making both teams scrounge for the puck until the third.  

Fitzpatrick striked again as the time whined down in the game, making UTSC lead 2-1.

As both teams filled the penalty box with seconds to go, the determination and strive of UTSC paid off as the game ended with the final score of 2-1 for UTSC.

Currently, the entire Duck Hunt series stands 5 wins for UTSC and 5 wins for UTM.

Indeed, the cup stayed home.

Photo cred: Greg Danko

EVAN VAREY

Major: Environmental Science

Year: Second
Position: Defence

Why did you join the hockey team? 
I got dragged into it by Danko (former SCHPA president) after Frosh week. I met Carozza (the goalie), a couple years ago and he saw me at campus the first week and told me to come out in my first year. And now I’m here.

Best part of being part of the team? 
All the guys are so much fun. Guys like Danko, make my day.

TREVOR CAROZZA

Major: French specialist

Year: Third
Position: Goalie

Why did you join the hockey team? 
I’ve been playing hockey ever since I was a little kid. I wasn’t ready to quit yet. I feel like my best years are still ahead of me. I’ve met a lot of great people in this program, so that’s what’s it’s good for too.

Best part of being part of the team? 
Good atmosphere. Anyone who hasn’t played a sport or been on a team, it’s like another family, another set of friends. Hockey players are their own special breed, so we all get along

Do you find the team conflicts with school? 
No, I wish we had more hockey, more practice time, more games because nothing compares to the feeling when you get on the ice.

Any pre-game traditions? 
I always get dressed in the same order, right pad always goes on before the left, right skate always goes on before my left. Same warm up, same stretches, same everything. Nothing changes.

Q/A with former SCHPA president Greg Danko

"Danko! Danko! Danko!"

Last year, when I joined the UTSC girls hockey team, I constantly heard this name around campus. I had no idea who this "Danko" was, nor what he did or why he was well known. All I knew, if I had any questions about UTSC hockey - talk to Danko.

It wasn't until I introduced myself to him at a practice last year, I found out he's the SCHPA (Scarborough Campus Hockey Players Association) president. As a recent Geography and City Studies graduate, he not only played Tri-Campus hockey for 5 years, but also contributed an immense amount to UTSC and SCHPA - organizing events, recruiting players, fundraising, and probably conquering the world on his free time.

As the assistant coach to the girls hockey team, I sat down with Danko (who's known mostly by his last name) after our practice and talked with him about his past accomplishments and what he's up to since graduation.

How did you get started in UTSC athletics?

I've played hockey since I was eight. I played single A from the age of ten 'till my last year of high school. But, I didn't start playing for my high school team until grade eleven. I thought, man, I should have started playing in grade nine. That was a real eye opener. After high school I thought, I should continue playing hockey. So, when I came to [UTSC], the first week of class I looked on the website how I can try-out for the teams and, first week of school I was at hockey tryouts. 

How did get involved the SCHPA?

My very first year of hockey at UTSC there was a guy on the Tri-Campus team, his name was Ryan Parker. He was in his fourth or fifth year. Him and a few other players started the SCHPA as a way to have community between the [boys and girls hockey] teams.  Besides practice, you didn’t really see teams that much, and the initial goal of the club was to do pub nights in the attic, fitness classes, and fundraising together. 

A year went by and Trevor Robson became president and I became the publicity rep. In my third year, after [Robson] left, there was no one else to take over. I got stuck being president in my fourth year and it went from there. 

Last year was my fifth year. I had a lot of time for extra curricular and thought there was an opportunity to do more. As it turns out, I’m studying this at Durham College [at the moment], stuff I literally did for the past two years. I’m studying Sports Business Management. I went from City Studies, to more athletics. I’ve never had an office job - everything I’ve done is sports related. I wanted to see what this was like [as a career].

You've won plenty athletic awards from UTSC, which mean the most to you?

The past two years, I was awarded the Athletic Leadership Award for hockey. I was also inducted into the UTSC Hockey Hall of Fame this past April. I received the Letter Award from the Department of Student Life. That one was big because only 4 graduating students got it that year - it outlines the outstanding contribution and significance into forwarding student involvement on campus. 

What has been your biggest accomplishment at UTSC?

Awards were sort of a symbol of  the accomplishments. I think bringing [SCHPA] together and seeing new leaders take shape on other teams was the biggest accomplishment. It dawned on me one night. I’m a role model. It took a little bit of process. I didn’t see myself as that. I was just a guy who was bored and wanted to do these things for SCHPA. People really looked up to me and took an interest in what I was doing. Not even that, they are interested in carrying it on. 

What advice do you have for students who want to join hockey on campus?

Get involved early. When I started coaching the boys B team, there was a whole group of them that came together, and within 2 years the whole team had graduated. A lot of them didn’t play first year ‘cause they didn't know hockey existed on campus. A lot of these guys regretted it. I say, from the start, get interested. I was active at frosh, recruiting, handing out flyers, wearing jerseys, grabbing players - because that’s how I was recruited. Ryan Parker, the guy who started SCHPA, wasn’t supposed to be [at my frosh], but he stole a table amongst all the clubs. Someone approached me asking if I played sports. When I said yes, they told me to go talk to the guy at the patio:

Parker: Come to hockey tryouts next Tuesday.

Danko: Okay.

Parker: What position do you play?

Danko: Goalie.

Parker: Good. We need goalies.

That's how I got recruited. I want to continue doing that. 

I always see you with a UTSC shirt, hat, or track-pant - how many pieces of UTSC clothing do you own?

Upwards, in the neighbourhood of 40 articles of athletic clothing from UTSC. They include tournament T-shirts, interhouse stuff, or SCHPA/SCAA events.

What can you tell us about the upcoming Duck Hunt event?

It's a fun event. Everyone comes out has a great time. DJ MK will be there, he's a UTSC DJ, spinning at the Athletic Banquet and Boat cruise. Tri-Campus boys are a good team this year, they won their first game 8-1. I’m going to bring an Argo horn, some signs, and cowbells. Plus, if you come - you get a free t-shirt!

Another one to add to your collection?

You bet.

ABOUT DUCK-HUNT:

Cheer on the Men's UTSC Tri-Campus team in their game against UTM (admission price: FREE!).

• Bus leaves from UTSC Athletics Centre at 7:30 p.m. Friday Oct. 28.
• You receive a free duck hunt T-shirt, beverage and popcorn
• Game starts at 9 p.m.
• Music and give-aways during the game, plus a 50/50 draw.
• More info on Duck Hunt, click here.

Instructional class experiment - Part 2

Mixed emotions of nerves and excitement overwhelmed me as I entered the UTSC dance studio Monday afternoon. I took my first EVER instructional class at UTSC - belly dancing.

The only minuscule knowledge I have of this Middle Eastern tradition is watching any music video by Shakira. I'm truly a rookie when it comes to shaking any sort of body part and keeping a rhythm.

The dance instructor, Zahra, started off with stretches to warm the body. Shaking our legs, moving our hands and arms on a yoga mat, making sure our body was ready for the routine.

Yes. Routine.

She turned on "Tonight I'm Lovin' You" by Enrique Iglesias and said to get into our first position.

F.Y.I - I'm 4 weeks behind the class. I had to catch up to their routine in less then an hour.

Find out my final results in the video below.

Shakira doesn't even know.