Sarah uses volleyball and the gym to support her mental health. From Grade 5 volleyball to club teams, intramurals, beach volleyball, injuries and sports-event work at McMaster, movement gives her mood, focus and community.
Sarah started playing volleyball in Grade 5 and quickly fell in love with the sport.
She played through middle school, high school, house league, and eventually two years on a competitive club team before going to university. Today, she continues to play intramurals, has picked up beach volleyball, and spends more time in the gym.
“Physical activity plays a huge role in my life,” Sarah says.
For Sarah, volleyball has always been about the team. “I have made so many friends through the sport,” she says, “and each team I have been a part of has felt like a small community.”
That community includes her sister Natalie. The two were photographed together in 2020 through Canadian Women & Sport and Galaxy Volleyball, and volleyball became part of their shared story as sisters and teammates.
Over the past few years, the gym has become another important space for Sarah. She focuses on lifting, cardio, and stretching, using all three to support overall health. But the gym is not only physical. It has become a safe space where she can take her mind off personal stress and focus on herself.
“As someone who struggles with her mental health, being active is something I can rely on to make me feel good,” she says. “I can always rely on the gym or volleyball to boost my mood.”
Sarah has also had to learn when not to push. Volleyball and lifting have brought injuries, including pulled muscles and lower back issues. Those setbacks taught her to respect recovery and listen to her body.
“An important life lesson is knowing when and how far to push your limits,” she says.
Even though she no longer plays volleyball competitively, Sarah has stayed close to the sport at McMaster University, where she works in event staff and specializes in volleyball statistics. It keeps her connected to the game while growing her interest in sports and business.
Sarah moves for mental health.