Manitoba's Credit Unions Scholar Athlete

Mia Sawatsky of W.C. Miller Collegiate – participated in cross country, soccer, volleyball, basketball, badminton, and track and field. She was the school’s JV and varsity female athlete of the year and maintained an academic average of 95% while being on the school’s honour roll. She is a member of the student council and ran the school’s intramural program this past year. Mia volunteers at the Regional Connections Program, is a lifeguard and swim instructor at the local pool, has volunteered as an art gallery attendant, and coaches Timbits soccer for grade two students. Mia helps with the Jackrabbits program for cross country skiing and represented Team Manitoba in cross country skiing at Canada Cups, Canada Winter Games, Nationals, and the World Junior Trials. 

Mia states: “The biggest benefit of my high school sports experience was how it created a positive outlet for me to be socially active while meeting my desire to be a competitive athlete. I always looked forward to practices, games, or riding the bus with my team. It also allowed me to compete, work hard, and develop as a person by strengthening my mind and muscles. It has taught me how to be an effective leader and a good teammate by developing strong relationships with my peers, some of whom I would not have talked to otherwise. This creates a positive team and school environment. High school sports have also taught me to have a positive attitude in every situation no matter the outcome even after I miss a shot. Developing a successful mindset in sports will serve me well in my short and long-term goals throughout any aspect of my life. Sports have made my high school experience unforgettable. It has played a huge role in the person I am today and taught me critical skills that can be used in life after sport.”