Friday, December 1, 2017

Part of a regular series.

Throughout the year, GNACsports.com uses this space to profile conference student-athletes who are members of their respective institutions' Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). In addition to providing feedback on the student-athlete experience, conference and institutional SAAC members also offer input on the rules, regulations, and policies that affect student-athletes' lives on NCAA member institution campuses. Click here for more information on the function of SAAC at the NCAA level.

Name: Sidney Peake
Sport: Swimming
School: Simon Fraser
Year: Senior
Major:Curriculum & Instruction, Early Learning (Education)
Hometown:Delta, B.C.

Extracurricular Activities: Volunteering with Special Olympics, member of SAAC and Education Student Association.

Why Did You Choose To Attend Simon Fraser: I wanted to attend a school in the NCAA but I also wanted to pursue education as my degree. I knew that if I wanted to teach in Canada, I had to complete my teaching degree in Canada. Simon Fraser was the best of both worlds.

What Is Your Favorite Class You Have Taken In College And Why: I took an Ethics in Education course. This course was really interesting to me as it challenged many ideas that I thought to be true. It made me become more critical of my own education and to think about the bigger picture of education as a structure, a right and a lifestyle.

Who Is Your Favorite Professor You've Had In College And What Did You Enjoy About Learning From Him Or Her: I really enjoyed having Maureen Hoskyn. She taught two courses for me: language acquisition and learning disabilities. I found her teaching strategy to be amazing. She looked to us as peers and included us in her upcoming research with her. She was learning alongside us.

Years Involved In SAAC: 1

The Reason I Chose To Get Involved In SAAC: I have a passion for community service and I wanted to influence the rest of SFU athletics to get up and give back to the community that supports us.

Most Memorable SAAC Activity: We just completed Operation Christmas Child. There were over 30 athletes from all our teams that came together to provide the fixings of over 54 boxes to children around the world that were in need.

What Is The Most Important Thing You've Learned From Balancing The Demands Of Athletics And Academics: I learned from very early on that it is important to surround yourself with a community that supports, encourages and challenges you to be the best you can be in all areas of your life!

What Does It Mean To Be A Division II Student-Athlete: I am so proud to be a Division II student-athlete.

Future Goals After School: I am aiming to become a Kindergarten teacher in British Columbia. My greater goal, however, is to make sure that all students, regardless of ability, race, culture or gender, receive all the opportunities they can.

Biggest Obstacle Overcome During Collegiate Career: In October of my senior year, I was in a car accident on my way to class. I spent two weeks out of the water. I am still recovering and seeking rehab. My team has supported me and encouraged me to get back in the pool and racing!

Best Advice I’d Give To An Incoming Freshman: Study while you can! Don't stop reading.

If I Could Spend The Day With One Person (Past Or Present), Who Would It Be (And Why): Lauren Diehl. She is my current teammate. She is crazy sweet and has a golden personality. She challenges me to be who I am and not to care about what others think.

Favorite Athlete: Annamay Pierse (Canadian Olympic swimmer)

One Thing That People Don't Know About Me Is: I have an unhealthy addiction to coffee!