Léanne has been playing for two years with the Patriotes badminton team. Even if his sporting performances are notable, it is above all his academic excellence that impresses. Between her studies in psychology and her regular training, she has found a remarkable balance, standing out positively in each of these areas of her life.
His first steps in badminton
She discovered badminton in CEGEP, during a physical education class. At that time, she devoted herself entirely to her studies and her academic results, and felt the need to invest in a new sport. As she demonstrated great skills, she was selected by the Diablos team at Cégep de Trois-Rivières, where she developed for a year. Since then, she has continued to play and evolve in badminton, which allows her to maintain an essential balance in her life.
“Bringing sports into my life has really allowed me to be better at taking care of myself and having other goals than just school. »
Despite her late arrival in the field, Léanne had set herself the objective of integrating the Patriotes structure as soon as she joined UQTR. Surrounded by more experienced athletes, she managed to carve out a place in the university lineup and became a key player in her second year in the program.
She is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychologya field that fascinates her, but which remains demanding. Curious and motivated, she wants to deepen her studies while remaining on the badminton team for at least three more years. Unlike many student-athletes, Léanne sees sport as a complement to her university life. This approach allows him to better juggle the different spheres of his daily life, to better establish his priorities and to stand out both academically and within his team.
“I am already a very disciplined and hardworking person in my studies. Sport is a plus in my schedule, it allows me to think about something other than school and to see people. »
A versatile veteran on a small team
This year, the women’s badminton squad is particularly limited. Léanne is one of the few veterans, and the team does not have enough student-athletes to play all the matches during the tournaments. To compensate for this lack, she plays both doubles and singles, even if she prefers duo events. A reality experienced by several UQTR players and which complicates both performance and motivation, since athletes struggle to stand out in a demanding university circuit.
Léanne therefore takes a lot of initiative to maintain the cohesion of the group:
“Often, I encourage girls to come practice as a team or play together outside of practice hours. It helps them stay motivated and focused, while having fun. »
However, she reminds us of the importance of not putting too much pressure on ourselves and of aiming above all for collective performance.
The Patriots spirit above all
Starting next winter, she will spend a five-month study session in Toulouse. An experience that she looks forward to with enthusiasm, but which also gives her the impression of leaving her team behind. As the team goes through a more difficult season and plays a central role, being away for several months represents an emotional challenge.
“Maybe it’s my values as a psychology student, but I want to stay up to date with what’s going on in the team during the session. Everyone knows that I remain available to help, even from a distance. »
For Léanne, the strength of the Patriotes lies in the team spirit and the chemistry between the athletes. Although badminton may seem individual, she wouldn’t be as motivated to play or put in as much time without the people around her.
A committed and dedicated veteran, Léanne always gives the best of herself, whether on the field or in her classes. She will continue to develop during her session abroad in order to come back ready for next season. Until then, the badminton team will be in action on January 17 and 18 at the Léopold-Gagnon Physical and Sports Activity Center for its fourth competition of the season. A great opportunity to come and encourage our Patriots.
A text by Sarah-Maude Ritchot
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