Mathew McVeigh – Fulcrum Contributor
Photo Courtesy of Krista Draycott
MEET KRISTA DRAYCOTT: an Ontario University Athletics (OUA) championship player and striker for the U of O Gee-Gees women’s varsity soccer team, who is also in her third year as a nursing student.
The Fulcrum: What are you studying in university and why?
Krista Draycott: I have completed a bachelor in human kinetics and I am now in nursing. I chose these programs because of my love for sports and my passion for helping people recover from injury or illness.
Why did you choose to attend the University of Ottawa?
I chose to attend the University of Ottawa because I wanted to stay at home and because of the great reputation of the women’s varsity soccer program.
What has been your biggest honour?
My biggest honour has been being able to represent my school and be part of an OUA championship team.
After graduating, what will you miss the most?
I will miss being part of the soccer team, being able to play at such a high level of competition, and being surrounded by the atmosphere of the team.
What is your biggest pet peeve?
My biggest pet peeve is when people walk slowly in front of me.
My team would vote me most likely to…
My team would vote me most likely to get in trouble for wearing white spandex in the ice bath.
What is your best memory so far?
My best memory so far was the game-winning goal in overtime of the OUA championship game.
Why did you decide to become a student-athlete?
I decided to become a student-athlete because I wanted to pursue my passion for soccer at a higher level of competition, to continue to grow as a player, and to represent my school at the provincial and national level.
What are the biggest challenges you face as a student-athlete?
The biggest challenges as a student-athlete are time management and staying strong mentally.
Is there anyone or anything that you would attribute your success to?
I would attribute my success to my mom because she has always encouraged me to work hard and continue to reach my goals.
Do you have an idol? If so, who?
Alex Morgan.
What advice would you give first-year students?
To the first-years, always strive to be the best you can be. Don’t let the little failures get you down. Instead, learn from them and take every opportunity to grow as a player and as an individual.
Do you have any pre-game rituals?
My pre-game ritual is tapping the women’s soccer sign above the door before going out onto the field.
How do you deal with stress before a game?
To deal with pre-game stress, I use imagery to picture myself in the game before it starts.
Could you describe your perfect ice cream sundae?
My perfect sundae would include vanilla ice cream with hot fudge, crushed peanuts, caramel, and a cherry on top.
