Get to know our athlete in today’s profile – Powerchair Soccer player Ana Lu! Ana is a dedicated powerchair soccer player with the Vancouver Lightning team, and has travelled around the world playing international competitions. Read on as she introduces herself and shares her knowledge and experience about the sport!
Q: How long have you been playing Powerchair Soccer? And what made you decide to start playing?
A: I’ve been playing for over 10 years. A friend of mine told me to come out and try it.
Q: Do you have any favorite sports teams?
A: Not really. Just the Vancouver Lightning!
Q: Do you have a favorite competition or practice moment?
A: Going to Paris for the World Cup, but also recently Defi Sportif 2015. I was really proud of the team and how well they performed at Defi Sportif.
Q: Do you have any tips and tricks for competition prep?
A: Health is first! Get lots of rest leading up and eat well. Second, don’t stress too much and remember to enjoy the experience.
Q: What motivates you to work hard?
A: Seeing my teammates grow and succeed. I want to do my best to develop up and coming players to represent Canada in the future.
Q: Any advice for potential new athletes?
A: It can be a pretty steep learning curve, but stick with it. Once you get over the first bump (e.g. learning the basics) it gets easier.
Q: Do you have a favorite travel moment?
A: Our most recent trip to Montreal was a lot of fun. We had a good group of people travelling with us and many laughs were had.
Q: If you could live anywhere, where would it be?
A: VANCOUVER. Can’t beat home!
Q: If you were trapped on a deserted island, who would you want with you?
A: My sister. She’s fun and I don’t get tired of her. Haha.
Q: Who is your hero?
A: Everyone around me. We all have to overcome obstacles and everyone can lead as an example to keep trekking along.
Q: What do you like to do in your spare time?
A: Browse Reddit. It’s new to me but seems to have everything!!
Q: Do you have a funny story to share?
A: One time, many, many years ago while I was doing my classification for soccer, I managed to wedge the soccer ball in the underside of my chair. All on my own I flipped my entire chair over and landed sideways on the gym floor. It still gets brought up…
Q: If you could describe yourself in three words, what would they be and why?
A: Instinctual: I play based on instinct a lot. See, react, and execute.
Passionate: I really want to perform well and invest a lot emotionally.
Attentive: I like to be aware of where all the players on the field are. Also it’s important to take note of errors so we can all continue to improve.
Q: Do you have a favourite saying or quote to live by?
A: Hmm… I’m not much for quotes but I encourage everyone to have fun and enjoy what they’re doing.
Q: What is your favourite movie/book/song?
A: I’m indecisive and fickle. I like lighthearted, funny movies, adventure books, and catchy songs.
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