WEEK #52: HANNAH G.

Please tell us a little bit about yourself.

Hi! My name Hannah Gougeon and I am in my fourth year of my undergrad in sport management at Brock University. I grew up in Peterborough Ontario as a competitive dancer and a cheerleader for my high school. My siblings played high-level volleyball growing up which influenced me to be the sport manager that I have become today. I now love running and spending time with my family and friends. In November 2019, a peer and I started a club at Brock University called SHEMA (Sport Helps Everyone Make Allies) this club has been my passion project over the last year and has definitely changed my view on sport and the sport industry.

Who is a role model to you? Why? 

My parents are definitely my biggest role model. I was lucky enough to grow up with parents who always supported and loved me. They work so hard and inspire me every day to become the best version of myself. They help me through any struggles I may have, and they celebrate all of the wins with me. They truly do show me that being a good person and working hard is the best thing you can do.

What do you do to give back to your sport community? Why is it important?   

My club SHEMA (Sport Helps Everyone Make Allies) at Brock University is focused on gender equity and the inclusion of diverse social groups. Throughout the last year, we have advocated for

creating a more diverse and inclusive environment for everyone in the sport industry and within sport management. We have advocated for courses surrounding diversity and inclusion which will begin to be implemented in the fall of 2021. We have implemented a peer-to-peer partnership program where upper-year students aid younger year students throughout their undergraduate experience. We have also worked to create a more open experience between professors and students through events that connect and create a relationship other than in the classroom. Our focus is on making sure individuals feel included and valued in sport.

What advice do you have for parents, coaches or sport administrators to encourage or improve sport for females?

I think the best advice to give parents, coaches or sport administrators is to look for those who are uncomfortable or those who are nervous to get involved and talk to them. Ask them why they feel like that and support them. Acknowledging that the young females’ feelings surrounding sport and supporting those feelings can go a long way. I always like to think that you cannot help if you do not know what the problem is and why it is occurring. So, I urge parents, coaches and administrators to be aware of those who may not be the most comfortable with sport and help the young athlete get past those barriers.

What is a quote that motivates you?

A quote that motivates me is “work hard and something good will happen” – it reminds me that regardless of what happens, as long as you work hard something will eventually happen that is positive and meaningful. Whether that be making someone smile or feeling accomplished, something positive will eventually happen.