Student realizes dream by joining Huskies women’s soccer team

Kalli Cowles, a fourth-year University of Saskatchewan (USask) student, has just wrapped up her fourth season with the Huskies women’s soccer team.

Originally from Prince Albert, Sask., Cowles is majoring in sociology in USask’s College of Arts and Science. In this question-and-answer feature, she discusses why she chose to study sociology and how she balances her academic and athletic commitments.

Arts and Science: Why did you choose that area of study?

Cowles: I chose sociology as my major because it’s something I really care about. There are so many different aspects to the field and areas where I’m able to learn how I can help others.

Arts and Science: Why did you want to join the Huskies?

Cowles: I joined the Huskies mainly because soccer has been a very important part of my life growing up and (USask) was close to my hometown of Prince Albert. I didn’t know much about the soccer environment until I was able to come and train with the team while I was in high school. I quickly learned that being a Huskie would be an absolute dream!

Arts and Science: What do you enjoy the most about playing soccer?

Cowles: I think I enjoy the competition the most about soccer. On the women’s soccer team, we train nine months out of the year for our two-month season. Our season is very short compared to other teams, so you really learn to appreciate every minute of every game. I love that no matter what, my team is going to battle for one another in every circumstance.

Arts and Science: What is the best part of being a student-athlete?

Cowles: The grind itself. Being a student-athlete means you’re always trying to push yourself in every aspect of your life, whether it be academics, on the pitch, in the weight room, in the community or just becoming a better person overall. The best part is that you’re able to go through all of the ups and downs with your teammates, (who) quickly become your family.

Arts and Science: How do you balance your athletic and academic commitments?

Cowles: Time management and organization is definitely a huge part. It’s not easy, but I have to set aside times on a daily basis to do certain tasks for each commitment in order to be successful in both areas. I have to find a balance to take care of my body and mind, while also pursuing academic success. 

Arts and Science: What do you do to de-stress when things get overwhelming?

Cowles: Normally, I take a nice hot bath and put on some Grey’s Anatomy while I’m at it—ha ha. Self-care, am I right? Going to the gym also works very well for me.

Arts and Science: What advice can you offer to other students who are balancing schoolwork with other activities, such as sports?

Cowles: The pressure to succeed can get pretty overwhelming, so you really need to pick times to breathe and remember how far you’ve come. You’re not going to be in school forever, so crush it out while you can! But don’t forget to make memories and enjoy yourself along the way. 

(This article is part of an ongoing series featuring Huskies student-athletes who are studying in the College of Arts and Science.)

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