Evette Petherick

1. Five words you can use to describe yourself on the court.

• Focused
• Determined
• Positive
• Passionate
• Powerful

2. Five words you can use to describe yourself off the court.

• Loyal
• Organized
• Respectful
• Trustworthy
• Supportive

3. Describe how you work in a team with your partners.

Working well with a team is one of the most important parts of being a volleyball player. Having a positive and supportive attitude helps me to build a strong bond with my teammates and being consistent and accountable is also key. After every point, no matter if it’s a win or loss, I work to encourage others while listening for feedback for improvement. Ensuring my personal goals are in line with the team’s goals is also important for both my individual and team success.

4. Athletic highlights and how you felt when you received them.

2018- School Cup of Overall Excellence- awarded for overall excellence in academics, athletics, and leadership

2019- Durham Attack Achievement of Excellence Award

2019- Dr. Hawkins School Volleyball Award

2019- Dr. Hawkins School Track Award

2020- Dr. Hawkins School Volleyball Award

2020- Ontario Volleyball Association Award of Excellence

I have felt honoured by each award I have been chosen for and thankful to all those who helped me achieve them, including my coaches, teachers, parents, and teammates. The OVA Award of Excellence award was particularly special for me to receive because I had sustained an injury at the beginning of that season and had to work really hard to get back on the court and make up for lost time. The experience helped me to grow as a teammate and athlete.

5. Involvement in other sports or extra-curricular. Why is it important for you?

Before Covid, besides volleyball, I played rugby, ultimate frisbee, soccer, and track and field. Being involved in many activities is important to me because it gives me the opportunity to learn new skills, experience different types of team dynamics, and I get to meet new people and build new relationships.

6. What are your interests outside of sports? Why do you like them?

One of my main interests outside of sports is academic achievement. I am extremely motivated in school and set high expectations for myself. I also enjoy camping because it provides me with an opportunity to slow down and recharge my batteries, while also spending quality time with my family and making many enjoyable memories. Also, I have a love for music which I express through learning instruments, most recently, the clarinet.

7. Who are your role models and why?

My role model in volleyball is Katheryn Plummer. I remember watching her in a game where she made five hitting errors in a row but came back to dominate the rest of the match. This was a perfect demonstration of mental strength. It also showed me that every player at every level makes mistakes and that it is how you deal with them that is important for success. Going to see Kathryn play in the NCAA Championships in Pittsburg was one of the best experiences and inspired me to dream big.

8. Academic highlights and how you felt when you received them.

2018-present- Honour roll

2019- Music Award

2021- Highest mark in Grade 9 Academic English

These achievements made me feel proud and thankful, and shown me that my hard work has paid off.

9. What program would you like to attend in school?

I have not fully decided on a program so I am keeping my options open with my high school course selections but psychology is a strong possibility.

10. How do you envision your school life in college/university?

I envision my school life in college/university to set the foundation for my life going forward. I hope to find a school that supports my drive for academic achievement as well as my passion for volleyball, while gaining valuable skills for my future career and relationships. I also hope my college/university experience will challenge me to learn more about myself and help me to find the best path for my life. I also hope to be active and involved in my school’s community both through sport and beyond.