Kiara Dalla Pasqua

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

• Focused
• Enthusiastic
• Persistent
• Fast
• Adaptable

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

• Empathetic
• Amicable
• Collaborative
• Resilient
• Social

Describe how you work in a team with your partners.

When I am a part of a team, I honour everyone the same. My partners are my priority just as much as I am my own priority. The key is communication, both on and off the court.  Trying to figure each team member’s strengths and weaknesses is just as important as trying to figure out our opponent’s strengths and weaknesses. I prioritize strengthening our weaknesses and embracing our strengths. I make sure tasks are being fulfilled and that we are not slipping away from our goals. I’m constantly encouraging and helping my partners when needing a different point of perspective to obtain our goals.

An athletic highlight for me is coming 2^nd in cross-country. I was fairly new to the sport and was scared. Crossing the finish line in 2^nd place proved to myself I can do anything when I keep pushing. It gave me confidence in myself and my athletic abilities. Another athletic highlight for me is winning Gold in my first major American vxolleyball tournament. It was so exciting to be so far away from home. Winning the tournament felt 10x better being a team from a different country. I felt proud of my team and how far we have come.

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

What interests me the most is spending time outside. I often go on hikes around Hamilton’s many trails or hang out at the beach. Being outside brings me a sense of calm and beauty. My favourite thing to do lately is go for a walk during the sunset and listen to music. It gives me a euphoric feeling.

Who are your role models and why?

One of my role models is my cousin. She is someone I have always looked up to. She is also athletic and smart. She has taught me how to balance between work and pleasure. She knows how to light up a room and can give the best feedback.

Involvement in other sports or extracurricular. Why is it important for you?

Being diverse can help elevate you and your game. Involvement in other sports helps me develop useful skills for volleyball and everyday tasks. Being involved in a variety of sports and extra-curricular activities also introduces me to new people and open up new opportunities for me.

Academic highlights and how you felt when you received them?

Seeing my name on the Honour Roll list in grade 9 made me feel accomplished. I worked so hard to study harder and focus more in class. Accomplishing what you worked for is the best feeling ever. And then to continuously keep an Honour Roll status through out grades 10 and 11, made all my hard work completely worth it.

What program would you like to attend in school?

I would like to attend a program in Business Administration.

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

I envision myself being the happiest I have ever been. Consistently making ‘colourful’ notes and encouraging myself to review them after each lesson. Working hard when I can, in between workouts, practices and games. I know the challenges may be difficult at times, but my resilience, dedication and willingness to put in the work will carry me toward success.  I can envision myself meeting many new people and creating promising friendships and being a valuable member of a team or study group. 

Cathedral High School, Hamilton, Ontario

Would like to pursue a degree in Business Administration

• Class of 2023
• 87% average
• Honour Roll student – Grades 9, 10 and 11
• Academic Awards in Biology and English