Julia Black '23 On Her First Year of SMU Basketball and the 2023 Indigenous Games
Julia Black ‘23 is playing basketball for Saint Mary’s University while pursuing her Bachelor of Science. Over the past year, she was named the 2023-24 SMU Rookie of the Year, won the AUS Championship, and scored a 47 point game in the 2023 North American Indigenous Games. We caught up with Julia about her first year of University, her experience in the Indigenous Games, and her goals for the future.
Where are you currently going to school / playing basketball?
Saint Mary’s University.
What program are you taking?
Bachelor of Science, Major in Psychology, Minor in Biology.
What is the most exciting part of your first year of university?
The most exciting part of my year would definitely have to be winning an AUS Championship with my team and having the opportunity to play at the National Championship week.
What was your experience like playing in the North American Indigenous Games? And how did that opportunity come to be?
I was approached by one of my friends from the Saint Mary’s team who was also Indigenous, and she told me about the games and I instantly became interested. I think having the games hosted in Halifax is something that made my experience way better as many of my family, friends, and community were able to support me in person! Although we didn’t come across with a win, I was definitely still able to showcase my skills and meet many new people. Although playing was a big part of the week, the cultural teachings, activities and experiences were something I will never forget. I was able to learn so much about my culture in so little time and it was eye opening to how much more there is to be learned!
How did Grammar impact or inspire you in academics and/or basketball? Was there a specific teacher or coach that inspired you?
Grammar created an environment which majorly emphasized “student-athlete”. Excelling in school always comes as first priority to sports and is something many may oftentimes dismiss. I am grateful for all of the teachers at Grammar who provided me with extra support and help on guiding me through my high school years. In terms of basketball, Grammar gave me the opportunity to start playing on a high school team in Grade 9, and I will always believe this carried one of the biggest impacts on me as an athlete.
What are your future goals?
Following my university career I am currently interested in studying sports psychology, travelling, and possibly playing pro.
Do you have advice for students looking to take the same path either as a professional athlete or pursuing a dream?
- Understand that not everything is going to happen right away. We are given 5 years of eligibility for a reason!!
- Find a way to turn negative thoughts/feedback into motivation.
- Surround yourself with people who have the same/similar intentions and goals as you.
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Julia Black '23 at the North American Indigenous Games
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