WEEK #14: ASHLEY STEPHENSON

Please tell us a little bit about yourself.

I was born and raised in Mississauga. My family was always very active. My mom, dad and younger brother all played multiple sports, so I was lucky enough to be introduced to them at an early age. I started playing hockey and baseball at a very young age and fell in love with both sports. I also played multiple other sports in elementary and secondary school including, basketball, soccer, rugby, field hockey, and volleyball. Sports have always been a huge part of my life. I have been an athlete, coach, and even an official. I turned my love for being active into a career! I have been a high school physical education teacher for 12 years.

Please share a story about an internal or external barrier you have faced.

Sports are something I love to do. The have helped guide me through some of the toughest times in my life and I have met some of the best mentors and have friends for life because of sports. My dad passed away suddenly when I was eight years old. It turned our life upside down in an instant. It was very difficult coping with the loss of a parent but I always found joy in playing sports. No matter how bad my day was, when I got on the ice or diamond, I had fun and didn’t worry about anything else going on in my life. Sports and the amazing people I have met through playing them have changed my life.

How did you overcome that barrier? What skills did you develop in sport to help you overcome your barrier?

I have been fortunate enough to have so much support in my life. The saying “it takes a village to raise a family” comes to mind when I think about my childhood. I grew up with fantastic neighbors who would help our family with anything we needed. I had supportive teammates and their parents who helped get me to and from practices, games and tournaments when my mom had to take my brother to his activities. I had teachers who believed in me and pushed me to accomplish more and want better for myself. And I had coaches who took on parenting roles at times in my life. I often wonder where I would be without all of these people and their guidance.

If you had one word to describe your character, experiences or philosophy what would it be? Why?

WARRIOR

I have always been determined to be the best I can at everything I do! My dad was a very focused man and my mom is the hardest working person I have ever met, so my role models growing up were

exceptional. I always wanted to make my parents proud. They had high expectations of my brother and I, but they supported us while we were trying to achieve our goals. I truly believe one person can make a difference, whether that is in one other person’s life or multiple lives. I am determined to pay it forward. I know I was blessed with so many special people who helped me (and didn’t have to) so I want to do the same for others. This is the main reason I chose to become a teacher. I want young people to believe in themselves and chase their dreams. If I can help them accomplish their goals, I find that extremely rewarding. I don’t ever take for granted the impact a coach or teacher can have on an individual. It’s a career I am proud to have.

If you wanted to motivate a young female athlete to #BuildHerUp, what quote would you use? Why?

I love inspirational quotes and read them regularly, but one that has stuck with me is…

“There is no glory in practice, but without practice there is no glory.”

This fits my motto of hard work and determination. Nothing worthwhile comes easy or should be taken for granted. You have to work hard for opportunities you want to create for yourself. This is true in school, in sports, in life. If you work hard and are a good person, you will be rewarded. That doesn’t mean you will always get what you want, but you will have no regrets. I try to live my life like that.

Twitter handle: @PEstevie  |  Instagram: @pestevie