Growing up, Hilary Sears wanted to be just like her sister. So when
it came time to decide which sport to play, volleyball was the natural
choice, since her sister was an avid player. She started in the eighth
grade and is the first to admit it wasnât something that came naturally.
âYou
know how sometimes you see someone play for the first time and theyâre
so naturally gifted and finessed? I wasnât one of those!â she laughs.
âBut it kept my interest because not only is it physically challenging,
itâs also very technical and strategic.â
Today, sheâs not only a
setter for the ±«Óătv Tigers, but a star student whoâs in the third
year of her mechanical engineering degree. She was honoured last month
at the Academic All-Canadian luncheon that recognizes exceptional
students who excel athletically and academically. Ms. Sears has made the
Deanâs List and received the ±«Óătv Alumni Leadership Scholarship
and the International Baccalaureate Renewable Scholarship on top of
being a celebrated athlete.
"Just breathe"
Through hard work, training from her dedicated coaches at an early age, and getting in the best physical shape possible, Ms. Sears has made the sport look effortless along with maintaining the grades that earned her an Academic All-Canadian â twice. Â
How does she do it?
âBeing so busy doesnât allow for much down time but it certainly teaches you time management,â says the Truro native. âAnd when I do have âone of those daysâ my parents are always there to lift me up and say, âJust breathe, Hilary.ââ
Although a hectic schedule doesnât always leave room to stay in the social loop, Ms. Sears enjoys spending time with her teammates who, as is the case for many athletes, quickly become like family.
âGoing to practice every day is like going to hang out with your best friends or family,â Ms. Sears says. âThereâs a sense of pride when you belong to a team that you donât get anywhere else.âÂ