Emily Goernert

What education have you taken?

I graduate with a Bachelor of Physical Education Studies in May 2013.

What accomplishment are you proud of?

This year I have had the opportunity to participate in a variety of organizations.  I am most proud of my work with the Brandon University Woman’s Volleyball team as the student athletic trainer, President of the Brandon University Physical Education Club and the Hockey Brandon Referee Development Committee.  I am honoured to have earned the respect and trust of the BU student athletes and the coaching staff.  The experiences gained on the court and in the classroom have encouraged me to pursue a degree in athletic training.  As a young female hockey official, I was recognized as the Most Improved Official in 2012.  This award allowed me to recognize my potential as a female official, inspires me to fine-tune my skills and supports my work on the referee development committee.  As President of the Brandon University Physical Education Club, I am most proud of just being me.  I have learned to motivate, encourage and support the BU community.

Tell me about yourself/ your background/ your history.

I was born in Mankato, Minnesota, spent every summer between Cape Hatteras, North Carolina and Montreal and moved to Brandon when I was 12.  From the beginning I played hockey.  No other sport mattered.  Every weekend, my Dad and I would be off travelling to a different town, a different rink.  When I starting playing goalie, I can remember my Dad watching from behind the net.  Keeping stats on all the games!  My Mom would be with my younger sister and brother, taking them to their activities.  We would spend our summers together at our favourite beach, learning how to surf and visiting family in Montreal.  I continue to play hockey, I have earned my Level III hockey official status and enjoy photography.  This spring I will graduate from university and I’m not sure where next.  I do know, however, that I plan on continuing my studies.

How did you become interested in your field of study?

When I was 15, I participated in a program called Activate.  Activate is a national youth leadership program that inspires, trains, and supports youth leaders to improve the lives of youth in their communities through sport and physical activity.  With this experience it seemed only fitting that I enroll in the physical education program. I understood sports, I enjoyed playing sports and I wanted to pursue a career that incorporated physical activity and community involvement.

What is your philosophy in life?

My philosophy in life is that shared by my grandmothers – respect others and you to shall be respected.

Where do you see yourself in the future?

In the future I see myself very involved in my community.  I hope to be working with youth, staying active and always willing to try something new.

Nominator’s Comments

Emily is doing an outstanding job as president of the Brandon University Physical Education Club.  She is extremely hard working, very energetic and enthusiastic about “everything”.