Exploring Athletics & Recreation
Back in the day
When I was a student at York, I had visited Tait Mackenzie Centre once in a while -- but it was always for a brief rec drop in with classmates. I remember playing basketball and badminton in the rec gym downstairs; although I can't remember how good or bad I was at it, I recall the tag attached to our shoelaces to signal that we had a paid student pass. For anything else that was happening in A&R, as well as the varsity experience, they all remained somewhat elusive and mysterious. Perhaps I was focused on my academics and not paying attention to the extracurriculars, or was it the not being part of the right social groups, or was it simply the fear of the unknown (the weights, the technique, the sport). Perhaps I could make an excuse and say, I was a commuter and had to get back home via the TTC buses before the talk of YorkU subway stations even surfaced.
Fast forward to 2023
Now, I'm come back with a fresh perspective, and a broadened horizon on the meaning of health and wellness. I believe that we can leverage fitness, sports, recreation as a Catalyst to create communities. For York to have a pan-university vision of a one-team, one-dream for all Athletics & Recreation across our campuses.
Student-centric
What does this really mean to us and the totality of the student experience? How can we broaden A&R such that we are part of every student's journey in their academic studies, Continuing education, or other academic pursuits? How can we design a future that incorporates student feedback and enhancing overall student experience?
Becoming your new Executive Director
I am so honoured to be part of the Lion Pride. The calibre of our dedicated staff, the relentless perseverance of our student athletes, and all the supporters that have cheered us on have made this an especially welcoming experience for me. Thank you all for your warm reception, handshakes, smiles, and words of wisdom.
I can't thank you enough -- but to humbly do so in action.
Chat GPT and the new Days
I am always amazed at how our technology has advanced so much. AI is now part of our everyday life -- so to celebrate innovation and technology in its truest form, below is the version created by ChatGPT.
Well, my first seven days as the executive director of athletics and recreation at York University felt like participating in an Olympic sprint! I hit the ground running, literally and figuratively. Meeting the team was like trying to memorize a roster of Olympic athletes. Assessing the programs and facilities felt like exploring a never-ending maze of sports equipment. Engaging with stakeholders was like juggling flaming bowling pins – a bit risky but thrilling. Developing a strategic vision felt like attempting a high dive with a belly flop backup plan. Building relationships was like navigating a minefield of office politics and sports rivalries. And prioritizing staff development was like coaching a team of marathon runners who were simultaneously training for a triathlon. All in all, it was an intense and exhilarating start, but hey, that's just the warm-up. Let the games begin!
My first week in photos
Reflecting my first 7 days on the job. Below are some pictures highlighting my first week. Enjoy!
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| Day 1 in front of the famous YorkU pond! |
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Catherine, our friend and interim ED passing on the keys to me. Thank you for all your leadership and support in the
transitional period—we are truly grateful. |
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Kelly, Catherine, Yeo and I in the golf cart (at the annual scholarship golf tournament).
It was a very sunny day, Yeo, you are amazing! |
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| Yeo and Me, in front of the giant football entrance tent (at the annual scholarship golf tournament). |
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At the Cambridge Club in Toronto, as part of our advancement function, to engage with
external partner - Urban Squash Toronto (a youth empowerment group) |
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