Opportunity through Sport

Written by Mandy Bujold

My name is Mandy Bujold and I am currently a second year student at the University of Waterloo, working towards my undergrad in Liberal Studies.

I was 16 years old when I first walked into a local boxing gym and found my passion for the sport. When I decided to take up boxing as a pastime it came as a surprise to many since I had never been seriously involved in any sport prior to this. I even opted out of taking gym class in high school when it was no longer required.

In 2007, I won my weight division (51kg) at the Junior Canadian Nationals, and since then I have gone on to win 8 consecutive Senior Canadian National titles. Over the past 8 years, being a part of the Canadian Team has given me many opportunities, including travelling the world while doing something I love.

In 2009, female boxing was accepted into the Olympic Games, which created more opportunities for the sport. In the fall of 2010, with the support from Sport Canada, I registered at the University of Waterloo as a part time student. Since then I have been taking classes online, through distance education, and on campus; all while competing at the highest level in my sport. Although it took a bit of time to figure out how to manage my training and competition schedule with my school schedule, I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to do both.  

The professors I have had at the University of Waterloo have all been very understanding and accommodating when it comes to my busy competition schedule, which has been a tremendous help. Throughout my career I have always received amazing support from not only my friends and family but from my community as well. Although, most recently my training has taken me to the Toronto area, Kitchener will always be my hometown and the town that I am proud to represent.

Currently, I am preparing for the 2014 Commonwealth Games that will take place this summer in Glasgow, Scotland. After these games my focus will be on the World Championships and the 2015 Pan Am Games in Toronto, with the final goal being the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. 

If you would like to follow my career results check out my website or on twitter @MandyBujold.