From Sydney to Saint John
Author: S. Guimond
Posted on Apr 24, 2019
Category: Volleyball , ACAA , Varsity Sports
Jali Blair-Summons is travelling 16, 604 kilometers to play volleyball at UNB Saint John. Hailing from Sydney, Australia, Jali has officially signed with the Seawolves women’s volleyball program for the 2019-20 Varsity season.
Sport has always played a major role in Jali’s life. She played a variety of sports over the years but volleyball has become her niche.
“I love being part of a sport where the culture is about team work, commitment and hunger to win. I have made lifelong friend through volleyball and have loved coaching, playing and pushing myself to reach my goals.”
During her final year of high school she captained her teams and won awards in athletics and swimming. Jali received the Pierre de Coubertain Award for representing the College (St. Scholaticas Collage, Glebe) at the highest standard in sport both on and off the field. After her first year as a trainee in Early Education and Care she was awarded an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander of the year finalist award. In addition she has received awards for being most consistent in futsal, soccer, water polo and volleyball.
Jali chose UNB Saint John through a recommendation from Monica Jones, a UNB alumni. She looks forward to the friendly community and variety of courses offered. She will be taking the Bachelor of Arts program once she arrives in the fall. Jali’s excitement to attend UNB Saint John was reconfirmed by Head Coach, Lauren Hale-Miller through her welcoming attitude and supportive communication.
“I’m very excited to meet the Seawolves team, work with Coach Hale-Miller, learn the style of play and strengthen my abilities.”
Jali looks forward to experiencing a new culture, continuing her education and becoming a part of a new community. She likes to make the best of every opportunity and learns as much as possible from coaches and teammates to become a better athlete. Jali’s biggest role model is her grandfather, his dedication and achievements in sport and commitment to his family are something she aspires to achieve. Her grandfather represented Australia in Rugby union and league and she will forever be thankful he passed on his love and passion of sport to his family.
Coach Hale-Miller mentions that Jali came highly recommended from a colleague. Jali’s volleyball experience of playing in the Australian Volleyball League for several years will add to the team quite well.
“Jali is a very well organized and committed individual. This type of attitude is key to success as an athlete in our program. She is a quick hitter and is able to read a situation extremely well. Her speed will be successful in our system.”
Coach Hale-Miller is very excited to have Jali join the Seawolves squad, she looks forward to refining her current skill set as a volleyball player.
Welcome to the Seawolves Family Jali!
