Courting success

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 wasn’t something that came naturally.

“You know how sometimes you see someone play for the first time and they’re so naturally gifted and finessed? I wasn’t one of those!” she laughs. “But it kept my interest because not only is it physically challenging, it’s also very technical and strategic.”

Today, she’s not only a setter for the Dalhousie Tigers, but a star student who’s 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 Dean’s List and received the Dalhousie 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 – twice.  

How does she do it?

“Being so busy doesn’t allow for much down time but it certainly teaches you time management,” says the Truro native. “And when I do have ‘one of those days’ my parents are always there to lift me up and say, ‘Just breathe, Hilary.’”

Although a hectic schedule doesn’t 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.

“Going to practice every day is like going to hang out with your best friends or family,” Ms. Sears says. “There’s a sense of pride when you belong to a team that you don’t get anywhere else.”