Shae Fournier - "Woman to Watch"

Shae Fournier, of the Bushido Aquatic Club, is the most recent recipient of Sport Manitoba's “Women to Watch” Grant for her outstanding achievements in the sport of Water Polo.

In 2007, Shae was one of the athletes selected to the Canadian Select Team. This elite squad is composed of the best players in Canada that come together in Montreal three times per year to play.

Shae most recently was named to the Canadian Women's Junior National Team. She and her team won a Gold medal in July 2008 at the Pan American Games in Brazil . This outstanding achievement qualified the Canadian Junior Team to compete at the Junior Worlds in 2009.

Shae's coach, Head Coach of Bushido - Dave Hill, attributes her achievements to her tenacity and the fact that she never backs down from a physical or mental challenge.

Not only is Shae a great athlete, but she is also an academic. She is in the Advanced Program at school and has been on the honour roll the past four years. She was also named “Athlete of the Year” at her school. In addition to being a star player and student, she is also a role model for all players in Manitoba .

So what's next for Shae? She plans to train hard again this year and make the Junior Worlds Team in 2009. Long term, her goals include travelling with the Senior National Team and going to the Olympics.

We have no doubt that Shae's talent, determination and focus will make these goals a reality. Keep your ears and eyes open at the pool as Shae truly is a “Woman to Watch”!

Congratulations Shae!