As a fourth-year member of the University of Regina men's basketball team and a student in the Faculty of Education, I have been fortunate enough to experience many of the wonders that are involved with participating in Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS). The experience has allowed me to see first hand the many positive things that sport can bring to a university campus and local community.

After playing basketball competitively in high school, I was recruited to play for the U of R Cougars. This meant the opportunity to continue playing the sport that I love at a high level while working toward a degree. Growing up I always viewed the U of R athletes as role models and now I have the opportunity to fill that same role for others.

For those who are not familiar with the CIS, it is the athletic association under which all Canadian university athletic teams participate. The CIS is split into four regions: Canada West, Ontario, Quebec, and the Atlantic. This allows student-athletes from across the country to compete in the best athletic facilities our nation has to offer while studying at the finest academic institutions.

Participation in the CIS is a privilege for student-athletes. They embody the values of the university and realize their role as ambassadors of the school when competing across the country and interacting in the community. Participation also means being respectful and hard working, as well as understanding the importance of balancing education and sport.

Most importantly the CIS is about community. In the community athletes are positive role models to the youth who look up to them. Athletes and coaches often visit local schools to promote physical activity and healthy living. Personally, I find the school visits are very enjoyable. Recently I was able to spend some time with a local elementary school basketball player who has cerebral palsy. After giving him some advice on improving his jump shot, we talked about teamwork and its importance not only in sport but in life. Interactions such as this play a powerful role in the CIS experience.

Participation in the CIS is also about competing in front of family, friends, fellow students, staff, and members of the local community. The sport allows for people to get together and support athletes who are playing for the love of the game and not for monetary gains. Games and competitions become community events where all fans come together in support of their local team, school, and city.

The CIS experience is one that I enjoy immensely. It has allowed me to travel to many different parts of our country and to connect with some extraordinary people. Sport is just one aspect of the university experience but a very enjoyable and exciting aspect for many.