The transition from high school to college athletics is significant. We’re highlighting athletes from all varsity teams this season who are on the path to becoming great athletes at Dalhousie University.     

This week we would like to introduce Emma Silvernagle, a first-year athlete on the hockey team from Kelowna, BC! Emma is studying Psychology here at Dal! 

How long have you been playing Hockey? I’ve been playing hockey for 12 years.  

Did you play any other sports growing up? I was a gymnast until hockey took up too much time, so I had to quit. I also played softball until grade 11.  

Who is somebody in sport you admired and why? My mom was a very competitive athlete, so I always looked up to her. She taught me a lot about perseverance and how to be a good teammate.  

What is the most memorable moment in your career so far? Winning the CSSHL Playoff championship two years in a row with my U18 team.  

What made you choose Dalhousie University? The east coast has always been very new and appealing to me. I also played U18 with a current teammate of mine and she always gave me positive reviews and insight on Dal.  

Did any of your family members attend Dalhousie? No, I am the first of my family.  

What are some differences you’ve noticed being a part of a DAL team compared to your previous teams? There’s a huge Dal athletic community here, especially with the first years, that is so fun to be a part of. I’ve made a lot of great friendships with athletes from other sports which is something I’ve never really been able to do. As far as hockey, the pace and physicality in the AUS is a lot higher compared to U18. The workload, schedule, and physical demands are also a lot more intense.  

How would you describe your time with the team so far? My time with the team has been amazing. The girls provide such a positive and supportive culture that feels like family, which is so fun to be a part of.  

What are some of your interests outside of sports? I really enjoy being outside hiking, wake surfing, and travelling. I also love spin classes, concerts, coffee, movies, animals, and seeing my family.  

Any pre-event superstitions/routines? Before games I usually go for a walk, have a coffee, and take a nap. Then when I get to the rink, I always tape my stick.  

What is the biggest risk you’ve taken so far in your athletic career? Moving away from home when I was 15 to billet for hockey.  

What was the coolest experience you’ve had so far this year? Moving across the country and making new friends and routines, along with my teammates becoming my family has been pretty cool.  

Any hidden talents? No. 

Fast Fact Questions (rapid fire, 1-word answers)  

Favourite food? Stir Fry  

Favourite movie? Step Brothers  

Favourite warm-up song? Riff Off from Pitch Perfect 2 

Favourite professional athlete or team? Toronto PWHL (Shoutout Troy Ryan #Dalrepresent)  

If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would you be? Australia  

Who is an athlete that you would compare yourself to? Jonas Brodin