First Year Feature - Cross Country

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 you to New Tecumseth, Ontario native Maisyn Battams. Maisyn is on the cross country team, and is majoring in engineering. 

How long have you been running cross country?  

I have been running cross country since I was 13. 

Did you play any other sports growing up?  

Growing up I played a multitude of sports, such as rugby and jiu-jitsu. 

Who is somebody in sport you admired growing up and why? 

My older sister who also runs cross country. 

What is the most memorable moment in your career so far?  

My most memorable moment was honestly when my club coach told me that I seemed to enjoy visiting Dal the most, and that I should go where I was happy. 

What made you choose Dalhousie University? 

I chose Dalhousie for its Engineering program, but I was looking at a lot of schools. I really felt at home with this specific team. 

What are some differences you’ve noticed being a part of a DAL team compared to your previous teams? 

I find that at Dal, the team is less competitive with each other, but we still push each other. In cross country my teammates at Dal prioritize the entire team’s success. 

How would you describe your time with the team so far? 

I think if one of us is struggling, everyone is so supportive, and we all remind each other that we can do hard things. 

What are some of your interests outside of sports? 

I enjoy watching movies. 

Any pre-race superstitions/routines? 

I always have to eat a ton of fruit. 

What was the coolest experience you’ve had so far this year? 

Watching my teammates at USports. 

Fast Fact Questions:

Favourite food?: Blueberries and bagels 

Favourite movie?: Hacksaw Ridge 

Favourite warm-up song or current favourite song?: ‘Till I Collapse - Eminem 

Favourite professional athlete or team?: Jakob Ingebrigtsen 

If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would you be?: The Philippines 

Who is an athlete that you would compare yourself to?: Myself, yesterday