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 Blake Marchand, a first-year jumper on the men's track & field team! Hailing from Port Hawkesbury in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Blake is studying engineering.
How long have you been competing in track and field?
This is my second winter season competing.
Did you play any other sports growing up?
I played pretty much every sport available; hockey, soccer, baseball, softball and basketball. Basketball was my passion growing up.
Who is somebody in sport you admired growing up and why?
Kobe Bryant. His mentality was killer, he outworked everyone around him and never let the reason that someone beat him be because they were working harder or wanted it more.
What is the most memorable moment in your career so far?
The most memorable moments in in my career so far have been competing at the Legion National meet for team Nova Scotia in 2022, and receiving a gold medal at the Canadian Indoor Championship meet in 2023
What made you choose Dalhousie university?
I felt like it was the best place for me to challenge myself and grow athletically and academically.
What are some differences you’ve noticed being a part of a DAL team compared to your previous teams?
Being a part of the DAL track team has been a great experience. Everyone here is a talented athlete and its great motivation to push myself to improve in all aspects.
How would you describe your time with the team so far?
Being on the team has been like being part of a family, it’s always a great atmosphere with everyone teaching, learning and growing.
What are some of your interests outside of sports?
Hanging out with friends and watching whatever games are on.
Any pre-event superstitions/routines?
When I was at my first high-jump event I was so hungry that I ate a whole bundle of bananas and I ended up winning, so now I eat a banana before almost every meet. Not every time but almost.
What is the biggest risk you’ve taken so far in your athletic career?
The biggest risk I’ve taken in my athletic career was probably deciding to fully commit to track last year and give up all my other competitive sports.
What was the coolest experience you’ve had so far this year?
Finally jumping 2m, which is higher than my height at 6”4’.
Any hidden talents?
I can solve a Rubik's cube
Fast Fact Questions (rapid fire, 1-word answers)
Favourite food? Sushi
Favourite movie? Gladiator
Favourite warm-up song? War Pigs, Black Sabbath
Favourite professional athlete or team? Kobe Bryant
If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would you be? Right here.
Who is an athlete that you would compare yourself to? I don’t compare myself with other athletes, I like to picture where I’m at in 10 years' time and do what I can to make that guy the best he can be.