Interview with Graduating Athletic Therapist Kylie Barton
/The end of the school year is a time for reflection, a chance for students to look back upon the moments that defined their university experience. For fourth-year students, this is particularly true as they consider how their time at StFX has shaped them and what lies ahead. With many athletic seasons coming to a close around this time, players, coaches and support staff have a similar opportunity to reflect on the highs and lows of the year.
Kylie Barton, a fourth-year Honours Human Kinetics student, has been an athletic therapist for the women’s and men’s hockey teams over the past two years. As she prepares to graduate, she has shared her experiences working with the X-Men this year, the challenges of the role, and what she will take with her from her time on the bench.
“It was a season full of ups and downs,” she explained. “We had a rocky start, especially facing teams like UNB and Moncton.” With ten new players on the roster, the team faced an adjustment period, but as the season progressed, everything started to fall into place. “Once we found our rhythm, we had a great run.” Injuries were another challenge, but the team’s commitment to recovery made a significant difference. “The guys were really committed to their rehab and honest about what they were feeling,” Barton shared. “Even if someone had a tough injury, they still showed up to the rink. It’s a close-knit team, and they really lift each other up.”
The strong team dynamic extended to Barton herself. As one of the only women travelling with the team, she acknowledged the potential difficulties of finding her place but expressed appreciation for the support she received. “It can be tough being the only girl on a weekend road trip, but the guys always made sure I felt comfortable and looked out for me.” Some of her favourite memories with the team have been during long bus rides and high-pressure playoff games. “After games in PEI, we always played Mafia on the bus, that’s something I’ll never forget.” Last year’s marathon playoff game was another standout moment. “Four overtimes. I was running around trying to help everyone. The coach even had me go on the ice to stall for time. And we won! It was unreal.”
With graduation approaching, she shared how the reality of leaving has begun to set in. “I’m sad. Like, really sad,” she admitted. “This has been such a great team to work with, and I didn’t want it to end.” Her role as an athletic therapist became a defining part of her university experience. “It’s been huge. You do have to sacrifice a bit of your social life, but it’s worth it.”
When asked to give advice to the next person stepping into her role, she said to make the most of it. “Enjoy it. It goes by so fast. One day you’re working your last game, and suddenly you’re wondering what’s next.” Even on the long days at the rink, she encourages them to soak it all in. “There’s nothing else like it.” As she moves on to her next chapter in Hamilton to study osteopathy, she will bring with her the relationships, lessons, and memories that made her time at StFX and with the X-Men so special.
