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.

First-Ever Pucks for Purpose Women's Game: Arts-Sci Claims Victory Over Business

With the success of the inaugural Pucks for Purpose game, raising $55,000 for the Canadian Cancer Society and Motionball for Special Olympics, it is no surprise that the organizers have expanded their efforts this year. The first-ever women’s game was held on March 19th at 7 pm, where the Arts-Science team, led by Kylie Barton, faced off against the Business team, captained by Lindsay Gorman. After Business’ blowout victory last year, anticipation was high for both the men's and women’s matchups to see if Arts-Sci could reclaim the trophy.

The game started off slow, with neither team scoring in the first period. However, early in the second, Arts-Sci broke the deadlock, quickly following up with another goal that shifted the momentum in their favour. Despite the setback, Business remained determined and fought hard, getting on the scoreboard in the third period. But Arts-Sci maintained control, closing out the game with a goal in the last few minutes of play, securing a decisive 5- 1 victory.

There was plenty of intermission entertainment to keep the crowd engaged, including a shoot-to-win contest that gave one lucky fan a chance to win a Seadoo, as well as a relay race featuring two teams in inflatable cow costumes. Adding to the excitement, the Stanley Cup was on display for fans to see up close and take pictures with. Free Cool Ranch Doritos and a well-stocked bar added to the night’s success, making it a great way for students to spend their Wednesday evening.

Pucks for Purpose is so successful because it combines all the things StFX students love: hockey, having fun and giving back to the community. Knowing that taking a study break to watch the game contributes to meaningful causes like cancer research and motionball makes the time spent all the more rewarding. Pucks for Purpose is quickly becoming a beloved tradition at StFX, one that is sure to continue for years to come.

Healthy Habits for Exam Time

As November brings cooler weather, the dreaded cold and flu season is bound to follow closely behind. And with exam season just around the corner, students seek to avoid a cough, runny nose, or worse, limiting their performance on finals. But what is it about the colder weather that makes us so susceptible to sickness? We’ve all heard that drying our hair before going outside and drinking orange juice can help prevent us from getting a cold, but do those things actually help? I have compiled some helpful tips and information on how to avoid getting sick ahead of exams and to keep ourselves healthy for the holiday season.

One of the more interesting contributing factors to our susceptibility to illness during the winter months is a lack of vitamin D. With daylight savings time and the sun sitting lower in the sky, our bodies don’t receive nearly as much vitamin D as during the summer months. Several studies conducted by the Department of Emergency Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital have identified a positive relationship between vitamin D deficiency and acute upper respiratory illness. Essentially, low levels of vitamin D make an individual more susceptible to cold and flu symptoms. A paper written by Dr. Cynthia Aranow also highlights the role of vitamin D in the immune system. Immune cells have vitamin D receptors, which means they can regulate the immune response to where it is needed in the body. A lack of vitamin D reduces the function of these receptors, making the body more susceptible to infection. So, by ensuring you’re getting enough vitamin D through supplements or even sunshine tea, you can prevent yourself from getting sick.

Another important factor that helps to support the immune system is getting enough sleep. Dr. Yvonne Chu, a sleep medicine specialist, emphasized the relationship between poor sleep and susceptibility to illness. “Studies have shown,” says Dr. Chu, “that those who chronically get less than seven hours of sleep a night are three times as likely to develop the common cold compared to those who routinely get eight hours or more of sleep.” The events of November and December, including Catalina Wine Night and X-Ring, on top of exams, mean people are staying up late and getting up early to study (or at least, intend to). While social life and academic achievement are important, it is important not to neglect sleep to make up for lost time. Put down your phone and get that extra half hour of sleep at bedtime, or consider leaving Wing Night before the last call - your immune system will thank you for it!

Lastly, while going outside with wet hair or in shorts won’t specifically get you sick, being cold certainly doesn’t help. A study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology showed that the body’s immune response in the nose is weakened in lower temperatures. When the internal temperature of the nose drops by just a few degrees, the release of antiviral particles called EVs decreases, making it easier for viruses to infect the body’s cells. By keeping the body and the face warm, you help maintain a strong immune response. That’s why, instead of wearing a skirt to the bar, think about putting on a pair of sweatpants until you arrive or wear a scarf on your way to class. By staying warm, you help ensure that your body functions optimally, boosting its ability to fight off viruses and stay healthy.

There are several other important steps you can take to prevent illness, like staying hydrated, eating well, and exercising regularly. These tips won’t definitely prevent you from getting a cold, but by properly taking care of yourself, you’re giving your body the best possible chance to defend itself from viruses and bacterial infections. Remember to prioritize your health as the semester comes to an end for your benefit and the benefit of those around you.

This is Your Sign to Sign Up for One of StFX's Free Fitness Classes

St.FX has a range of amazing fitness classes, and it took me until my fourth year to finally take advantage of them. At home in Toronto, I frequently attend fitness, wellness, and spin classes, but I found at school, I could never make the time. Being in my last year at university, I feel as though I'm making more of an effort to do the things I might have missed so far. So, if there is one piece of advice I hope you will take from this, it’s to make the most of your time at St. FX and take advantage of services you’re already paying for. Our annual tuition includes a fee that covers the cost of fitness classes, and with equipment provided, all you have to do is show up.

While school, my extracurriculars, and social life are priorities, I have learned I cannot neglect my health in the process. This year, I’ve made staying active and prioritizing fitness an essential part of my routine. It is from this focus on balance and staying active that I have started attending yoga classes. Despite regularly attending fitness classes back home, yoga has always been something I’ve tried a few times but never fully gotten into. I’ve attended a class here and there, but I haven’t committed to making it a regular part of my routine. With everything happening in my life, I find it challenging to maintain the clear mind that is often emphasized in yoga classes; however, from my experiences this semester, I have noticed big changes already.

Starting in September, my sister, who is a regular attendee, encouraged me to go to a Hatha Yoga class with her. Hatha yoga is always on Tuesday nights at 7:15, making it the perfect opportunity to reset after the weekend and prepare to attack the week. In my first few classes, I found keeping up with the instructor difficult. Preventing my mind from wandering back to my day or the things I had to complete was a challenge. Some of the poses are also quite tricky for a beginner, twisting while simultaneously maintaining balance. However, now that I have attended more classes, I am learning to be patient with myself. Focusing on my breathing has allowed me to stay in the moment more successfully, and my balance has begun to improve. My range of motion has also increased, enabling me to tackle more complex poses with greater confidence. I am calmer and more energized, allowing me to get work done more efficiently. I hope to continue attending yoga classes this year if my schedule allows, and I also plan to explore different classes, having enjoyed an early morning spin class in September.

Though yoga might not be for everyone, I encourage those reading to make use of the resources made available through school. With the range of offered classes, it is easy to find something you can enjoy, improving your overall well-being and helping to maintain essential balance.