Austen Emanuel

My journey to college basketball has been one of persistence and faith. One of the toughest challenges I’ve faced was the uncertainty of not knowing if I’d get the chance to play at the college level. This doubt was stressful and brought on a lot of anxiety, but my faith in Christ kept me grounded and focused on my goals. After several setbacks, including missed opportunities at the ACAC level and multiple attempts to connect with coaches, I nearly lost hope. But in God’s perfect timing, St. Mary’s College opened a door for me, and now I’m proud to play for what I believe is the best college basketball team in Canada.

My drive on the court is fueled by the sacrifices my parents have made for my sister and me. As immigrants from India, they left behind family and friends and worked tirelessly to give us better opportunities. Their work ethic and commitment inspire me every day, and I want to honor their sacrifices by pushing myself to be the best player I can be and making a positive impact at St. Mary’s.

One of my biggest role models is Cristiano Ronaldo. His story—rising from humble beginnings to achieve greatness—is a reminder that with relentless hard work, anything is possible. Ronaldo’s journey motivates me to stay focused, work hard, and give my best to every game and practice.

For younger athletes, my advice is to take it one day at a time. It’s easy to get caught up in comparisons and wonder about your future in the sport. Instead, focus on small, daily improvements—aim to get 1 percent better each day. Celebrate the little wins, because over time, they build up to big achievements. By focusing on the present and setting daily goals, you’ll find fulfillment and success, both on and off the court.