Athlete Profile

Jessalyn Walkey

Women's Senior Team

Nickname: Jess
Position: Forward
Height: 173 cm
Age: 21
Birthplace: Mississauga, ON
Hometown: Gooderham, ON
Residence: Vancouver, BC

Senior Caps: 33
Former Teams: University of Guelph, Gryphons Field Hockey
Coaches: Louis Mendonca, Michelle Turley
First Int'l Appearance: 2009 in Dublin vs. Ireland

Biography
Competitions
Images & Video
Sponsors

Field Hockey Background

I started playing field hockey in Grade 9 at my high school, St. John's Kilmarnock (SJK), Ontario.

Jessalyn started playing ice hockey at age 6, but in grade 9, at St. John’s Kilmarnock, she was introduced to the game of field hockey. In grade 10 she narrowed her focus to field hockey and by grade 11 she lead her high school team to their first OFSSA win, followed by another win in her grade 12 year.

Proudest Moment

My proudest moment playing field hockey was winning OFSAA in my grade 11 year. I was a young captain and lead our team to a first ever OFSAA gold medal in SJK's history.

Favourite Moment with Team Canada

Signing the National Team's Canadian flag and singing our National Anthem in Dublin, Ireland. Also, in Chile 2010 when I was injured, before I left the team sent me off with a song they had composed. We all cried, but it was a wonderful celebration of team unity and friendships, along with faith for a healthy return. They were my inspiration during my recovery!

Career Highlights

- 2008 OUA Rookie of the Year
- 2008 CIS Rookie of the Year
- 2008 OUA First-team All Star
- 2008 CIS Second-team All Star
- 2008 CIS tournament MVP
- 2008 University of Guelph Female Rookie of the Year

My Life

I am extremely passionate about nature and wildlife. In Ontario, my family and I live up in cottage country on a secluded piece of land, along a beautiful river. "The River", as we call it, is my oasis. After hockey, I plan to pursue wildlife veterinary medicine or graduate studies in wildlife research & conservation. Some of my interests include photography, reading, canoe trips, kayaking, hiking, cycling, motorcycle trips with my family and flying (currently working on my PPL).

Education

University: University of British Columbia

Degree/ Major: Animal Science

Role Model

My parents are my role models. They are two of the most positive people you'll ever meet. I admire their outlooks on life, their motivation and work ethics, and their generosity in giving back to those around them. They are incredibly strong individuals and together they are a fantastic unit.

Favourite Quote

"Live. Laugh. Love."

Three Interesting Facts

1. I have my motorcycle licence and I am working on my pilot's licence.
2. I played ice hockey for 8 years before switching to field hockey.
3. I love to swim and could spend hours in the water. Everyone referred to me as a 'fish' growing up.

Advice for aspiring athletes...

Dream big, because anything is possible. Get busy with actions to accomplish your goals. Be true to your Canadian roots: get involved in provincial programs and Canadian variety athletics.