Adaptation has been key in the lives of our Gee-Gees student-athletes. In this time, their opportunity to compete and perform has been set aside in an effort to help support the safety of our greater community. In the face of difficult circumstances, our Gee-Gees have stood up and risen to the challenge, they continue to grow and stay determined away from the field of competition.
Meet Yvan Mongo, a third-year forward and newly named captain of the Gee-Gees men’s hockey team. He is also the creator of Mongo’s Brave Buddies, a program that aims to make a positive impact in the lives of BIPOC minor hockey players.
How are you feeling coming back to uOttawa this Fall and studying virtually?
I'm feeling great! I was really excited to come back to meet my new teammates and get things going with practice and training. Studying virtually isn't as much fun though, to be honest. I feel like it adds a little more stress because it's a different way of learning, but so far I'm managing pretty well.
How have you and the team been keeping in touch while training in smaller numbers?
It hasn't been easy because we barely ever see each other during the week, but we've been doing team activities every weekend to make sure we all get to know each other and develop good team chemistry even considering the circumstances.
What is the mindset of the team so far this year?
The mindset of the team so far is set on staying in ready and staying sharp. Unfortunately, there is no season this year but we are still working hard every day on the ice and in the gym to make sure we’re ready to go for next season.
What is your favourite memory from last season?
My favourite memory from last season is when we won our last playoff game of the OUA East against Concordia. Winning that game meant that we were automatically going to the National championship no matter the outcome of the OUA final, so it was pretty ecstatic. Our team trip to Germany is definitely up there though, it was one of those things you can never forget. Just an unbelievable experience all around.
If you had to give one piece of advice to a future Gee-Gees student-athlete, what would it be?
If I could only give one piece of advice it would be to learn how to manage your time efficiently. With the busy schedule of a student-athlete, I feel like good time management is one of the most important skills to possess in order to perform at school and in your sport.