Mya McDonald Embraces New Athletic Challenge in College Sports

Mya McDonald, a promising young athlete from Strathclair, is set to join the Dakota College at Bottineau Lumberjacks women’s hockey and softball teams in the fall of 2024. At just 17 years old, McDonald has shown remarkable resilience and determination throughout her high school athletic career, which included participation in a variety of sports such as curling, basketball, and cross country.

“I’m excited for the challenge,” McDonald stated. “I think it will still be fun. I’ve managed all these sports in high school; how hard could it be in another one?” As she prepares to pursue an associate of Arts degree, McDonald is confident in her ability to balance academics and athletics.

Growing up on a farm near Strathclair, McDonald credits her family, especially her parents, for their unwavering support. “They’ve really been my support system all along,” she said. “My mom has always been a coach for me too and always helped me to be a better player and a better teammate.”

Exceptional Athletic Journey

McDonald has been engaged in sports from a young age, starting to skate at around three years old. She began playing hockey a year later and has since developed into a skilled blue-liner. Her versatility on the ice has allowed her to play both center and defense, which she believes enhances her overall game. “I like to be offensive but also defensive,” McDonald explained. “I only make an offensive rush if it’s a smart move.”

Currently, she is playing in the Rural Manitoba Female Hockey League with the U18 A Hamiota Huskies, where the team is enjoying a successful season. With a record of 13 wins and only 2 losses, the Huskies boast a league-high of 63 goals scored and just 22 goals against. In her 15 games this season, McDonald has contributed significantly, scoring six goals and providing 11 assists, including two game-winning goals.

Being named team captain has added another layer of responsibility. “It means a lot to me that the girls voted for me to be captain,” she said, emphasizing her desire to lead by example and support her teammates.

Looking Ahead to College Sports

McDonald first considered playing at the university level during her time in U15 hockey when she attended a job fair in Brandon. “There was a job thing in Brandon, and Bottineau was there and said there’s a hockey team and softball team. I was like ‘Oh, I can go play somewhere,’” she recalled. This revelation opened her eyes to new opportunities.

She visited the Dakota College at Bottineau campus in September alongside her teammates, Brooke Facey and Alyshia McKinnon, who also committed to the school. McDonald appreciated the welcoming atmosphere: “I liked how friendly everybody was. It felt like a nice little community.”

Neil Franklin, the head scout for Dakota College at Bottineau, expressed enthusiasm about McDonald joining the program. He highlighted her mobility and ability to read the game, stating, “She sees the ice very well and leads by example.”

As McDonald looks forward to this new chapter in her life, she is focused on completing her high school education. “I can’t wait to see where it takes me and where my life is going to go with it,” she said. With her determination and support system, McDonald is poised to make a significant impact in her college athletic career.