"Choose what feels right, what checks the most boxes, and where you can see yourself thrive."
That's the advice Ketsia Kapanga would give anyone deciding which college to attend and it's exactly what guided her journey. She just completed her first year at George Brown College, studying Dental Hygiene while playing for the women's basketball team.
Transitioning from high school to college is tough for many, but adding the demands of varsity athletics brings even more challenges. Kapanga took it all in stride and learned a lot both on and off the court.
"I would describe my first year as a lesson. It has taught me so much, from new plays, to new positions, to learning how to play at a higher level. I never knew how much I would assimilate, especially being around such talented teammates and staff," she explained. "Also, learning how to time manage and balance the increase in workload, and branching out to meet a whole new group of people you aren't familiar with."
On the court, the first-year forward made a big impact off the bench. She averaged 5.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, and just under 1 steal per game, while leading the team with a 40.8% field goal percentage. Kapanga played in every game and hit double digits in scoring four times. Thanks to her great season, she was nominated for the Huskies 2024-25 Female Rookie of the Year.
Her drive in the classroom didn't go unnoticed. Kapanga earned a spot on the Dean's List and received the OCAA All-Academic Award, recognizing her ability to balance elite academics with varsity sport.
"The program actually recommended to me by my dentist. Having always had an amazing experience at the dental office, I knew that this was the career path for me," she explained. "I enjoy learning new dental instruments and how to use them on clients. I also love how science based the program is, it's always been my favourite subject to learn."
Similar to basketball, Kapanga's determination and drive were on full display in the classroom, and it didn't go unnoticed. She earned the OCAA All-Academic Award for being on the college's Dean list. An impressive feat that took a lot of hard work.
"It's truly been a relief for me. Knowing how challenging the program is, I was afraid that being part of the Women's Basketball team would cause me to fall behind academically, so seeing myself receive such an award felt rewarding for all my hard work, as well as happy knowing that I made my mother proud," she said.
Her biggest supporter has always been her mom.
"She always coming to all my home games, watching every livestream when she can't come. She has been my cheerleader since birth, always proud of my achievements whether academic or athletic." she stated.
Even before joining the team, Kapanga attended Huskies games. After just one season, she fully understands what it means to be part of the One Pack.
"Being a Husky means to be part of a community larger than yourself, a connection unlike no other."
