If you're involved with the student-athlete sector at NAIT, you have probably heard the name Anna Atcheynum. A multi-sport athlete, member of the Ook Leadership Council, and one of only two fifth-year student-athletes this year, Anna is a seasoned member of the community who has seen it all, from coach transitions to department mergers.   

Since she started at NAIT in 2018, Anna has become more than just a standout athlete on the women's volleyball team—she's a cornerstone of leadership, a mentor to her teammates, and a key figure in shaping the team's culture and cohesion.    

Hailing originally from Saskatchewan, Anna's connection to sports began early, thanks to her father, who was an avid hockey player. Growing up in a family where sports were a constant presence, Anna was encouraged to explore a wide range of activities. From soccer to Taekwondo and dance, her parents ensured she had the opportunity to try it all. It was her sister's involvement in volleyball that ultimately led Anna to her primary sport.  

Her height, athleticism, and natural skill set have been clear assets to the team during her time at NAIT. A steady presence on the floor is critical for keeping the team on track, and Anna's ability to contribute to multiple aspects of the game has made her indispensable to the team.  

Her volleyball coach, Erminia Russo Thorpe, is full of praise for the senior athlete. "She's one of the most unselfish players I have ever coached. She really embraces being a varsity athlete and she loves being here, playing volleyball, and you can see that every time she comes into the gym," she said.  

Now one of the most senior members of the NAIT athletics community, Anna has played an important role in supporting her fellow student-athletes, particularly those newer to the program. As a member of the Ook Leadership Council, she has been a key figure in promoting inter-sport camaraderie among the teams and advocating for the student-athlete experience.  

Coach Russo Thorpe describes her as someone with an easy-going personality that allows her to connect well with teammates but who will also step up and set clear expectations. While she's never overly authoritative, she knows when to take charge and guide the team. This balance of approachability and authority makes her an ideal leader, especially for a squad that includes a significant number of newer players. Anna's presence has been essential not just in helping them adjust to the program's culture and expectations but in creating that culture and developing those expectations.   

"She was actually in my job interview," Russo Thorpe laughs, noting that Anna was keen for a coach who understood the importance of fostering a positive environment. Anna's commitment to a culture of mutual respect, accountability, and shared responsibility has helped the team stay grounded. She strives to lead through example, encouraging her teammates to take their academics seriously and reminding them that success on the court is just as much about discipline in the classroom as it is about athletic performance. 

Having been at NAIT for several years, Anna has learned valuable lessons, which she is eager to share with the next generation of athletes. She emphasizes the importance of gratitude and appreciation — something she wishes she had known earlier in her career.  

"One thing I wish someone had told me when I started was not to take anything for granted," Anna reflects. "When you're younger, you think five years is a long time, but it just flies by. I remember thinking that I wasn't going to be at NAIT for five years, but now, as I'm finishing my final season, I'm like, 'I don't want this to end.'"   

At the same time, she also encourages her peers to find their own path. "Being at NAIT has taught me that it's okay to change your mind. I originally started with one plan, changed direction, and now I'm on to something else which is not what I ever thought I would be doing," she says. "If it's not meant for you, it's okay to change your path and where you're going."    

Anna originally started at NAIT in Open Studies before entering the Photographic Technology program. She then switched to Business Administration and finally to her current program, where she will be graduating with a diploma in Geomatics Engineering Tech.   

While school was self-admittedly not always a priority for her, her post-secondary career has given her an appreciation for the importance of academics. As a result, she took it upon herself to encourage her teammates to focus more on their classes as well.   

Her and the team's efforts were a success, and last year was a highlight for her when women's volleyball was ranked third out of all the varsity teams in the academic rankings. "Seeing everyone up there, succeeding together was really rewarding honestly," she says. Her goal to uplift everyone on the team is just one example of Anna's willingness to share what she's learned and support the people around her.  

This year has also seen Anna achieve a long-time dream. One of her goals before graduating was to win an ACAC medal, and in her final year, she achieved that with the golf team. Despite being new to competitive golf, Anna quickly found success. The women's team won a silver medal at the ACAC Championships.  

"Golf was incredible," Anna says, reflecting on her first year with the team. "I was nervous going in because I hadn't played a lot of competitive golf, but the team was so welcoming. It turned out to be a lot more laid-back than I expected, and I really enjoyed it."  

It was a new experience to play a solo sport as well. "Golf is a very mental game—different from volleyball in that respect. You're out there on your own, and it's just you and your thoughts for a 16-kilometer walk," she explains. "Volleyball has a mental aspect, but you have people that are right there with you, going through the same thing at the same time."  

While golf was an exciting challenge, volleyball is now Anna's focus as the season gets underway, and she has high hopes for the team's success in her final year. Her primary goal is to help the team make it to provincials, but beyond that, Anna just wants to see everyone reach their full potential, giving their best effort every time they step on the court. 

Academically, Anna also continues to strive for excellence. Being a student-athlete at NAIT comes with its challenges, but she has learned how to strike a balance between her commitments to sports, academics, and personal well-being.    

"I definitely prioritize my academics first," Anna explains. "Our coaches are really understanding when it comes to school. If we have a midterm coming up, we're allowed to miss practice to focus on studying. But I also make sure I'm taking care of myself and my mental health and keeping a balance as well." To relax, she hangs out with friends and goes on walks to connect with nature and take a step back from it all. 

While Anna is enjoying her last year and appreciating the time she has left, she has put some thought into her post-grad activities. She would like to continue staying active by joining a rec league after graduation, but she also wants to pass on her knowledge and skills.  

"Coaching is something I've found in the past couple of years that I'm really passionate about," she says. She hopes to find an opening in a club or higher-level team once she finishes her diploma.  

As Anna reflects on her journey, she looks back with fondness on the experiences being part of NAIT has given her.   

"I've made the most memories on the away trips with the teams," she says. "On the road, staying in hotels —it's my most favourite part [of the whole experience]. You get to bond with your team and learn all about them."   

Her coach is equally fond of the memories she has of Anna. "I know that I'll look back over the teams I've coached over the years and remember Anna as one of the most likable people, as someone who loves volleyball and loves being part of a team." Russo Thorpe said. "We're gonna miss her, for not just her play on the court but what she brings outside the team as well."   

As Anna continues to play out her final season at NAIT, her legacy has been firmly established. Her love for volleyball, her commitment to her teammates, and her leadership on and off the court make her a role model for those around her and her passion and work ethic will undoubtedly guide her toward success in wherever her path takes her after graduation.