Graduating Seniors Q&A: Featuring six players who were part of the 2021 national championship team
Jefferson Hagen
MacEwan Athletics
EDMONTON – All of them share a special collective memory that will be with them for a lifetime.
The six members of the MacEwan women's soccer 2024 graduating class – Grace Mwasalla, Alyx Henderson, Brenna Paquin, Grace Schimpf, Mariah Arnott and Nicole Noble – captured a U SPORTS championship together.
They will be feted following Saturday's final home game of the year vs. Alberta as part of Senior Day celebrations (12 p.m., Clareview Field, Canada West TV).
"All six of these players were part of our team that won the national championship in 2021, so for that, their legacy will forever be left here with the program," said head coach Dean Cordeiro. "We hope there's more to add to their legacy before their careers are over."
The Griffins enter the weekend tied for first in the Prairie Division with Calgary at 8-1-1 and have aspirations of returning to the U SPORTS nationals, set for Nov. 7-10 at Dalhousie University in Halifax, N.S.
If that's their final weekend, the aforementioned six players will have put a capper on careers that will already never be forgotten at MacEwan.
"It's hard to say goodbye because these are some of the best to ever wear the jersey," said Cordeiro. "So, we are going to enjoy the time we have left with these amazing student-athletes; hoping the best is yet to come."
Enjoy a Q&A with each of the Griffins' graduating seniors below:
GRACE MWASALLA
Dean Cordeiro's coach's quote:
"What a player. Grace Mwasalla really changed things for the program when she decided to be a Griffin. I think it was a match made in heaven with how we were able to connect. The experiences she created, both on and off the pitch, are truly unique. She's our all-time points leader, she's accomplished so many accolades – U SPORTS, Canada West and with MacEwan. It's impossible to put into words what a player like Grace means to a program. The energy she brings, and the fire she has, not just for herself on the pitch, but her teammates, it's just an energy I've never seen before. When you're talking about team dynamics and culture, she has had the biggest impact of anyone I've ever worked with. I've very proud of Grace and so grateful to have had the opportunity to work with her."
Grace Mwasalla rewrote the program record book, including becoming the Griffins' career Canada West goals and points leader, while adding accolades from U SPORTS, Canada West and MacEwan (Jefferson Hagen photo).
Q&A with Grace Mwasalla:
What are you graduating with and when?
"I'm graduating in April. I'm double majoring in Criminology and Psychology."
Do you have a career goal in mind?
"It changes a lot, but right now I'm really interested in becoming a forensic social worker. I just like problem solving and finding solutions to things for myself and other people. I don't really want to go directly into policing, but this still gives me the ability to be involved in the criminal justice system."
Do you have any plans to keep playing soccer?
"Obviously, I want to play for as long as I can, until the wheels fall off. There's a new league coming to Canada – the Northern Super League – so I think that would be the first thing I'd try to pursue after I graduate."
You've had a record-breaking career here with so many program records and accolades from U SPORTS and Canada West. Can you sum up what that's meant to you to accomplish all of that?
"Obviously, coming out of high school and coming into MacEwan, I wanted to make an impact right away. I think I did. I've been lucky enough throughout the years to continue to have an impact on this team, whether it's records or points. It means a lot and I'm very proud of myself. Sometimes I'm way too hard on myself, but to sit here in my senior year and reflect on everything I've accomplished, I'm pretty proud of that."
What are your favourite memories from your time as a Griffin?
"The first one that comes to mind is obviously winning nationals. It was just an unforgettable feeling. I also think something very vivid that I always remember is my first career goal against the Pandas. That was in my first game, first start. And the goal that I did have was incredible. And, also, just the Hawaii trips, especially the one last February when I was injured because it was actually like a vacation. It's always great for team bonding and a nice time with everyone."
Can you describe your first goal?
"I think it was in the 40th minute of the first half. Meagan Lemoine had an infamous long throw in that got deflected and I was at the top of the box, and just volleyed it. It went top bins, and I'll never forget it."
When you look back as your legacy you're leaving to the program here, what do you want to be remembered as?
"I think just being unapologetically myself and allowing others to do the same. At times, when I'm in my silly moods, like making a dumb joke that I don't think is dumb all the time, I'll get a little comment like 'grow up, how old are you?' But that's just who I am and it's not going to change. I'm not really a serious person off the field. I like to have fun and just be a goofball, so I just want to be remembered for the energy and the vibes I've brought to this team over the last four years. At the end of the day, we're here for a specific goal. But the real reason we're here is just to play soccer and have fun. I'm always trying to have a good time and make people laugh and smile."
Is there anything else you'd like to say about your time as a Griffin?
"I've kind of been reflecting throughout the whole week. It's crazy to think I started university during COVID in my basement in Calgary and now I'm here in Edmonton. It goes by really fast, but the friendships and connections I've made throughout the years won't be forgotten. Every single person on the team that I've been involved with has been very important in my life. It's always been a safe environment since I've gotten here. I hope we can continue to create a safe environment for everyone else, as well."
ALYX HENDERSON
Dean Cordeiro's coach's quote:
"Third in all-time scoring and she might have more to say about that before her career is done. Just consistent. You know what you're getting with Alyx. Since Day 1, she's been a major player for us, right from her freshman year. Every year getting stronger and stronger. Her presence has been felt on and off the pitch. We know when the ball is at Alyx Henderson's feet that she can make something happen without a lot of time or space. A lot of people don't know this about Alyx, but she's lightning fast. When she gets going, she's a handful, and we've seen that on full display. She pretty much consistently gets on the scoresheet. You can rely on her every game. She is another student-athlete who prides herself on her performance in the classroom, on the pitch and also in our community. She's been very prominent in our volunteering ventures and everything we do outside of the institution. I can't thank her enough for all of her contributions in those areas."
Alyx Henderson is currently third in program history in career goals with 18, and could catch Meagan Lemoine (20) for second (Jefferson Hagen photo).
Q&A with Alyx Henderson:
What are you graduating with and when?
"I'll graduate in the spring with a Bachelor of Science in Molecular Science and a Minor in Psychology."
Do you have a career goal in mind?
"It's up in the air. Something in health care."
You've been an Academic All Canadian twice so far. What has that meant to help set the standard for the team in the classroom?
"It means a lot. I just feel it's a big accomplishment to have so many people out of such a big team be Academic All Canadians."
Do you have plans to keep playing soccer?
"We'll see. It's not like a big dream of mine to go and keep playing forever, but if something happens, then something happens."
You've moved into third all-time in goals in MacEwan's Canada West era. You're two back of Meagan Lemoine for second. What does that mean to you to be right up there with the best players who've ever played in this program?
"It means a lot. It was actually really shocking. I had no idea I was that high. It's a big honour and I hope I can be second. Meagan was my Big Sis, so we'll see. It would be cool."
Of all those goals, do any stand out to you?
"I think it was second year, we were playing UBC. I'm pretty sure we lost 2-1, but I scored the one goal, and it was a breakaway. I just remember in my head 'don't miss, don't miss.' That was to tie the game, I think. That's a big one. I feel like my goal in Manitoba this year, I've never really scored a goal like that – just from outside the 18 and it was a bit of a banger.
What are some of your favourite memories during your time with the Griffins?
"Just the girls. The girls are so great. All of our team events, the friends I've made along the way. It's more about the people than playing. But obviously winning nationals first year was perfect."
What will your legacy with the team or what will you be remembered for?
"My nickname is Big Dog, so maybe just being a big presence on the field."
If there anything else you'd like to say about your time at MacEwan?
"I'm just really thankful for it – sad that it's almost over. It seems like it went by really fast. I'm really happy. I wouldn't have chosen anywhere else to go. I wouldn't have met the people along the way that I did, so I'm just really grateful."
BRENNA PAQUIN
Dean Cordeiro's coach's quote:
"I think Brenna was our first Saskatchewan player and she really has started a bit of a pipeline there. Brenna's been amazing from Day 1. She contributed her freshman year and has only gotten into a more prominent role as her career's gone on. It's just so cool to see her mentality of team first and togetherness. We see different people stepping up on different days and that's kind of been Brenna. She's a prolific player who can make plays, set up her teammates and score those timely goals. She's very responsible defensively and is all about the team."
Brenna Paquin holds the program record for the most assists in a Canada West match (3) and is tied for the most points (4) - all during a 2022 game in Winnipeg (Jefferson Hagen photo).
Q&A with Brenna Paquin
What are you graduating with and when?
"I'll be graduating in April with a double major in Psychology and Criminology."
Do you have a career goal in mind?
"I'm actually going back to school and hopefully being a Psych nurse."
Do you have any plans to keep playing soccer?
"I don't know yet. I think I'm still going to play League 1 this summer and I'll see where that takes me."
What are some of your favourite memories with the Griffins?
"Winning nationals, for sure. That was a big part of my career here. But also being here as a team – all the friendships we've made and how close we are. That's definitely the biggest thing."
You hold program records for the most assists in a Canada West game with three and are tied for the most points with four. What do you remember about that game?
"It was in Winnipeg against the Wesmen. All of my assists went to Grace Mwasalla. It was nice to have those assists with her because she also tied the program record for most points in a game, scored four goals and got the fastest hat trick. She broke a few records that game. It was kind of nice helping her break those records because she's one of my best friends."
You almost kick-started a wave of players coming from Saskatchewan. What's that been like to have others follow you to MacEwan?
"It's been nice. I'm really close with Jaycee (Krushelniski) and Sophie (Lavallee). I grew up playing with them. They'd always ask questions about coming to play here. It's nice having more Sask girls on the team, so you're not just the only one."
What do you see as your legacy with the team? How will you be remembered?
"Hopefully, I'll be remembered as a good teammate and someone who's always there for the team and always uplifting each other. And someone who just works hard and always gives 110 per cent, no matter what we're doing."
Is there anything else you'd like to say about your time with the Griffins?
"Even though I only played four years here, I'd say the friendships I've made will stick. I've made some of my best friends here. We're just so close with each other. I hope they last forever."
GRACE SCHIMPF
Dean Cordeiro's coach's quote:
"She really left her mark. She took a gap year before she decided to come to MacEwan. It's nice when you have a little bit of an older player; starting off with a little bit more maturity. But she fit in so well from the onset. She was part of that national championship team and was actually going to be our fifth penalty kick taker if it had gone to five shooters. Ever since then, her role just continually increased. She's on the leadership team and every year has cemented her position on the team as one of the most dynamic central midfielders. She really is a maestro in there. Being a left-footed player is unique. Her ability to make plays at any given time has really been something this team has relied on. This year, we made a little bit of a positional switch. She's played a little centre mid, but she's predominantly been our left back. It's a new role late in her career, but nothing's fazed her. It's always about what's best for the team, how can I help. She's turned into a dynamic fullback for us this season. I'm very happy for her and proud to see what she's been able to achieve over her career here."
Grace Schimpf recently became just the second player in the Griffins' Canada West history to record 100 career corner kicks (Jefferson Hagen photo).
Q&A with Grace Schimpf:
What are you graduating with and when?
"Bachelor of Design, specifically Graphic Design, and that will be in April."
Do you have a career goal in mind?
"Something in the Design field, most likely in publication or branding design."
Do you have any plans to keep playing soccer?
"Not going to the next level, but hopefully still playing casually."
You've had some major academic awards over your time here, winning the Griffins' Top Academic award for the Communications and Fine Arts faculty three years in a row, along with three U SPORTS Academic All Canadian honours so far. What does it mean to have excelled in the classroom?
"It's just nice to see all that hard work be (recognized). It's not expected, but it makes you feel better about your degree and everything you're putting forward, just knowing it's paying off. I wasn't the smartest kid in high school, but I've worked really hard on my degree to do the best that I could."
In terms of on-field play, you reached 100 career corner kicks last weekend, becoming just the second Griffins player to accomplish that. What does that mean to do you?
"It kind of makes me giggle. It's such a random stat, but it is really cool that somebody was keeping track of that. It's a big part of my game and it's cool to see it on paper that that's how many times I've gone to do that."
What are some of your favourite memories from your time as a Griffin?
"Our Hawaii trips really stand out. Just a lot of team bonding and fun. And just playing different teams while we're there, as well."
Do you have a goal that stands out to you?
"I do remember very vividly my rookie year, we were in Final Four and Grace Mwasalla scored against Sask later in the game – in the 70th or 80th minute – and that's when we realized we could win this game and we're going to go to nationals. She ran to the bench, and I replay that goal so often just because of how happy everybody was. It was a great moment."
What do you think your legacy is with the program? How will you be remembered?
"I hope I'm just remembered as someone who was a dedicated and hard-working teammate who gave my best on and off the field."
Is there anything else you'd like to say about your time as a Griffin?
"Just that it went by so incredibly fast. Everybody says that – my vets when I was a rookie said that. It's so much fun. The days are long, but it goes so fast."
MARIAH ARNOTT
Dean Cordeiro's coach's quote:
"She is our game-changer. Don't get me wrong, she's earned her fair share of starts. We've just found over her career here that she's made of a mark being a game-changer that comes into the game and can change momentum. She's a sparkplug. She gives everything she has, every opportunity she gets. Mariah is one of our first Manitoba players. When she committed, she had some big goals – 'hey coach, I want to win a championship.' In her rookie season, we accomplished that. That was one of the first things when we won and one of my fondest memories. She ran on and we intercepted each other 'coach, we talked about this, this was the goal.' I'm like 'absolutely, hopefully there will be more of those memories to come.' Mariah's always been that player you can rely on. She'll run through a wall for her team, and we've been so blessed to have her."
Mariah Arnott has been a true game-changer for the Griffins in midfield, bringing energy to the pitch that has helped the team close out many games (Jefferson Hagen photo).
Q&A with Mariah Arnott
What are you graduating with and when?
"Major in Criminology and Minor in Psychology. I'll be graduating in the spring/summer of 2025."
Do you have a career goal in mind?
"There are a lot of RCMP jobs I've been looking into. But I'd like to travel after I'm finished playing soccer. I'd like to play soccer for as long as possible and then travel a bit, and then figure out fully what I want to do for a job. But definitely in RCMP, policing area."
That's my next question – do you have any plans to continue playing soccer anywhere?
"I would like to play pro wherever there's an opportunity to. Obviously, the Super League is coming in 2025. Even if it is an option, I'd like to go somewhere in Europe because I think that would be really cool. But wherever there are options, really. If I could travel while playing soccer, that would be really cool."
You moved from Winnipeg to Edmonton to play for the Griffins. What's that been like to play away from home?
"It's been pretty good. My family comes as much as they can. My dad has been at every home and away game except one since I've been here. Luckily his job allows for that, so I'm very grateful for that. It's been nice having family here every weekend. It's also been nice that we can play in Winnipeg for one weekend every year."
What are your favourite memories of your time as a Griffin?
"My favourite memory was winning nationals my first year. I think it was just so surreal. It was so new to me and the way we got close so quickly was insane. We were getting distracted because we lost track how many penalties had taken place for the final. So, it was, 'is this the one?' Then finally the whistle blew and we all just flooded the field, we were wrapped in the banner, we were doing flips. It was great."
What is your legacy with the team or what will you be remembered for?
"I would like to be remembered as always being there for everyone whether it's girls who are also away from home who aren't used to it yet and need support or girls that do live here and are trying to find their balance, how they make time for their family who lives here. I just hope people remember me as always being able to support everyone in every aspect of not just soccer, but their lives."
Anything else you'd like to say about your time as a Griffin?
"I am just very grateful that this opportunity came to me when I was (in high school). I didn't know much about MacEwan because I hadn't heard of them before. But when Dean approached me, it was 'wow, let me look into this.' I'm so grateful that I looked into it, and he reached out. Through the ups and downs, it's the best decision I ever made. Staying here, struggling at the beginning away from home, I'm definitely grateful I stuck through it to the end.
NICOLE NOBLE
Dean Cordeiro's coach's quote:
"Nikki has brought so much energy and team-first mentality. She's had to endure some injuries throughout her career here, but it didn't hold her back. Once she was cleared and ready to go, she was also saying 'hey, I'm ready to go in whatever role you need.' Those are important pieces to the puzzle when you're trying to put a team together. Nikki's done everything we could have asked of her. The accomplishments she's achieved in the classroom and in the community – always the first to step up and volunteer. When we look at our three pillars – athletic, academic and giving back to our amazing communities – Nikki Noble checks all those boxes. She's an outstanding student and a great teammate. It's been amazing to work with her."
Nicole Noble has been the epitome of what it means to be a Griffins' student-athlete with accomplishments in athletics, academics and community service (Jefferson Hagen photo).
Q&A with Nicole Noble:
What will you be graduating with and when?
"Major in Biological Sciences in the Molecular stream and a minor in Psychology. And I'm going to be graduating in April."
Do you have a career goal in mind?
"I'm planning on going into Medicine, either advancing into Medical School down the road or getting my Masters' as a Physician's Assistant first and then deciding if I want to go to Medical School or not."
Do have future plans to keep playing soccer?
"I definitely want to keep playing soccer after I graduate as I love the sport, but I'm just not sure where yet."
You've been a U SPORTS Academic All Canadian every year at MacEwan. What kind of pride have you taken in your academic journey?
"I'm very proud of myself to be able to maintain both my soccer and my academics. I take my academics very seriously. I take pride in achieving both. It was definitely difficult to manage and handle both at the same time, but I am very proud I was able to get Academic All Canadian my entire career here."
You also went through an injury last season. Grace Mwasalla singled you out as someone she could be real with as you went through injury rehabilitation together. What was that process like for you?
"It was definitely tough because I wasn't really expecting it. I've had hip issues for a while and then I went and got an opinion back in Calgary and they said I should get imaging done. It turned out that I did have a tear in my labrum in my hip. It went from just going to physio to being out the entire winter season. I think it was very difficult to hear that news so suddenly. I definitely couldn't have done it without Grace. Obviously, her injury was more extensive than mine, but I think just being there for each other and seeing each other progress and improve is something I'll honestly never forget. To see Grace on the pitch this season is so special after how hard she's worked."
What are some of your favourite memories with the Griffins?
"Honestly, just all the friendships I've made. Going to Hawaii and being able to bond with my team and the travelling I was able to do. Making my forever friends here was a top memory that I'm so grateful to take with me."
As you leave the program, what would you like to be remembered for? What's your legacy with this team?
"I think I want to be remembered as a good teammate and being everyone's biggest fan. I've always wanted this team to succeed, I've always wanted my friends to succeed. Just being a good teammate to everyone and making everyone welcome and comfortable here."
Is there anything else you'd like to say about your time as a Griffin?
"I'm just so grateful for it. It helped me grow as a person, it helped me to be able to achieve my undergraduate as a student athlete. I'll never forget the friends I've made, the memories I've made here. And I'll forever be grateful to be a Griffin."
