Alyssa Lucier Commits To University of Manitoba

Wallaceburg basketball player Alyssa Lucier will be taking her game outside the province next season, as she has committed to play CIS basketball for the University of Manitoba.

“I’ve never really thought of pursuing my basketball career outside of Ontario, but once I was presented with the offer to come and visit I was thrilled. After going to visit, I fell in love with the campus, the facilities, the team and as well as the coaches,” said Lucier of choosing the University of Manitoba Bisons. “The environment was very welcoming yet competitive – and that excited me a lot.”

Lucier, a Wallaceburg District Secondary School student, who played for the WDSS Tartans, has suited up alongside some of the areas best players this season competing in the JUEL basketball leage with the London Lakers.

Lucier also credited her desire to compete and advance to her high school and OBA coach Janine Day, who without, she says the opportunity to reach this level would not be possible.

“It feels surreal to be able to get the chance to play University basketball,” continued Lucier, who had an official signing Thursday in Wallaceburg.

“From the time I was in about grade 6 I was determined that I wanted to play post-secondary basketball. Once I was in high school, I told Janine Day about my dreams of pursuing my basketball career and she did not let me forget that. At times when I felt like I wanted to quit, she pushed me through it because she knew what I really wanted.”

Lucier, who will study criminology at the University Manitoba, says she’s ready for a new challenge in a new Province, and is excited to Winnipeg to begin her studies and competing with the Bisons.

“I am looking forward to meeting new people and seeing the differences between Ontario and Manitoba,” says Lucier.

“Not that I won’t miss home, but I am extremely excited to live on my own and fend for myself. At first there were a few concerns in regards to feeling alone and not being able to seek out help when needed, but the girls on the basketball team, as well as the coaching staff immediately lifted any concerns I had during my visit.”