Getting to Know...Maria Dunphy
X-Women volleyball libero Maria Dunphy is the latest athlete featured in our Getting to Know your X-Women and X-Men series throughout the summer. Maria recently completed her third year with the X-Women and is a Human Kinetics student from Antigonish, N.S.
What brought you to StFX?
Growing up in Antigonish, I always knew I wanted to be a part of the StFX family. My grandparents, parents and brother all graduated from X and only had good things to say about it. I have the best of both worlds - being close to home, but also being a part of the X community that makes me feel like I am in an entirely new place. StFX also has a great athletics program and is known for its academics, which are two things that were very important to me when choosing where I would attend.
What has been your best moment in a StFX uniform so far?
I would definitely have to say placing first in the regular season in my freshman year would have to be my favourite moment. We started the season off slow but coming back from the Christmas break we pushed and won almost all of our games, clinching the title in our last season game against our rival Saint Mary’s Huskies. It was such a satisfying moment to show that all of our hard work throughout the season paid off.
One thing I cannot live without is…?
My blankie and teddy bear. They have come with me on every road trip and vacation I’ve ever been on!
If I could have super-hero powers I would…?
Have the power to fly.
My biggest pet peeve is…?
People popping Balloons! I hate the loud noise… which is also why I am terrified of thunder and lightning.
My dream vacation destination is…?
I’ve always wanted to travel to New Zealand… It is at the top of my list.
Tell us one thing that fans may not know about you?
I love being outdoors. Whether it’s being at my cottage on the lake in the summer or at a cabin in the woods in the middle of winter, I love being away from the business of everyday life and just relaxing with my family, friends, and my dog Charlie.
FAVORITES:
1. Past-time/hobby: Reading
2. Food: Turkey Dinner!
3. Website: Facebook
4. TV show: Big Bang Theory
5. Movie: Lord of the Rings or Armageddon
6. Actor/Actress: Tom Hanks/Rachel McAdams
7. Singer/Band: Kid Cudi/Coldplay
8. Sport (other than your own): Hockey or Tennis
9. Pro sports team: Boston Red Sox
10. Pro sports athlete: Rodger Federer