Maria Hapca

Name: Maria Hapca

How long have you been a FFG tutor? Since September 2022

What do you do day to day?

I am a 3rd-year medical student at Glasgow University. I also work part-time as a lifeguard.

What sport(s) do you participate in?

Netball, Swimming, Frisbee

Do you have any female role models?

Nadia Comaneci is a role model of mine as she worked hard to achieve phenomenal results at the Olympics. This was during a very difficult time in Romania and she showed that barriers can be overcome to succeed. She continues to work and support gymnasts and is an active figure for many.

Why did you want to join the Fit For Girls programme?

In high school I was part of the Active Girls Committee and that for me was the start of understanding why some girls don’t want to participate in sports. The Fit for Girls programme was an opportunity that would allow me to continue volunteering in an area that I found important.  Sport has meant a lot to me and being part of the program would let me show girls the benefits of being active and help them be active. 

As a Fit for Girls Tutor, I want to help girls understand that sports shouldn’t be something to dread and that you can have a lot of fun being active. I want to be able to create a safe and welcoming environment for girls to share their stories and to find a sport to enjoy.

What have you learned so far?

So far I've learned how big an impact telling my story can have on the girls I speak to and that in return they are so much more willing to speak up and tell their stories. The workshops have given the girls so much confidence and momentum to start making the changes they want to see and it is really inspiring to hear what they have been up to when they come back to a Part 2 workshop. I've also gained more confidence in the way i deliver workshops which has let me connect more with the girls.

What is your advice for girls who want to get involved in sport?

Sport has many aspects to it and can have many benefits, so don’t be worried to try something new as there is always something you can learn from a new experience