Name: Maria Hapca
School/university/college/job/Volunteering: In my 2nd year studying Medicine at Glasgow University. I also work part time as a Lifeguard.
Sport (s): Netball and swimming
Who is your female role model in sport? When I was younger my cousin competed internationally in athletics competitions and would always encourage me to join in her training sessions when I visited. She showed me the benefits of sports and what I could get out of being active.
Nadia Comaneci was another role model of mine as she achieved amazing results at the Olympics during a very oppressing time and it showed that barriers can always be overcome.
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. Sports has meant a lot to me and being part of the program would let me show girls the benefits of being active and help find their sport.
What do you want to achieve as a Fit for Girls Tutor? 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.
Your message to girls wanting 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.