Saskatoon may not typically be a top winter vacation spot, but the University of Saskatchewan Huskies women’s basketball team has been successful in attracting top international talent despite this. Over the last ten years, the Huskies have integrated European players into their roster, resulting in three national championships.
Head coach Lisa Thomaidis has played a key role in recruiting international players for the Huskies. With her experience as the national head coach for Canada and Germany, Thomaidis has built a network of contacts worldwide. The recruitment of Latvian guard Sabine Dukate in 2016 marked a turning point, inspiring the team to seek more international talent.
Currently, the Huskies, ranked No. 1, feature two international players – Swedish forward Olivia Harm and English guard Charli Wroe. Harm, in her second year with the team, highlights the growing trend of Swedish players moving to the U.S. Thomaidis scouted Harm during her high school years, impressed by the program’s reputation and academic offerings.
Bringing international players to Canada is not a simple task, according to Thomaidis, who has established connections in various countries over the years through her coaching experiences. Wroe, hailing from Manchester, chose to move north after spending time in the U.S., citing political and societal differences as contributing factors.
The quality of education, program success, and welcoming atmosphere at the University of Saskatchewan are significant attractions for international players like Wroe. The emphasis on teamwork in Canadian basketball also stands out to Wroe, who notes a shift from individual-focused play in the U.S. to a more collective approach in Canada.
Adjusting to life in Saskatoon has been a learning experience for Harm, who found the locals’ chattiness and casual interactions surprising. Despite facing cultural differences, Harm gradually settled into the routine, culminating in a successful first season highlighted by a national championship win.
As they gear up for the current season, both Harm and Wroe look forward to contributing to the Huskies’ success. Thomaidis envisions key roles for the players, with Harm’s versatility and Wroe’s experience adding depth to the team. The Huskies aim to defend their national title with determination and hard work, setting high expectations for themselves this season.
The team has started the season strongly, securing victories in their first four games by comfortable margins. Their upcoming matches against the Manitoba Bisons in Winnipeg will be a test of their early-season form.
