Simon Fraser University Athletics

Breaking Barriers
Natalie was born in the charming city of Exeter in the southwest of England, where her love for basketball began in an after-school club. What started as a fun hour with friends quickly became a passion. With no local girls' team, she joined a boys' team, demonstrating her commitment.
 
Chasing Dreams Across the UK
At 15, Natalie made the brave decision to move to Nottingham to further her basketball career, playing in the British Pro League. Before this, sacrifices like long commutes to Bristol to play for a division 1 women’s team that often led to late nights and early mornings were made. Despite the challenges, her dedication never wavered.
 
A Bold Step to SFU
In her final year of high school, Natalie aspired to study and play basketball abroad. She reached out to numerous coaches, but it was Coach Langford at SFU who stood out. His genuine interest and knowledge about her made the decision easy. Within weeks, she committed to SFU, excited to embrace the opportunities in Canada.
 
Balancing Academics and Athletics
Now in her second year, Natalie is majoring in biomedical physiology, with dreams of becoming a surgeon. Her academic pursuits are ambitious, considering med schools in Canada, the US, or Australia. Balancing her studies with basketball requires discipline, but her passion for both keeps her focused.
 
On the Court: Skill and Strategy
As someone who aims to be a player with a pass-first mentality, Natalie enjoys reading the game and setting up plays. Her high basketball IQ and court vision make her a pivotal player. Her advice to her younger self is simple: play confidently and enjoy every moment, understanding that basketball is a temporary yet impactful journey.
 
Family Support: The Heart of Her Journey
Natalie's family has been her rock. Her mother, a former swimmer, spent countless hours driving her to practices and games, always encouraging her choices. Though her father, a busy surgeon, rarely saw her play, his presence at games was always cherished.
 
Proud Achievements
Representing Great Britain in the U18 and U20 national teams is a highlight of Natalie's career. Her accolades, including being named to the All-Star 5 at Nottingham academy as well, reflect her skill. These achievements motivate her to strive for more at SFU.
 
Goals and Aspirations
As a team, Natalie sees success as a playoff bound team. Individually, whether its for SFU WBB or for her national team, she intends on leaving a lasting impact, playing with heart and determination in every game.
 
What She Hopes to Inspire
Natalie wants her teammates to see her as reliable and supportive, always ready to help on and off the court. She hopes her coaches recognize her dedication, and fans feel inspired by her intensity and passion.
 
Finding a Home at SFU
Natalie chose SFU for the strong connections and sense of family she found with her teammates. Living with fellow teammates has deepened these bonds, creating a encouraging environment.