Name: Erica Wiebe
CAN Fund Recipient Since: 2015
Sport: Wrestling
Hometown: Stittsville, ON
Nickname: Wiebie
Horoscope Sign: Gemini
On The National Team Since: 2012
How does being a CAN Fund Recipient make a difference for you?
It was a difference maker to my season. When I first got the call from Conrad at CAN Fund it gave me so much motivation knowing there are everyday Canadians who are supporting my performance.
When was the moment you knew you wanted to represent Canada?
Watching Simon Whitfield whip off his hat at the 2008 Olympic Games and give it his all coming around the corner for the last couple meters in the Triathlon. This really cemented for me why I was doing what I was doing.
How did you get involved in your sport?
In grade 9 there was a sign posted outside of my school’s gymnasium for co-ed wrestling. I thought it would be a fun and unique experience so I coerced 3 of my best friends into joining with me. I was always involved in a number of sports but when I first stepped onto the mats something clicked. I felt this spark then and I still do now.
What is the best part about representing Canada?
Everyone is always begging to trade for Team Canada gear at major international events. It says something about what the maple leaf means internationally and how we are perceived. I am so proud to represent all that the maple leaf symbolizes.
Do you have any pre-competition superstitions or routines?
Right before I step onto the mat I always tell myself I am strong, confident and dynamic.
What are your words to live by or your motto?
Be yourself. It will always be enough.
What is the greatest advice a coach has ever given you?
“You have to be comfortable being uncomfortable” … acclimatizing to that feeling of discomfort in training gives that extra edge of being able to push past where anyone else is willing to go in competition.
What advice would you give to young kids or teenagers about following their dreams?
Just take the first step. Start your journey towards greatness and if you give it your all, the outcome will be more than you could have ever imagined.
What are you favourite places in the world you have visited?
I love all the unique places wrestling occurs; from Uzbekistan to Siberia straight to Madison Square Gardens.
What three items do you take with you on every road trip?
I always make sure I’m packing my singlet and wrestling boots… everything else is ancillary. Oh, and of course a big jar of NUTELLA!!
Describe your typical day:
Wake up. Breakfast and coffee. Lift. Coffee. School. Lunch. Answer Emails/Assignments. Pre-workout Snack. Wrestling Practice. Dinner. Read. Snuggle with Chris. Sleep & Dream of Wrestling Glory.
What is the most played song on your ipod?
Flawless by Beyonce
What is your favourite book?
Anything by Guy Gavriel Kay
What is your favourite sports team?
Liverpool FC
What is your favourite colour?
Red, white, and gold!
Twitter: @ericawiebe
Website: www.ericawiebe.com
Instagram: Wiebble
