The University of Saskatchewan Huskies women’s basketball team has been successful in recruiting top international talent despite Saskatoon not being a popular winter vacation spot. Over the past decade, the team has added European players to their roster, leading to three national championships. Head coach Lisa Thomaidis, who has coaching experience in Canada and Germany, has been instrumental in attracting these international players.
The recruitment of Latvian guard Sabine Dukate in 2016 marked a turning point, inspiring the team to look beyond national borders for talent. The current No. 1-ranked Huskies feature Swedish forward Olivia Harm and English guard Charli Wroe, both of whom have been valuable additions to the team.
Harm, in her second year with the Huskies, highlighted the trend of Swedish players seeking opportunities in the United States. Thomaidis, known for her extensive network, plays a crucial role in scouting and bringing international players to Canada.
Wroe, originally from Manchester, spent time in the U.S. before joining the Huskies. She cited the welcoming environment and educational opportunities at the University of Saskatchewan as key factors in her decision to move north.
The style of play in Canada differs from that in the U.S., with a greater emphasis on teamwork and strategy. Both Harm and Wroe had to adjust to the cultural differences in Saskatoon, with Harm finding the local friendliness a pleasant surprise.
As the team aims for another national championship, Thomaidis sees Harm and Wroe playing vital roles. Harm’s resilience and versatile skills make her a valuable asset, while Wroe’s experience adds depth to the team. The Huskies are optimistic about their prospects for the season, having secured impressive wins in their initial games.
Their next challenge awaits as they face off against the Manitoba Bisons in Winnipeg on Thursday and Friday.