From Stockholm to Red Deer

RDC Queens guard/forward Sophie Melin is an Open Studies student from Stockholm, Sweden

One of the many questions I have received since coming to Canada is why? Why leave my hometown of Stockholm to fly across the world to play basketball here in Red Deer. Well, it has always been a goal of mine to play basketball abroad and when I got the opportunity, I took it.

Coach Mandy Botham recruited me to play for Grande Prairie Regional College during the 2018-19 season and because I like to move around, Red Deer was the next stop. On one hand it was a big change to move from Sweden to Canada, with the cold weather, and coming from a capital city to a smaller one in Alberta. I am also very used to walking, or using other means of transportation in order to get around. Here it is a little different. If you do not have a truck, it is difficult.

Melin (12) is a positive leader on the Queens

However, there are also a lot of similarities between the two countries, especially when it comes to the game. In Sweden we talk a lot about team spirit and how we can make each other better by playing as a team rather than individuals. After coming to Canada and playing here, I realize this is one of the biggest similarities between the two countries. The game itself also has a lot of resemblance. I am used to the game being tough and I feel it is the same way here. You always have to fight for it. If there is a loose ball and you are not the first one on the ground, you will not get it.

Melin playing in Sweden

Canadians play a very fast game, which I am familiar with as well. You always try to push the pace down the floor if possible. This is one of the reasons why I think the Queens will have success this year. As early as the beginning of preseason we have talked about being a fast team. We want to be that team that is able to outrun the other team. We also have a big goal - to go to the playoffs. I believe this goal keeps us driven. Every shot, every rebound and every game matters.

Home opener on Oct. 19 - Rufus, Queens Sophie Melin, RDC President Dr. Peter Nunoda, Broncos Brittney Thibeaux