By: Marie Jen Galilo, Sports and Science Editor
Macyn Unger is a fifth-year criminology major and senior libero on the SFU Women’s Volleyball team. At the age of seven, she started playing volleyball and had extensive volleyball experience before SFU. She played volleyball for Duchess Park Secondary and represented Team BC in high school. She also played for the Prince George Kodiaks Youth Volleyball Club. In the summer of 2025, she participated in Canada’s NextGen volleyball program.
Editor’s note: This piece has been edited for clarity and length.
Q: What is your favourite thing about volleyball?
A: I love the competitive nature of volleyball and the opportunity to be part of a team, especially when I get to share that experience with some of my closest friends.
Q: What is your favourite volleyball move and why?
A: My favourite part of volleyball is definitely digging. As a libero, it’s a big part of my role, and I love being able to keep the ball off the floor and turn a tough play into an opportunity for my team.
Q: What inspired you to become a volleyball player?
A: I was really inspired by my older sister. I was always watching her play and spending time around her volleyball teams. Being around the sport so much made me fall in love with it, and that passion has stayed with me ever since.
Q: What do you do to unwind after a long day of practice?
A: I like to spend time with my friends, get outside and do something fun, and then of course end the day relaxing and scrolling through TikTok.
Q: How do you balance sports and school? Do you have any tips for students on how to balance other life commitments with academics?
A: I try to plan out my semester as much as possible. Staying organized helps me avoid falling behind and makes it easier to set aside dedicated time for school while still prioritizing training, recovery, and my overall well-being as a student athlete. My biggest advice would be to stay organized, plan ahead, and make sure you are still leaving time to rest and take care of yourself.
Q: What is something you’re looking forward to in the Fall Semester for your sport?
A: I’m really excited for our preseason tournaments and getting the chance to compete alongside my friends again. Our goal is to compete for another Great Northwest Athletic Conference Championship and hopefully make a strong run at a national championship, too.

