Profile: Brittany Sullivan

By Natasha White, Staff Contributor

Doctors told Brittany Sullivan she might never run again. With two torn discs in her back, the Tigers women’s basketball player faced not only life without basketball, but a life without full mobility. For the then-20-year old, it was a game-changer.

“I knew that unless I challenged myself with something other than ball, I’d end up in a dark place mentally,” Sullivan said.

Her focus then turned solely to academics; she chose to pursue combined honours degree in political science and French. Now 22, Sullivan is working on a master’s degree in French, and has her sights set on Law school.

“Being a bilingual lawyer will definitely help when I move back home.” Home for Brittany is four hours away in beautiful Mirimachi, New Brunswick.

Thanks to some seriously dedicated family members, Mirimachi comes to Brittany several times over the school year.

“My parents never miss a home game. They go to most away games too – except Cape Breton and Newfoundland.” And the support doesn’t stop there. Grandma and Grandpa Sullivan, Betty and Eddy, are also hard-core Tiger fans. Eddy can be heard from the bleachers barking out helpful advice to the refs and supportive encouragement to his granddaughters.

While out for the past two seasons Brittany and the Sullivan clan have had reasons to cheer. Brittany is joined on the Tigers’ squad by roommate, best friend and all-around favourite person, sister Brooke Sullivan.

After two long years of painful rehab, Brittany’s back on the court. She’s conscious not to push herself too hard in practices, letting her back dictate the intensity level.

A versatile player, Sullivan says she’s most comfortable in the ‘1’ position. But judging by the current Tiger line-up saturated with guards, Coach Stammberger will likely place the 5’8” baller a bit deeper in the key. Brittany cites her “experience” and “play-making abilities” as her greatest contributions to a young Tiger team—great attributes for a team that is searching for a new identity this season.