Convocation ‘23: Treyl Ernst, BA Physical Education, Augustana Campus

Treyl Ernst, BA Physical Education, Augustana Campus

From student athlete to community builder

Learn About the Program

Born and raised in Watrous, Saskatchewan, Treyl Ernst was a natural athlete intent on turning his passion into a career. He knew the close-knit atmosphere of Augustana Campus would in many ways replicate his small town experience and, at the same time, offer him the opportunity to realize his dreams in a setting that was both welcoming and world-class in terms of its athletics program. 

As a physical education major, with a minor in psychology, Treyl joined the Augustana Vikings Men’s Volleyball team in his first year, which proved to be an invaluable experience. More than a training ground and the source of life-long friendships, Treyl carried it forward as a community builder, coach and volunteer, including a two-year stint with the Vikings University Athletics Board (UAB), beginning in 2020, its inaugural year.  

“The UAB’s goals were to improve the depth of the varsity experience, give back to the community and represent student-athletes to the campus population at large,” says Treyl.

Now considering a master’s degree in sports psychology, Treyl is working as head strength and conditioning coach at the Park Baseball Academy in Sherwood Park.

Congratulations, Treyl!

What led you to choose your current area of study, and why the U of A Augustana for your studies?

I've always been an athlete and interested in sports and thought I would go into healthcare of some kind. When it came time to apply for university I decided that the [kinesiology and sports studies stream in the physical education degree] would give me the ability to follow those aspirations while giving me more time to figure out exactly what I wanted to do.

What is one of your favourite memories from your time at Augustana?

Not specifically but in general the road trips with the Augustana Vikings are something that I'll never forget. The bond that our team had was unmatched compared to any other team I have been a part of and I am so blessed to have met so many like-minded people.

Tell us about your favourite professor and/or class.

This one is tough, many professors standout, they all genuinely want you to succeed and want the best for your learning. My top three: Dallas Ansell; Rebecca Purc-Stephenson and Ardelle Ries. Dallas taught AUPED 261 - Psychology of Sport, which sparked a new interest and is now the path that I am looking to follow.

Did you take on any leadership roles while you were a student, either on campus or in the Camrose community? 

I took over the 15U Raptors Volleyball Club boys team with my teammate Robbie Taylor last winter (2022). I also sat on the Vikings University Athletics Board (UAB), from its inauguration in 2020 until 2022. The UAB’s goals were to improve the depth of the varsity experience, give back to the community and represent student-athletes to the campus population at large.

Did you face any significant obstacles or challenges during your program?

My biggest challenge, like everyone, was the pandemic. I was just about to finish my first year when the university shut down. I then didn't return to a classroom until the second half of my second year and from that point on I was taking a combination of online and in-person classes. It was a difficult adjustment to make but it also taught me how grateful I am for person-to-person interactions.

What advice do you have for current and future students?

Take advantage of the close-knit community. At Augustana, you'll build genuine relationships not only with fellow students but also with professors. Engage in conversations, attend campus events and participate in clubs or organizations that align with your interests. The smaller size makes Augustana truly a special place.

How do you plan on celebrating convocation?

I don't really have any big plans.

What's next after graduation?

Since I have finished school, I landed a position as head strength and conditioning coach at the Park Baseball Academy in Sherwood Park! I am in the process of looking into a master’s degree in sport psychology.