With scholarships alleviating financial pressures, Brody Clarke has been able to focus on academics and be a role model for teammates.
When Brody Clarke joined in the singing of our national anthem on a basketball court in Greece two years ago as a member of Team Canada, the moment got to him.
"It was very emotional," he said. "We were representing more than ourselves - it was about something much bigger."
The six foot seven forward was the only player from the Canadian university league to make the national team that played at the U19 FIBA World Championships.
He had just finished his first year in engineering at the University of Alberta and, ironically, hadn't even played for the U of A Golden Bears that year. He sat out the first season as he was recovering from double knee surgery the year before.
"It's inspiring to watch for all of us, and the financial scholarship support the U of A has in place is a crucial factor in recruitment of high achievers like Brody."
Barnaby Craddock, head coach of Golden Bears basketball
Clarke, who hails from Toronto and comes from a family of NCAA players, could have easily opted to go play in the United States. But he chose to come study and play at the U of A because of the athletic and academic programs and, just as importantly, because of the scholarship opportunities.
After recovering from surgery and then playing on Team Canada, Clarke has moved into a starring role in the Golden Bears lineup.
"Brody is the perfect example of a Golden Bear," said Barnaby Craddock, head coach of the team. "He excels on and off the court because he is constantly working to become the best version of himself possible. It's inspiring to watch for all of us, and the financial scholarship support the U of A has in place is a crucial factor in the recruitment of high achievers like Brody."
In the 2015-16 season, Clarke was named Canada West Rookie of the Year. He's also an Academic All-Canadian, maintaining an average of 80 per cent or better over the academic year in the demanding civil engineering program.
"We have a big brother, little brother relationship," said Clarke of the camaraderie between his teammates. "When I started out, the older guys supported me and wanted me to have my chance. Now I'm in my third year and doing my part to help new team members."