When first-year physiotherapy student Joaquina Yuen walks into Varsity Arena, she isn't just arriving at work - she's stepping into a community she has grown with, learned from and helped shape over the past five years. 

Now serving as the student coordinator for Varsity Blues women's hockey home games, Yuen has consistently worked within Faculty of Kinesiology & Physical Education, continuing a journey that began long before she entered graduate school. 

A proud U of T alum, she first completed her undergraduate degree in Kinesiology, laying the foundation for her career path and her long-standing involvement in athletics. 

"Growing up as an athlete, sports have always been a huge part of my life," she said. "I knew I wanted to build a career around that passion, which is why I chose to study kinesiology at U of T." 

During high school and her early undergraduate years, Yuen's curiosity for physiotherapy began to grow. Volunteering as a physiotherapy assistant at multiple clinics helped crystallize her direction. 

"I worked with patients and saw their progress firsthand. It brought me so much joy, and it really reinforced that this is what I want to do. I want to help people move, heal and get back to doing what they love." 

Today, that passion has carried her into the Temerty Faculty of Medicine, where she is completing her Master's in Physical Therapy. 

"After graduating, I hope to work as a pediatric physiotherapist in a hospital. The U of T program gives us incredible in-field experiences and the chance to collaborate with interdisciplinary healthcare teams. I know it's preparing me well to make a meaningful impact." 

Yuen first learned about working with Varsity Blues athletics the same way many students do, through social media. 

"They advertised openings across different sports, and since I grew up playing hockey and always loved the sport, I thought it would be a great fit. It felt like the perfect way to blend my interests and skills." 

She joined as event staff in 2021, supporting multiple sports and gaining exposure to the fast-paced world of game operations. Last season, she stepped into the student coordinator role, which was a transition she remembers as equal parts exciting and intimidating. 

"I definitely felt a bit nervous during my first few shifts," she recalled. "We were expected to have quick reactions, stay focused and handle the clock, game sheet, stats and video accurately and on time. There was a learning curve for sure, but once I understood the roles, work became fun. I could enjoy the game while doing my job." 

Behind the scenes, she found strong mentorship and leadership from event managers and coordinators who helped her grow. 

"They made the transition so smooth. I always felt supported and encouraged to develop new skills." 

Across five years with Varsity Blues Athletics, Yuen has countless memories, but one stands above the rest. 

"The women's hockey team winning the McCaw Cup in 2023 is something I will never forget. It felt like the whole arena was vibrating with energy. Every play got a reaction from the crowd. I remember feeling this mix of nerves and excitement while trying to stay focused on my job." 

As the game intensified, so did the atmosphere. And when the Varsity Blues finally clinched the championship, the arena erupted. 

"Being part of that celebration was incredibly special," she said. "The sense of camaraderie among the players, staff and fans made it clear just how much this victory meant to everyone involved. It struck me how much I had come to care about the team's journey and how this job was not just about the games, but about the connections we built along the way. 

"That win was a reminder of the passion and resilience that bind us together as a community and it deepened my appreciation for what it means to be part of the Varsity Blues." 

A more recent highlight for Yuen has been stepping into her coordinator role, which was a shift that expanded not only her responsibilities but also her relationships. 

"A standout memory for me was transitioning into the student coordinator role last season," she said. "This change allowed me to work more closely with coaches, players, and other staff members, which truly enriched my experience." 

It was the small, everyday interactions that made her feel like she belonged. 

"As I got to know everyone better, they would greet me with warm smiles. Those interactions really brightened my day. These genuine connections made me feel like I was truly part of the team. Knowing that my contributions were valued added a new layer of fulfillment to my role." 

For Yuen, the people around her have been one of the best parts of the experience. From coaches and players to the broader staff community. 

"My favourite thing has been connecting with people who share the same passion for sports that I do," she said. "Whether it's the social media team, promotions or photographers, we're all working toward the same goal — making Varsity Blues sports entertaining and creating an incredible experience for teams and fans." 

Outside of her work study role and graduate studies, Yuen also stays involved in the hockey community as a member of the Tri-Campus Women's Hockey St. George Red team, where she has played since the team's inaugural season. 

The team has seen rapid growth. From winning the 2023–24 championship to drawing more than 40 players to tryouts this past year. This season, she was named an alternate captain. 

"It has been so much fun to grow with these girls. Hockey gives me balance. It lets me take my mind off school, move, socialize and just enjoy the game." 

For incoming U of T students, Yuen emphasizes the importance of choosing a path that genuinely inspires you. 

"Follow your passion. You'll spend four or more years studying this subject and even more time working in that field. Explore, volunteer, get involved in clubs — gaining experience is crucial." 

For those applying to work with Varsity Blues Athletics, her message is simple: 

"Be open-minded and willing to learn. The environment is fast-paced and sometimes unpredictable, but that's what makes it exciting. Teamwork and adaptability go a long way." 

And perhaps most importantly: 

"Always have fun. Find joy in the small things: in work, in school, in the people you meet. Step outside your comfort zone because you never know what exciting opportunity is waiting for you." 

Her journey with the Varsity Blues began as a job. It became a passion. And now, as she continues into her career, it remains a source of pride, purpose and connection.