Ciera Disipio Named All-Time Top 8 Academic All-Canadian

U-SPORTS has just announced the Top 8 Academic All-Canadians for the 2018-19 season and we are thrilled to share the news that CBU’s own Ciera Disipio has made the list for the second year in a row. 

Student-athletes achieve Academic All-Canadian status by having maintained an average of 80 per cent or better over the academic year while competing for a university varsity team. Among these outstanding individuals, one female and one male student-athlete from each of the four U SPORTS conferences are selected annually to make up the Top 8. 

An elite representative both on the field and in the classroom, Ciera continues to make Cape Breton University proud as she dominates AUS standings while simultaneously excelling in the Bachelor of Arts in Community Studies program. In 2015, Ciera won AUS Rookie of the Year, and then became the first player to win AUS Player of the Year three consecutive seasons in women’s soccer, taking home the award in 2017, 2018, and 2019. Last season, Ciera led the AUS in scoring and earned her third straight U-SPORTS First Team All-Canadian honours. Ciera is no stranger to success, taking home four AUS titles as well as silver and bronze U-SPORTS medals during her career with the CAPERS. 

Ciera’s success isn’t limited to her athletic ability, as the all-star has also been a Dean’s list student and a member of the Honour’s Society throughout her academic journey. “Ciera is a model student,” says Associate Professor and Canada Research Chair in Sport Coaching and Adult Learning, Bettina Callary. “Not only does she submit quality work and get excellent grades, but her attendance in classes and her participation in group work and discussions adds value to the class and demonstrates critical thinking.” 

In the community, the 22-year-old is involved with the Undercurrent Youth Centre, Fanatics in Training, Youth in Motion, Shoot for the Cure and the Student Advisory Council, to name just a few organizations. She is also a volunteer soccer coach with Soccer Cape Breton Under 17 team and in her hometown of Ottawa with the sports camp program called Game On.

“Ciera is a true pleasure to coach. During my association with her, I have come to know her as a fine young lady, who is admired by everyone who knows her,” say Capers head coach Ness Timmons. “Terrific as a player on the field, but her contribution as a team leader stands out even more.  As a team captain, she shows great leadership skills, and is considered a role model for all our players. She is a confident, caring individual who has great organizational skills and energy. She is an excellent teammate, and is always willing to go the extra mile. Her honesty, integrity, and unselfishness are second to none.”

Ciera will join her fellow recipients later this year at Rideau Hall, where the student-athletes will be recognized for their dedication and success.