Michelle Sawatzky-Koop

Michelle Sawatzky-Koop teaches people who dare to dream that they can overcome life’s obstacles.

Michelle began her athletic career when she was recruited to play volleyball with the University of Manitoba Lady Bisons from 1988 to 1993. At the University of Manitoba she was the starting setter as they won the National Championship in 1990, ’91 and ’92.

Internationally, Michelle was a member of the Junior National team in 1990 and also of two World Student Games teams in 1991 and 1992.

In 1995, she was part of the bronze medal finish at the Pan American Games in Argentina. The team qualified for the Olympic Games and in July of that same year, the team finished 9th at the Summer Olympics in Atlanta.

Michelle relates her inspiring story of growing up in Canada and against the odds achieving her dream of making it to the Olympics on the Canadian National Team. She was constantly being underestimated by coaches and team members because of her relatively short stature as a volleyball player.

But her love of the game and her determination to practice, train, and work hard toward her dream allowed her to navigate the obstacles.

Michelle is a co-founder of Heroes in our Midst podcast. In addition to the podcast, Heroes in Our Midst also offer services to help corporations and individuals achieve their potential through workshops, collaboration and training. Heroes walk among us; they are in our midst every day.