Axewomen add international point guard Hayley Coopman

The Acadia Axewomen basketball program has added international experience to its backcourt with the commitment of Belgian guard Hayley Coopman for the upcoming Atlantic University Sport season. 

Coopman, a 5’6 point guard from Ostend, Belgium, joins the Axewomen after developing through both the youth and senior systems in Belgium, along with collegiate experience in the United States. She plans to study environmental and sustainability studies at Acadia. 

“We're really excited that Hayley chose to come to Acadia,” said Axewomen coach Len Harvey. “She is an intelligent, experienced guard who will bring a steady presence to our group next season. Her compete level, her desire to improve, as well as her undeniable love and passion for the game came across loud and clear, and she will fit in so well here in Wolfville.”

Coopman has built a diverse basketball résumé across multiple levels. She spent time playing in Belgium with clubs including Sparta Laarne, Bruges, and Knesselare, competing against high-level talent and establishing herself as a steady and reliable performer throughout her youth and senior career. 

Most recently, she competed with Gembas Knesselare in Belgium’s second-highest division, continuing her progression at the senior level. Earlier in her career, she also played with Sparta Laarne’s first team, gaining experience in top-level competition and appearing in playoff action at a young age. 

“Hayley's relentless work on her game and her attitude was actually what allowed us to connect,” said Harvey. “Two friends who had worked with Hayley told me that she was a 'must get' for us here, and that there was a lot of synergy with how we do things. After getting to know her more and seeing what they were talking about, we were really excited about her coming over to play here.”

Coopman also gained international experience during her time at Cuesta College in California, further expanding her game in a competitive collegiate environment. 

Her development has included training opportunities alongside top-level players, including Belgian national team member Julie Vanloo, helping refine her skills as a point guard. Coopman said the opportunity to study and compete in Canada is something she has worked toward for years. 

“Studying abroad in Canada would be the realization of one of my childhood dreams,” she said. “From a young age, I’ve always wanted to go abroad and continue the sport I’m so passionate about. Combining this with studying in another country and learning about their culture is what my real dream is about.

“I’m motivated to grow and challenge myself for this amazing adventure.”