Why Acadia will always feel like home to Sami Russell

Five years into her time wearing the Axewomen jersey, Sami Russell’s impact at Acadia has been defined by consistency, competitiveness, and care for the program she represents. One of the most reliable presences in the lineup, she has quietly climbed into the program’s record books - ranking fifth all-time in scoring, fourth in rebounds, and top-10 in field goals, free throws, and assists - while becoming a steady leader both on and off the court. Now in her final season, Russell reflects not just on what she’s accomplished, but on where she comes from, why Acadia feels like home, and what it has meant to grow alongside a program that has shaped her just as much as she has shaped it.

When I think about the concept of “home,” the first thing that comes to mind is the community I was lucky enough to be part of growing up in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia.

It’s where I made lifelong friends and learned the value of loyalty, teamwork, and showing up for the people around me.

I’d say that those early experiences shaped my values and identity more than anything else.

Falling in love with the game

Because I have three older sisters who all played basketball, I spent a lot of my childhood in the gym.

Watching them and their teammates is where my love for the sport started. I remember wanting to be exactly like them when I grew up.

As a player, I’ve always felt that basketball was the perfect mix of freedom and competitiveness.

I loved being able to express myself, have fun, and push myself within the same game.

It’s what drew me to the sport and why it became such an important and meaningful constant in my life.

Finding my place

I’ve always felt a strong connection to Acadia.

My father went to school here and played on the football team from 1975–1977.

So, when I had the opportunity to join a program where I could play with and be coached by some of the best, it felt like a no-brainer.

On top of that, the campus is beautiful, and everyone is so kind and welcoming.

It was the perfect fit for me.

And there’s never been a day over the last five years where I’ve taken the privilege of being an Acadia student-athlete for granted.

There have been many lessons learned and battles fought, and I’m really grateful to be part of it all.

It ties me to the girls who played before me and built this program, along with the community who supports us.

In a lot of ways, it’s a continuation of the legacy my dad left here, and I take that responsibility seriously.

Leading by example

Being in the program for five years now, I’ve learned that leadership isn’t about a title or being the loudest voice.

It’s about leading by example, showing up consistently, and being a positive influence on and off the court.

It’s about understanding the responsibility and accountability that comes with being an Axewomen.

I hope to inspire my teammates and the younger generation, especially little girls, to believe in themselves and their abilities.

If I can make even one kid feel like they belong in this sport, that means everything to me.

Moments like these

I’ll never forget last year when my roommate, teammate, and close friend Taya hit a game-winning three-pointer against PEI.

The entire gym erupted, and in that moment, everything felt still for me.

It’s one of those moments that will always capture what Acadia Athletics means to me.

The energy, the connection, and the pride I felt for her and our team—it’s indescribable.

We truly have the best fans in the country, and they’re a huge reason I show up the way I do.

I’ll be walking home from class, and people will roll down their windows just to congratulate us after a big win.

Little girls come up after games asking for pictures and autographs.

Regular supporters become friends, and friends become regular supporters.

The community here is something I’ll never forget.

It’s something I know I’ll miss.

Regardless of what my future holds, the lessons and experiences I’ve gained through basketball and my time at Acadia will always be a part of me.

I have no doubt about that.

It’s what makes Acadia home.

Our weekly student-athlete features share the stories of Axemen and Axewomen in their own words. From why they chose Acadia, to how they found their sport, to the people and moments that have shaped their journey, these first-person pieces highlight the experiences, challenges, and triumphs of Acadia’s student-athletes on and off the field.