“…You sure as hell don’t want to wake up at the age of 40 and realize that your life sucks simply because you did what others said you were supposed to do.”
25366 Mike Shewfelt recently had the opportunity to sit down with Stephane Robert, Physical Educator / Curriculum Development Coordinator in RMCC’s Athletic Department.
e-Veritas: Why did you decide to come to the Royal Military College of Canada…?
Stephane Robert: I came to RMC simply because it afforded me the opportunity to do what I’m passionate about (i.e. coaching/teaching in the field of strength and conditioning). Previously I was working in a management position and, although it was still in the fitness industry, it didn’t allow the hands-on type of work I was truly looking for. Since being here I can honestly say I look forward to going to work every day – may sound like BS but it’s very true!
e-Veritas: What memories stand out for you from your time at the College, both good and bad…?
Stephane Robert: My greatest highlight was being selected as the Honourary Graduate for the Class of 2012. This proved to me that without a doubt I have something that the Cadets appreciate – whether it’s my attitude, teaching style or maybe it’s that they see that I’m truly passionate for what I do. Another great highlight of my time here has been working with the Sandhurst Team. They are some of the hardest working and professional (most of the time) individuals I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with. As for other highlights, I don’t like to sound cliché but I can honestly say that teaching and working with OCdts on a day-to-day basis is one of the best things I could ask for. And for bad highlights, I can’t think of one!
e-Veritas: You mentioned Sandhurst team, which you’ve spent a lot of time working with. How did you get involved in that, and what exactly do you do…?
Stephane Robert: I got involved with the Sandhurst team when I was approached by the team Captain, Lt. Nick Bouchard (then OCdt). Since then I’ve taken care of their physical training which involves 4 months of daily training sessions encompassing weight training, hill sprints, longer duration runs as well as other training means while sometimes mixed with military skills. The training itself is very difficult in nature and therefore requires candidates to show up for selection already at a fairly high level of fitness.
e-Veritas: What do you like about working with the Cadets…?
Stephane Robert: They’re young, passionate and full of energy (most of the time). It makes working with them always fun!
e-Veritas: If you could give any advice to the Cadets, what would it be…?
Stephane Robert: The absolute most important advice I could possibly give is to simply be honest with yourself. People will always tell you what to do, or who to be but if actual genuine happiness is what you want in life, then strive to find out who you really are. You sure as hell don’t want to wake up at the age of 40 and realize that your life sucks simply because you did what others said you were supposed to do.