WOLFVILLE – Continuing to build their recruitment class for the 2024 season, the Acadia Axewomen are excited to welcome Kristen Simmons, a second player from the Ontario Scholastic Basketball Association (OSBA).
A 5’8 guard, Simmons most recently played for Niagara Prep during the 2023-24 season.
“Kristen is a high-energy guard that really impressed us with her ability to put the ball in the basket,” said head coach Len Harvey. “She has shown an ability to show up on the big stage, with big performances at multiple Canada Basketball national championships. More than that though, her competitive spirit and attitude really shines through and we’re very excited to have her here at Acadia to play for the Axewomen.”
Outside of her high school play, she was a member of Basketball New Brunswick’s provincial team in 2022 and 2023. In her first year she was a starter on the U17 team as an underager, leading the team in points per game and minutes per game. She was also top 10 in field goals made at the 2022 national championship.
Simmons followed that by being named team captain in 2023, leading the team in points per game and was the top player in the country in three pointers made at the U17 national championship.
“Just 10 minutes into my tour at Acadia I knew it was where I wanted to spend my university career, both academically and athletically,” she said. “There was an overwhelming sense of community, support and drive which was something you could tell each individual tries to foster. Add in the fact I would be playing for such a determined and dedicated coaching staff, alongside some of Canada’s best, made this decision all the easier. I can’t wait to get on the court and work with this team.”
Prior to playing a season for Niagara Prep, the Fredericton native played with Leo Hayes High School from 2020-23. During her 2022-23 season she averaged 24 points per game and in her Grade 9 year was the sole Grade 9 athlete on the varsity team.
Simmons will be working towards a business administration degree while at Acadia.