Dr. Leah Robinson is serving her country — on and off the court.
A chiropractor at Blessingways Family Wellness in Airdrie and a reservist in the Canadian Navy, Robinson also represents Canada on the Canadian Forces International Women’s Basketball Team. She has competed globally since 2017 in countries like Belgium, Germany and China.
“Dr. Leah Robinson is much more than a chiropractor,” says nominator Melanie Beingessner.
Robinson’s athletic journey began at age five, evolving through provincial, university and now professional play.
Despite the challenges of limited team-training time, her determination never wavers.
“It’s difficult to find basketball courts that are available for me to train alone,” says Robinson. “So, I train on the outside courts, even if it’s super cold, to be able to get my shots in.”
Although this can be challenging, her dedication and sticktoitiveness has paid off.
“I did not make the university team in my first year and that truly felt like my world was broken,” Robinson says. “However, I didn’t let that stop me from training harder and trying again. I then made the team in my last two years, and I improved so much and that’s what got me to the professional basketball team in the military.
“I am so thankful I never stopped trying, because basketball is a huge part of me.”
The AAWAs are celebrating their Sweet 16 in 2026. What advice would you give to your 16-year-old self?
I would tell her to continue to push herself and believe that good things come from it.