2016-09-13 16:37:00 CET
Wilkerson wants to do herself justice alongside Heather
Brandie Wilkerson says she is honored to be asked by Heather Bansley to team-up for the Swatch Beach Volleyball FIVB World Tour Finals.
The 24-year-old jumped at the chance to partner the Olympic quarterfinalist ahead of the country quota clash of the competition that everybody is talking about.
But despite all the talk of Heather and her split with Sarah Pavan, Brandie is loving the fact she isn’t the center of attention.
“I think the less attention on me the better,” the resident of Toronto told us. “It’s better that way – it’s not my story to tell, it’s not about me – I don’t want it to be all about me and I don’t need the limelight. I just want to be here and play well.”
She was partner with Julie Gordon since April 2015 until Bansley came calling but Wilkerson is relishing the opportunity to star alongside a player who finished fifth in Rio.
“It was really cool and I felt honored to be one of her options and all I hope is that I can play the best I can,” she says.
“Heather’s been great. She’s a great mentor and leader. I’ve always been so respectful of the Canadian players so it’s nice to be in that circle for a bit and just learn from the best.
“It was all handled between Heather and Sarah and all that Heather said to me was ‘do you want to play? Do you want to try this out and see how this tournament goes?’”
The hugely-anticipated country quota clash is the ultimate taster to the tournament with the main draw kicking off on Wednesday.
Heather and Brandie take to the Center Court at 5pm on Tuesday so either get yourself down to Polson Pier and enjoy free entry – or watch on our live stream.
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