Being competitive is normal for most athletes, but for McMaster basketball star Taylor Chiarot, it is a way of life.   Her grandfather Gord Sr. played in the CFL for the Tiger-Cats and BC Lions, her dad Matt and Uncle Gord Jr. were each standout linebackers at Western and McMaster respectively, and her younger brother Ben plays hockey for St. John’s in the American Hockey League and is a top prospect for the Winnipeg Jets.

“Everything in our house turns into a competition, from video games to who can get up the stairs faster,” says Chiarot, who is in her final year with the Marauders. “Family dinners turn into debates about who’s won more and what accomplishments we’ve made.”   And the result of all this competitive verve, according to Chiarot, “I’m not a very good loser.”

A two-time OUA all-star, Taylor is having her best season yet and has McMaster back in the playoff hunt after missing out last year.  “Making it back to nationals would be a good way to end my Mac career,” said Chiarot, a resident of Scenic Drive on the west mountain. She has played in the CIS Tournament twice before. 

“Taylor loves to compete and is driven to win,” says McMaster Coach Theresa Burns, adding that Chiarot sets the tone for the entire team. “She pushes herself and her teammates every day to be the best they can be.”

A graduate of St. Mary’s high school, Chiarot wants to continue playing after graduation and will look to head overseas to pursue professional opportunities. “I know I’d regret it if I didn’t do it now,” she adds. “After I’m done playing, I’m thinking about going to teacher’s college but we’ll see.” 

For now, there is some competing left to be done.