Cool Cat: Cam Devereux

Interview by Noah Wright | Photos by Farid Askerov, Michael S. White & Alejandro Sanchez Ochoa

When thinking of college, many will think of four years then graduation. For Cameron Devereux, however, her undergraduate degree in exercise science was just the start to her higher education. This Renton, Washington native is now back in pursuit of her masters in sports and athletic administration. Devereux is CWU Athletics’ newest strength and conditioning coach. Here’s why you should know this cool cat. 

What made you choose to attend CWU the first time?

I chose CWU because it was unlike the other in-state schools. Growing up in a suburban city, I loved the change of scenery that Ellensburg had to offer. When I selected Central I didn’t know what I wanted to major in or do with my career, so I think I feel really lucky I ended up liking it. I also really liked that there was no Greek life and that class sizes would be smaller.

What brought you back the second time?

I had worked at a few different places since getting my undergrad but none of them were exactly what I dreamed of doing with my career. Ultimately, my plan is to be a strength coach at a university and I need to get my masters to be considered for any opportunities. When I saw Central had posted an opening for a graduate assistant position, I felt called to apply. I remember exactly what day and where I was when I received the call offering me the position. A very exciting moment because I knew this was the path I wanted for myself and my career.

What do you hope to gain from your second experience at CWU?

I plan to learn a lot. I think during my undergrad I was able to coast by and get decent grades without actually absorbing what I was learning. I kind of want a “redo” in how I go about being a student. The graduate assistantship gives me the hands-on coaching experience in a collegiate setting which has been my career goal since I came into this industry.

How has CWU changed since you attended the school?

The most noticeable physical changes are definitely the recreation complex addition and the updated football stadium. I love seeing Central improving its facilities. I think the town itself has made positive improvements and is catering to locals and students much more. I love how involved the community is and that downtown has so many more businesses and things to do. It feels much livelier.

Besides education, what did you take part in while attending the first time?

I played club soccer my freshman and senior years but in between that I played varsity rugby from 2014 to 2016. I was convinced by a few friends to try out, even though I had never played before, and I am so glad I did. Even though we were a first-year varsity program, we made it to the National Championship in 2015. 

Playing rugby for the short amount of time I did brought me so many relationships and stories that have carried well beyond my time at Central. I always look back and am so thankful for that experience and I know that wouldn’t have happened at any other school.

What was it like being a student athlete at CWU?

It’s definitely not easy or for the weak minded. It is a constant, conscious choice to be up for those early morning weights, to stay attentive during class, to get to practice on time and to prioritize schoolwork before socializing. 

I’d say the best part was always having friends anywhere I went. I feel there are no better friends than the teammates who you work to accomplish goals with. Friends who are there as a source of accountability for you to be the greatest version of yourself.

Is this your first career after graduating? 

After graduating, I immediately went into the health and fitness industry. I stayed on the east side and worked at a small-business gym in Wenatchee. 

From there I moved to California and coached at Mamba Sports Academy until coming back to Seattle for the first time in my adult life and coached at another small business gym in my hometown. At this same gym, I was able to meet and work with the Seattle Seawolves Major League Rugby team prior to their canceled 2020 season. 

Working alongside these incredibly talented athletes, as well as the heartening staff, inspired me to continue striving to coach athletes. All of this experience added so much value and perspective into my career and I am grateful for each and every one of them as I’ve been able to take different aspects with me that I want to carry out as a coach.

In the end though, these jobs didn’t have the opportunity for personal and career growth I was needing which led me back to Central to pursue strength and conditioning in college athletics.

What are three interesting facts about you?

I sang in choir throughout high school and college and can play piano. I even considered majoring in music!

I have a German Shepherd. Her name is Charlie.

I love to snowboard in the winter!

What is a quote you live by?

“For what it’s worth: it’s never too late or, in my case, too early to be whoever you want to be. There’s no time limit, stop whenever you want. You can change or stay the same, there are no rules to this thing. We can make the best or the worst of it. I hope you make the best of it. And I hope you see things that startle you. I hope you feel things you never felt before. I hope you meet people with a different point of view. I hope you live a life you’re proud of. If you find that you’re not, I hope you have the courage to start all over again.” – F. Scott Fitzgerald

Do you have any words of wisdom for our student readers?

I know it’s going to sound so cliché but enjoy your time here. Do not take it for granted because once it’s over, it’s over. You have the rest of your life to work after graduation so have fun. Meet new people, try new things, ask that person out, adventure more, be selfish but be kind, say yes and thank you more often and appreciate being surrounded by your friends.

Is there anything else to add? 

I can honestly say I never thought I’d be back at Central or ever getting my masters. Some of my friends from undergrad still think I’m crazy for moving back here but I don’t think there is any other place I’d rather be.