© JumpStory
Currently, the Šiauliai "Gintra-Universiteto" football players are still enjoying their summer holidays, but soon the Lithuanian champions will return to training and start an intensive preparation phase for the UEFA Women's Champions League. While we can still take a break from football matches, we were interested in finding out what unique hobbies the Havaiian-born "Gintra-Universiteto" defender McKenna Davidson, who has been living in Lithuania for over half a year, engages in during her free time and how much time she spends on social networks daily.
McKenna, you come from one of the most exotic places in the world - the Havaiian islands. What do you miss the most while living in Lithuania? - I miss my family, friends, the beach, the ocean, but all of that is normal. Being abroad always brings stronger feelings for your own country. However, I can honestly say that I enjoy life in Šiauliai. I first came to Lithuania last year when I was still representing the Wexford "Youths" club and I really liked it here. Lithuania has a particularly beautiful period between spring and summer when nature naturally awakens, trees start turning green, the sun rises earlier, and you can enjoy fresh, but warm weather outdoors. I'm glad to have generated interest from the "Gintra" club, which gave me the opportunity to come back here and not only compete in the UEFA Women's Champions League again but also experience new adventures.
During the two rounds in the A League, the coach tested you in multiple positions. Which position do you feel most comfortable in? - I can play wherever the team needs me, but personally, the most acceptable position for me is in the left back. Essentially, the most important thing is that we understand each other on the field, and I think we have been doing that better and better. I hope that after the holidays, we will be even more united and strive to achieve common team goals.
Last season you played in Ireland, and this year in Lithuania. What are the biggest differences you see? - There are quite a few differences. If we talk about the local championships of these countries, it is obvious that "Gintra-Universitetas" does not face much opposition in the A League, while the Irish championship is more competitive. However, excluding the process itself, it is more professional here. We train every day, while in Ireland, we only had two to three practices a week.
Let's continue the conversation not about football. What are your other leisure activities, hobbies? - I have quite a few hobbies; I enjoy various leisure activities. I am one of those people who want to try everything. I really enjoy horseback riding, we even have our own farm in Hawaii, so horses have been my second love since childhood after football. I am also interested in arts, I like to paint, engage in digital art creation. The indispensable form of leisure in my life is also the beaches, enjoying the sun and the diversity of nature.
You mentioned that you are a creator - you even have your own personal digital art website where there are a lot of your creations available for purchase. Is it more of a form of self-expression or an opportunity to earn extra money? - It's both. Initially, it all started with a hobby of drawing, but when I received compliments and requests to create individual designs, I thought I could try to create my own business platform. I am still developing this idea, I am pleased that it brings me joy, and I use my free time as effectively as possible.
You have two separate "Instagram" profiles - personal and dedicated to showcasing your digital art creations. What can be found in them and what makes them special? - My personal "Instagram" profile @kennahawaii essentially tells the story of my life, though not in much detail. I try to convey special moments, share beautiful images without copying anything, so I can confidently say that it is unique. On my study account @kennahawaiistudio, I share the digital design works created by me, I respond to inquiries, and simply create exclusive content related to art.
You also have a "Twitter" account where you share impressions about the latest life adventures or express your position on a certain current topic. How much time do you generally spend on social networks per day? - I would say not too much, but it depends on various circumstances. One day, I may not even log in, but on another, for example, I want to provide a certain insight on "Twitter," so I spend an hour or even longer writing it. Social networks are a tool for me not only to reveal details about my life but also to be interested in the adventures of family, friends, or other interesting personalities, especially when I am so far from my native lands.
