EDMONTON (2015 FIBA U19 Women's World Championship) - Having been called up into the senior Canada squad for the recent tour of Europe, it looks like Shay Colley is ready to be a power at the FIBA U19 Women's World Championship.

She already has a good track record at the event, having helped take her country to the Quarter Finals of the competition when going up against older players in Lithuania two years ago.

Since impressing in 2013, the playmaker has been trying to take her game to a new level and this will actually be her third global outing - having put her first foot down on the world stage back in 2012.

"The FIBA U17 Women's World Championship was my first international experience," explained the teenager, who has harvested huge benefit from wearing Team Canada colours.

"I recall that I was a little nervous and not really sure what to expect, but once we started to play the nerves disappeared and it was just basketball.

"Meeting new people from all over the world was a great experience and every player was excited to be in Amsterdam.

"Then a year later, the U19 experience was different from U17, because the competition was very intense and a higher level of play.

"I was the youngest player on the team and I really had to play with poise and control - especially as a point guard, who has to see the game differently.

It was a great experience, since I was able to play against some of the best players in the world. - Colley

"I was able to develop confidence and a greater awareness of how the game is played at the international level," said the 1.73m guard.

"I learned a lot and also exploring Eastern Europe was exciting and sharing that experience with my team-mates was even better."

It's a trip back to a similar part of the world for Colley this time around and there is only one thing on her mind.

"The goal is always to win gold," she declared, as she prepares to turn the screw for her team next month.

"Our collective best is always the goal.

"On the court I think I am aggressive and I will be trying to be dominant to allow for my team's success.

"Although off the court, I am very laid back and I enjoy outdoor activities, shopping, volunteering and giving back my time to others."

You certainly can't blame the 19-year-old for aiming high and having led the team last year at the FIBA Americas U18 Women's Championship, she has the ability to exert considerable influence on proceedings.

Being catapulted into the senior set-up has been an additional boon and there could barely be a better time to be involved with the women’s programme which is thriving at various levels.

"I am excited by our collective hard work as it is garnering the attention it deserves," mused Colley, who was ruled out of a European senior adventure by a last minute injury.

"It has shown that age is never a barrier in sport.

Canada Basketball's hard work into player development is allowing us to perform at the highest level internationally. - Colley

"I was excited and honoured to be called up and to have the training and exposure to players and coaches at senior level, who all have so much experience and knowledge.

"Being amongst Canada's finest is a privilege and an honour."

As well as leaning on her new colleagues to help elevate her game, Colley was also quick to point out that she finds another source of strength much closer to home.

"My family inspires me because of their undying commitment, support and sacrifice.

"My success is their success," she concluded proudly.

Canada will play Belgium, France and Mali in Group C.

FIBA