Photo courtesy of Douglife Athletics
Previewing the 2014/15 Douglas volleyball season
By Michael Sopow, Sports Reporter
Another year of Royals’ volleyball is just around the corner, and both the men’s and women’s teams are confident that they will leave a definitive mark in the upcoming season.
Last year the men’s team was a dominant force, taking home the gold medal at the PACWEST Provincial Championships and having a strong showing at Nationals. The standards are just as high for this season as the team has set its sights on a repeat showing at nationals and a CCAA (Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association) national championship.
“Our objective every year is to put ourselves in a position to compete for a National Championship,” said Brad Hudson, head coach of the men’s volleyball team. “The commitment to the process is what will ultimately determine whether or not we can be successful. We have to find a way to maximize both our individual and collective talents in order to earn the right to call ourselves champions.”
The men’s volleyball team at Douglas is not short of individual and collective talent, as proven by last year’s exemplary performance. This season there are some key players moving on from Douglas’ volleyball program, but the team will still be comprised of a steady mixture of veteran players who have the experience needed to lead, and newer players who possess drive, dedication, and a willingness to learn.
“Obviously we’d like to have guys play all five years here, but that’s simply not the case …” says Hudson. “We have guys in our gym who have been here before. They understand what it means to be a Royal and what it takes to find team success. It falls to them to assume the responsibility of both moving our program forward and maintaining an environment where their new teammates can learn, grow, and contribute.”
The other side of Douglas volleyball is of course the women’s team. Last season, the women’s volleyball team was composed of many talented, hard-working players who did the team justice on the court. This year, Douglas’ women’s team has reconstructed their roster with many new players.
“I have high expectations for this group …” says head coach Kyra Iannone. “We have a very competitive and supportive gym culture this year. I am hoping this will be the year we represent DC and BC at Nationals.”
This year’s women’s team is looking as though it’s brimming with potential and ready to dive into the season. The players appear motivated, confident in their abilities, and ready to embrace the upcoming year with passion. With everyone able to bring something to the team, the start of the season for Douglas’ women’s volleyball is looking bright.
