The Women's Volleyball team has qualified for the playoffs for five consecutive seasons. This year, the Huskies look to continue the streak with a good mix of returning student-athletes and recruits.
They kick off their campaign at home on Friday, October 18th, against the Georgian Grizzlies. The action starts at 6pm in Alex Barbier Gymnasium.
Coach's Thought
Heading into this campaign, seventh-year head coach Daphne Choi believes this team is laying the foundation for the program's future success.
"The most important word that has defined my time here at George Brown has been culture. We've experienced success and challenge, and each time we've been able to better define what it means to be a part of this GBC culture," Choi explained. "This year, we are more committed more than ever to that culture. Our returning veterans have taken a strong leadership role and helped us to define what it means to be a Husky. With this never-before-seen level of enthusiasm and personal ownership of the team, I'm expecting a very positive and optimistic season that helps us solidify the foundation for the next couple of years. We will always have things to work on but we will always stick together as a team. Our number one value this year is, "we are a team, we move together as one."
Returning Players
Claire Ramos, Libero
In her first year as libero for the Huskies, Ramos quickly established herself as one of the top players in her position. She ranked third in the OCAA in total digs (251) and digs per set (3.75), an impressive feat for a first-year student-athlete. She was named to the East Division Second Team All-Star and East Division All-Rookie Team for her efforts. She was also honoured as Huskies Female Rookie of the Year and was nominated for Huskies Female Athlete of the Year.
Julia Gordon, Outside Hitter
Gordon made significant strides in her second season with the Huskies, setting career highs in every offensive and defensive category. She ranked in the top three on the team in points per set, total points, kills, and service aces per set. The Huskies will again rely on her leadership both on and off the court this season.
Kaarina Niemimaa, Outside Hitter
Similar to Gordon, Niemimaa's role grew significantly from her first to the second season.
She became a consistent offensive threat while also showcasing her defensive capabilities, finishing the season with averages of 2 points per set, 1.76 kills per set, and 1.67 digs per set. Expect her to take another big step forward this season.
Recruits
Mattea De Francesco
Chelsea Domingo
Jessie Wei
Tayanna Williams
"Our new recruits are young and excited to get in our gym, to learn how we do things, and to play a strong role. We are looking forward to a very strong bond developing between our vets and our recruits," the head coach stated. "We also will have some late joiners in the winter semester, and all these new recruits bring with them a new expectation - that they are all utility players and can contribute towards the team wherever they're placed. It's an exciting time for our young squad!"