The Providence University College Pilots took home double championship wins in both men’s and women’s volleyball.
“We had a really strong group,” says men’s coach Jason Peters, “and it was clear to me from the first weeks of the season that we had the talent to win, so to follow through and accomplish the championship goal was very satisfying. It is never as easy as it looks.”
On the women’s side, coach Scott Masterson says that his players showed the character and determination to compete until the very end.
“It was very special for me,” says Masterson, adding that every one of his players stood out to him in some way. “Everyone brought something valuable to the team and I believe that is why we were able to be so successful this season.”
Shayna Staerk and LaRae Penner were top attackers all season, and setter Sam Bridle was recognized as the top setter in the Manitoba Colleges Athletic Conference (MCAC).
A number of players stood out on the men’s team, including Erik Wiebe, who was named MCAC MVP for the season. Peters says that Wiebe has the ability to play at a high level at multiple positions. Wiebe was a league leader in many categories.
In addition, Sam Toews was named finals MVP and Hans Fehr was selected as player of the game in the championship final.
This was Peters' last season as coach, a position he’s held for 13 years. “I am going to miss so much coaching the team. I love being in the gym, watching film, and helping players find ways to improve both on and off the court. I will always miss the thrill of competition.”
Peters is proud of the young men he has had the opportunity to work with over the past decade, many who have turned into husbands, fathers, and community leaders.
“I will miss it tremendously but am excited to move to the next chapter in my life and spend more time with my young family,” Peters says. “I feel blessed for the time that I have had there and am excited to see where Scott Masterson is able to take the program in the future.”
Masterson will take over Peters’ role next year, with Kyle Guenther assuming the reins as coach of the women’s team.
