Home Openers Saturday 6 & 8 p.m. (Beer/Wine Gardens - $100 GC giveaway)

Cougar volleyball returns this weekend in full force as both the men and the women will suit up for their season openers on Friday, Oct. 29 in Medicine Hat.

The Cougar men had a strong regular season last year, but ultimately fell short in the ACAC championship tournament, finishing in fourth place. The Cougars have 17 ACAC championships under their belts, but haven’t won the title since the 2007-08 season.

Coach Shawn Sky will look to his first year players to contribute immediately, and expectations will be high for recruits Lucas Stepanko, Kyle Matthyssen, Travis Banks and Jordan Bright. 6’10” Stephen Jones is a big part of the Cougar’s future, and should make an impact this year.

The athletic duo of Colton deMan and Dan Durham will be at the forefront of the Cougar’s attack, and will be relied upon to set the tempo for the upcoming season.

Coach Shawn Sky knows that with so many new players, it will take time and patience for the Cougars to develop into a championship caliber squad.

“We are a work in progress. This team is one of the most intelligent I’ve coached and our work ethic is right where we need it,” said Sky.

The Cougar men will return home on Saturday Oct. 30 to play in their home opener. Game time is 8:00 p.m.

The Cougar women met a similar fate last season, putting together a 7-3 regular season record before coming up short in the ACAC championship tournament. The Cougars will look to get back on track this season, returning a core of seven veterans to match seven new recruits.

Team staple Diyon Van Nistelrooy will be returning for her fifth and final year of eligibility, and her experience and leadership will be a huge factor in the development of some of the new recruits this year.

Third-year powerhouse outside hitters Andrea Price and Breanna Estabrook will be relied upon heavily this season, and their outstanding athleticism and court presence will be vital to the teams’ success.

University of Calgary transfer Megan MacLean is an athletic, versatile player who is a key addition to the Cougar squad this season.

Coach Sandra Lamb will be focused on developing a strong team dynamic, and expects big things from her team this season.

The Cougar women will also return home Saturday to play their home opener. That game will begin at 6:00 p.m.

If you're  looking for a great way to kick off the ACAC season, join the Cougars volleyballl teams as they look to begin the season off with a pair of wins.

Adding to the night, Cougar Athletics will be giving away a $100 gift card during the evening, as well as hosting our beer and wine gardens on the track level. Admission is always free for students and staff, so come out and celebrate Halloween Saturday with some of the best volleyball around. Hope to see you there!