Canadore College's Alice Champion named Coach of the Year
Alice Champion says she is extremely honoured to be named Coach of the Year, coming in as a rookie coach in the OCAA East Division.
“It’s an absolute privilege to be part of the Panthers’ women's volleyball program and, needless to say, this award wouldn’t be possible without the hard work and commitment of my team, my rockstar coaching staff, and Canadore’s community,” said Champion. “The Panthers' welcoming reception upon my arrival set the stage for a great first season.”
Born in Rio de Janeiro, Champion has played professional volleyball in Brazil, the United States, and Canada. She played at some of the highest levels of volleyball throughout her young adult years, from clubs like Bradesco in Brazil and the National Collegiate Athletic Association in the U.S.
“My experience as a player and a coach allows me to benefit the team with practical knowledge, strategies, and an understanding of the dynamics that players face on and off the court, all of which help me offer effective support and guidance to the team,” she said.
In my first year of coaching at Canadore, there have been many memorable moments,” Champion said. “Some of the highlights include experiencing how far the team has grown and improved throughout the season, how much we connected as a team on our first bonding trip and seeing the passion and dedication of these girls every day.”
The Panthers improved their win total from last season to 13-5, rebounding from a tough 1-3 start to win 12 of their 14 matches, finishing fourth in the division and clinching a home playoff berth. They suffered a 3-2 loss to the Conestoga Condors in the qualifying game.
Five members of the Panthers earned OCAA hardware.
OCAA Women's Volleyball East Division First-Team All-Stars
Domenica DeFrancesco
OCAA Women's Volleyball East Division Second-Team All-Stars
Brooke Allerston
Carlie Pappano
OCAA Women's Volleyball East Division All-Rookie Team
Kira Fahrbach
Charlotte Randall
On the men’s side, the Canadore Panthers men’s volleyball team finished the regular season at 15-3, losing the qualifying game in a 3-1 loss against the Fanshawe Falcons to end their season.
Panther athlete Liam Callaghan was awarded the OCAA Men's Volleyball East Division All-Rookie Team.
His ability to take over matches for the Panthers was second to none, and he displayed his overall ability throughout the season. The first-year outside hitter was a force offensively, with 84 total kills, 13 service aces, 75 digs, and 15 blocks for a total of 112. This marks the second straight year the men's program has had a player earn All-Rookie in their first season.
Cindy Males, Public Relations and Communications Specialist
