The PGYVC Kodiaks Red U16 Girls volleyball team is looking to repeat as provincial champions. Photo courtesy: Mark Lafleur
Kodiaks Volleyball

Kodiaks Volleyball seeks to repeat as provincial champs

May 3, 2024 | 4:39 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – The Prince George Kodiaks Red U16 Girls Volleyball team is looking to repeat as provincial champions, as the team is currently battling some of the province’s best teams in Abbotsford. While there are 75 girls teams, the Kodiaks are in Division 1 where they are competing against 16 other teams.

While the competition will be tough, the Kodiaks aren’t short on confidence, as the team has enjoyed tremendous success so far this season, highlighted by its win in a Best of the West tournament at the University of Calgary where it earned the top spot among 150 other teams.

“We’re doing exceptional for the size of our community. And I’ve been coaching many, many years, and never have I had a team that’s accomplished these achievements,” said Kodiaks Head Coach Mark Lafleur.

While Lafleur is the current U16 coach, he explained he’s been coaching the same group of girls for several years, as he’s been moving up the age categories with the group. While the success this season has been fantastic, he says he knew this team was capable of this accomplishments well before this season.

“I knew I had something special 3 or 4 years ago. I just didn’t know how special. And last year, when we won provincials, it was completely overwhelming and surprising. I keep telling parents and players on my team that this is not normal. These achievements aren’t normal, but they’re becoming normal. It’s just fantastic, it’s such a pleasure to spend time with these kids and their families,” he said.

The secret behind the team’s success? Lafleur says it comes down to team chemistry and good old fashioned hard work.

“They work together as a team. There’s no bickering within the team, there’s no selfishness. They support each other through success and failures, that’s what makes this team totally different. If you were to walk into the gym and look for a star athlete, like a six foot one, six foot two kid, you’re not going to get it. We’re a very small team in terms of physical size, but it’s their personalities, their value system, their work ethic, their dedication,” Lafleur said.

The Provincial Championships will take place all weekend, and later this month the Kodiaks plan to test themselves against the country’s best at Nationals.

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