Princess Margaret Mustangs Grade 9 volleyball team capped off an impressive debut season by capturing the Central Zone league in Kelowna.
The Mustangs proved there is more than one quality program in town compiling an impressive 31-3 record to win the league. They also went undefeated to win the playoff championships. Competing against Grade 9 and 10 junior competition, the Mustangs record was 68-15 in both tournament and league play.
The squad was led by the strong setting of Colton Van Camp and Cody Poitras. Combined with impressive power hitting from Spencer Kingzett, Tyrell Buckley and Kyle Kohlhauser, the Mustangs have tremendous potential for next year as Grade 10 juniors. Kohl Linder, Brett Lavingne and Keegan Hawley handled the middle block and attack positions. Ryan Potter played well at right side to put up big blocks. Gavin Pattman and Duncan Woods added depth with Jay Leaman passing balls at the libero position.
Mustangs coach John Buckley said this team reminds him of the past championship junior boys teams that captured five provincial championships and finished no lower than fourth over a 10-year consecutive span at provincials.
“This team had tremendous potential if they want to commit to the sport,” said Buckley. “They are all big and very athletic, with depth at all positions.”
Many players have been asked to tryout for the Okanagan zone team June 2 and 3 in Kelowna for the selection camp to go to the B.C. Sumer Games in Surrey in July.
“This will be a good indicator as to whether this group is serious to be a contender next year as Grade 10s in junior,” added Buckley.
By playing in the Central Zone, the Mustangs have opted out of competing for one of the two south zone valley berths.