By Noel Arnason
The Holland Hurricanes men’s volleyball team has high expectations this season, combining a strong recruiting class with the return of key veterans as it prepares to host the CCAA Men’s Volleyball National Championship.
Fifth-year Carson Gray and Tyler McBride return as key leaders for the Hurricanes, alongside Brett MacAusland. All three are among the top players at their positions in the conference and will be relied on to lead the team throughout the season.
McBride is also returning to his original position of libero after spending the past three seasons playing setter. Meanwhile, second-year players Zach Warren and Kieran Hamlin are looking to build on their rookie seasons after making significant strides over the offseason.
The Hurricanes have also added experience through two transfers. Kalan Billard joins the team after spending time with Lakeland and Loyalist. After dealing with two major injuries, Billard is looking to make an immediate impact with his strength and athleticism, and will be a strong presence on the court.
Third-year setter Jakob Curtis arrives from Fanshawe College and brings valuable experience to the position. His ability to distribute the ball and spread the offence will be an important part of Holland’s attack this season.
Several rookies have also stood out during the pre-season, including James Jessop, Tovey Rideout, Zachary Bolo, Itzael Gaudet and Jaysen Wetmore.
Jessop is pushing Curtis for the starting setter position, with his ball handling and poise making an early impression. Rideout has shown strong blocking ability at the net, while he and Wetmore have emerged as vocal leaders during practices.
Wetmore joins the Hurricanes after a gap year and earned his place on the team as a walk-on following a strong offseason and training camp.
Gaudet has impressed with his athleticism and ability to score from anywhere on the court, while Bolo is showing his versatility after transitioning from setter to training at both left side and opposite.
One of the biggest differences from last season is the team's depth and culture. With competition for playing time at nearly every position, the Hurricanes are looking to push one another in practice and continue developing throughout the season.
The team's commitment has also extended beyond scheduled practices, with players putting in extra work in the gym and spending the summer building their strength in the weight room.
With Holland set to host the CCAA Nationals, head coach Brett Butler knows they will need to be at their best by the end of the season. The team is focused on using every practice, match and tournament as preparation for the ACAA Championships and a run at nationals.
“As the hosts of nationals, we know we need to bring our best at the end of this season. But we aren’t satisfied with simply participating,” the coach said. “Every practice, team lift, film session, match and tournament is preparation for the ACAA Championships and ultimately the CCAA Nationals. We know the best teams from across the country will be on our doorstep. We will be ready for them.”
The Hurricanes’ season begins at home this weekend, with the team hosting the Dalhousie Rams on Oct. 31 and Nov.1.
140 Weymouth Street, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada C1A 4Z1
Tel: 1-800-446-5265 | Fax: 902-629-4239