Seven teams from Superior North Volleyball Club competed at the 2026 Ontario Volleyball Association Championships, taking part in Event 1 (April 16–18) and Event 3 (April 23–25) in Toronto at the Enercare Centre—one of the largest youth amateur sporting events in the province and a premier volleyball event in Canada. Across both events, the club delivered a historic showing, with six of seven teams returning home with medals, marking the strongest performance at provincials in program history and highlighting the continued growth of volleyball in Northwestern Ontario.
At Event 3 in Toronto, the 16U boys Voltage team, coached by John Curtis and Dan Mills, led the way for the club, capturing gold in Division 2, Tier 3 with a hard-fought three-set victory over PVC Muskoka Wild. Entering the tournament with a new coaching staff, the group faced the challenge of adapting quickly, building trust, and finding their rhythm under new leadership. “The Ontario Championships marked a defining moment for the team—one that began with uncertainty and transformation, and ended in triumph,” said Curtis. “What unfolded was a powerful testament to resilience, unity, and belief.” The team delivered a complete performance across all areas of the game, combining dynamic offense, a strong presence at the net, and relentless defensive play. Match after match, they grew more connected and confident, ultimately delivering their strongest performance in the final. For the athletes, the experience was just as meaningful as the result. “This year’s provincials were an amazing experience,” said Quinn Little Sobchuk. “We played the best we ever have and showed how much we had improved.” Teammate Wren Holmstrom added that the group’s resilience defined their run. “We never backed down, even in tough matches. By the time we reached the finals, we were ready—and winning gold in another three-set battle made it even more special.”
The 18U girls Lightning team, coached by Kim Fossum, Lauri-Ann Vester, and Kathryn Scofich, also claimed gold in Division 4, Tier 3 with a thrilling three-set win over Panthers Smash, capping off a season defined by growth and connection. “This year’s Ontario Championships experience was unbelievable,” said Fossum. “Bringing home a gold medal is amazing, but the biggest reward was seeing the athletes take in the entire experience—growing together, strengthening their bond, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.” She also emphasized the significance of the club’s overall success, noting that six medals from seven teams is a remarkable achievement for a program representing a northern community. “We haven’t just built a volleyball club—we’ve built a community,” she added. For the athletes, the moment was about more than the podium. “What made it so special wasn’t just winning—it was our team,” said libero Jordyn Simpson. “We got so close over the season, and it felt like we were playing for each other.” Outside hitter Avery Chaschuk echoed that sentiment, adding that the team’s trust and positivity carried them throughout the tournament and allowed them to perform with confidence when it mattered most.
The 18U girls High Performance Thunder team, coached by Emma Korolenko, Chase House, and Abby Viers, earned silver in Division 3, Tier 2 after a very close three-set final that ended 17–15. With this result, the team also finished the season ranked among the top 60 teams in Ontario, marking the highest provincial ranking in the club’s history. While the result was hard-fought, the experience reflected the team’s continued growth and competitive edge. “Provincials was a great experience,” said Korolenko. “Playing in the Enercare Centre is always a blast, and the girls rose to the energy of the tournament. We’re proud of how they compete, support one another, and represent their city and our high performance program.” That sense of connection and belief was echoed by the athletes. “The overall experience was awesome. Playing in such a big, loud environment pushed us, and we really thrived. We worked hard for each other in every match, and our connection showed in our success. I’m really proud of this team,” said left side hitter Jordan Glover. Teammate Mae Boban added, “We showed a lot of grit in tough moments. What makes our team special is how we connect on and off the court—we really jive well together, and that shows in how we perform.”
Another silver medal came from the 16U girls High Performance Surge team, coached by Morgan Davis, Matthew Clark, and Steve Shonosky, who battled through a demanding playoff schedule in Division 6, Tier 1. Facing three consecutive do-or-die matches late in the tournament, the group demonstrated resilience and determination, pushing their way into the gold medal match. “The team had to battle many challenges throughout the season, and provincials was another opportunity for them to show their ability to overcome obstacles,” said Davis. “The odds were stacked against them, but they never quit and surged their way into the final.” Players noted the level of effort and growth displayed throughout the weekend. “We played some of our best volleyball of the season,” said setter Ocean Ong. “You could really see how badly everyone wanted it, even when we were exhausted.” Outside hitter Devina Amisheva added that the team’s positivity and energy were key, saying the group supported one another through every moment and built strong connections along the way.
The 18U boys Storm team, coached by Scott Masters and Brock Bodnar, secured bronze in Division 2, Tier 3 with a straight-set victory over the T-West Golden Eagles, capping off a season marked by steady improvement and adaptability. “The boys had a tremendous finish to their season,” said Masters, noting their strong defensive play and ability to develop in multiple positions throughout the year. For the athletes, the experience of competing at provincials remained a highlight. “The competition is intense, and it’s always some of the best volleyball I’ve experienced,” said libero Julian Tonkens. Left side hitter Kylan Weber added that the atmosphere of the tournament makes it his favourite event of the year, bringing together top teams from across the province in a highly competitive environment.
The 16U girls Strikes team, coached by Julia Curtis and John Curtis, delivered a standout performance, earning a place in the Division 6, Tier 1 playoff pool and finishing ninth overall after entering the tournament ranked 32nd. Their ability to climb 23 spots in the rankings reflected both their growth and determination. “The team showed incredible resilience throughout the tournament,” said Curtis. “Each athlete stepped up in key moments, and their ability to stay connected and compete as a unit defined their success.” That progress was reflected by the athletes as well. “We made it to Tier 1 and jumped 23 spots in the rankings,” said Kailey Jewett. “Even though we didn’t win a medal, we made every team work for it. This season was full of great memories and friendships, and we know we gave it our all.” Teammate Sophie Venasky added, “We really came together and performed at a high level. Everyone worked hard, supported one another, and trusted each other every step of the way. We grew a lot as a team and built strong friendships throughout the season.”
Earlier in the month, the 14U girls Aurora team also delivered an impressive performance, capturing silver in Division 6, Tier 2 at Event 1 while also competing up an age group in the 15U division. Coached by Cayleigh Fossum, Lola Milohnic, Sylvie Lemoine, Alysha Goundrey and Lauryn Langley, the team showed strong growth and resilience throughout the tournament. “Our team’s experience at Ontario Championships was a true testament to the hard work these athletes have put in this season,” said Fossum, noting their development in both confidence and game awareness. That growth was evident on the court. “We didn’t know what to expect, but we came together and really clicked,” said outside hitter Avery Kydd. “Every player made a difference.” Setter Lee Roberts added, “It was amazing being part of such a big tournament. We learned so much and had so much fun competing together.”
Together, these results represent a defining moment for Superior North Volleyball Club. Across all age groups, teams demonstrated resilience, growth, and a deep commitment to one another, competing with confidence against a wide range of strong programs from across Ontario. From gold medal finishes to breakthrough performances and hard-fought playoff runs, the 2026 Ontario Championships will be remembered not only for the results, but for the way these athletes represented their club, their community, and the continued growth of volleyball in the North.
