18U High Performance

Program Description

Athletes born on September 1, 2005 or younger

The 18U Girls High-Performance Program is designed for elite athletes who aspire to compete at the post-secondary level in USports or the CCAA. This program focuses on refining both individual and team skills, preparing athletes for the advanced technical, physical, and mental demands of university and college volleyball in Canada.

Athletes will engage in a rigorous training schedule with three on-court practices per week and mandatory strength and conditioning sessions twice a week. Each practice emphasizes the development of individual skills—such as serving, passing, attacking, blocking, and defense—while also honing advanced team strategies, communication, and cohesive gameplay. The goal is to build well-rounded players who can excel in their specific roles, while also contributing to the overall success of the team.

The program offers robust competitive opportunities, including participation in OVA-sanctioned tournaments, Ontario Championships, and select out-of-province events. Athletes will face high-level competition, enhancing their ability to perform under pressure and improving their game IQ. Competing against top teams from Southern Ontario and beyond provides valuable exposure to USports and CCAA coaches, helping athletes gain recognition in the recruiting process.

A key advantage of this program is access to Lakehead University Women’s Volleyball practices, where athletes can observe and learn from the intensity and discipline of post-secondary players. The team’s OVA ranking ensures they are placed in the appropriate division, fostering the right level of competition to match their development.

Beyond team performance, athletes receive personalized recruitment assistance, including video footage to showcase their skills to prospective coaches. Program Director, Coach Hayden Nichol provides mentorship throughout the recruiting process, offering guidance on navigating post-secondary opportunities and facilitating communication with university and college coaches.

This program is an ideal step for athletes seeking to elevate both their individual volleyball skills and team play, while opening doors to future university or college volleyball careers and beyond.

Tuesdays: 8:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. at Ecole Elsie Macgill Public School

Fridays:  6:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. at the former Port Arthur Collegiate Institute

Sundays: 8:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. at Port Arthur Collegiate Institute

 

Cost – $621.50 due upon registration.  Registration link provided in acceptance letter.  

A separate email was sent to players and parents/guardians which outlines additional tournament costs, membership fees, and clothing.

 

Coaches

Hayden Nichol (Program Director), John Curtis, Emma Korolenko