The Olds College Broncos women’s volleyball coaching staff has been busy with recruitment as the program has seen quite a bit of turnover, including graduating leaders Shaelynne Roux and team captain Victoria Ringuette.
The coaching staff has signed 10 new recruits for this upcoming season to join seven returning players.
In part four of the introduction to the recruiting class, we introduce you to the final two recruits for the Broncos women’s volleyball team: Calgary’s Jenna Elmer, who is the daughter of Olds Broncos volleyball alumnus Dave Elmer, and Samantha Laboucan from Atikameg, in the Peace Country of Alberta.
Here’s what you need to know about these recruits:
Samantha Laboucan: right side, 5 - 8
Hometown: Atikameg, Alta.
High school: Mistassiniy High School
2017-18 club: Peace Region Volleyball Club
Academic program: open studies
When asked why she's excited to be a Bronco, Laboucan says, "I wouldn’t have it any other way than to start at Olds College for my first year of college volleyball. I cannot wait for what’s in store for this coming season.”
Head coach Ryan Marsden is impressed by Laboucan's ability.
“I’m excited to have Samantha join us this year," he says.
"When I first saw Samantha, she immediately stood out to me. She has a heavy, quick arm and a lot of confidence offensively.
"We are excited about her potential here at OC. She is left-handed, jumps well and hits hard. This is a lethal combination for an opposite hitter. This is a great opportunity for her, which she recognizes and is motivated to help in any way that she can.”
Jenna Elmer: right side/middle, 5 - 10
Hometown: Calgary
High school: Calgary Christian High School (CCHS)
2017-18 club: Ace Volleyball Club
Academic program: open studies
Achievements and accolades: Captain of CCHS team. MVP two years in a row at CCS Invitational volleyball tournament.
Elmer is looking forward to the season.
"I am very excited to continue playing volleyball, and to be able to play at Olds where my dad played for two years and was athlete of the year, makes it even more special," she says.
Marsden says Elmer brings a lot to the court.
“Jenna is a very versatile player who is skilled both in the middle and outside positions," he says. "She puts up a big block and also plays great defence.
"Her father was a graduate of the land agent program here at OC and was a part of the men’s volleyball team, so the Broncos volleyball tradition continues. We are so excited to have an alumnus's daughter come and represent us this upcoming season. ”
Jadon Frank is the game day events and promotions programmer for Olds College Broncos athletics.
