The Nipissing Lakers Women’s Volleyball team at Nipissing University is gearing up to celebrate its 30th anniversary. The team has achieved remarkable success and consistency since its establishment in 1993, fostering a culture of excellence within the university’s athletic department.
To kick off the milestone season, the Lakers will be hosting a special home opener on Friday, November 17. Prior to the game against the Waterloo Warriors, the team will honor some of its alumni in a pre-game ceremony. The much-anticipated event is set to rekindle memories and forge connections between past and present players.
The Lakers program has gone through significant transformations over the years. It all began under the esteemed leadership of John Jeffries, affectionately known as Mr. Volleyball in North Bay. With nearly five decades of experience, Jeffries mentored athletes and coaches across the volleyball scene. His contributions were duly recognized when he was inducted into the Ontario Volleyball Associations Hall of Fame in 2022. Currently involved with ACE Volleyball in Cochrane, Alberta, he has left an indelible mark on the sport.
Jeffries took over as the head coach of the Canadore College Women’s programs from 1979 to 1981, earning the prestigious OCAA Coach of the Year award in the 1980-81 season. In 1993, he transitioned to Nipissing University, where the team competed in the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) until the start of the 2013-14 season.
According to current Head Coach Marc Larochelle, the transition from the OCAA to the Ontario University Athletics (OUA) conference was his most significant challenge during his tenure. In 2013-14, Ontario faced a significant loss of its top players to schools in the United States, leading to a competitive shift. Larochelle reflects on the obstacles they faced at the time but acknowledges the progress they have made since then.
The Lakers’ success in recruiting strong athletes to Nipissing can be attributed to the program’s reputation and the university’s emphasis on being a student-athlete. The intimate learning environment and the opportunity to develop relationships with professors and fellow students sets Nipissing apart. Coupled with the campus’s beautiful surroundings, the Lakers offer an ideal combination of academic and athletic excellence.
Co-Captain Kassandra Pavlic shares her positive experience at Nipissing, highlighting the warm and welcoming atmosphere among players and coaches. The close-knit community and personalized attention from professors were key factors in her decision to join the team. Pavlic, currently pursuing a Bachelor of Physical and Health Education, feels privileged to serve as co-captain, leading the team both on and off the court.
Also hailing from North Bay, Tammy Hinich (Gilson) was the first-ever captain of the Lakers Women’s Volleyball team. She reminisces about the adrenaline rush and camaraderie she experienced while playing the sport she loved with like-minded teammates. Choosing Nipissing meant staying local and being coached by the esteemed John Jeffries. As captain, Hinich embraced her role with confidence, recognized for her vocal leadership and ability to handle pressure.
Both Pavlic and Hinich have treasured memories from their time as Lakers. Pavlic fondly recalls the lifelong friendships she formed and the exhilaration of winning their first-ever Ontario University Athletics (OUA) playoff game in her first year. Hinich cherishes moments from road trips, late-night practices, and the thrill of victories, including a Silver medal in their first season and an impressive 18-0 record in their second season, resulting in a Gold medal in the OCAA.
Marc Larochelle assumed the role of head coach for the Lakers in 2005-2006, initially joining Nipissing University as a Sports Information Officer. Under his guidance, the program has continued to flourish, with the Lakers emerging as a formidable team in the OUA conference. As they gear up for another exciting season, the Lakers remain focused on building on their recent playoff appearances and moving closer to championship contention.
The upcoming 30th-anniversary celebration not only marks a significant milestone for the Lakers Women’s Volleyball program but also serves as a testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone involved over the years. The team’s success can be attributed to a strong foundation laid by John Jeffries, as well as the commitment of coaches, players, and the embracing community at Nipissing University.
As the Lakers embark on another promising season, they look forward to building on their legacy, continuing to attract exceptional talent, and making their mark in the world of university volleyball.
