It was a nail-biter, but the Cambrian College Golden Shield men’s volleyball team overtook the Centennial Colts to take home the bronze medal at the Ontario College Athletic Association championships.
It is the second year in a row that the Golden Shield claimed third place, a record for the program.
“This season was a roller coaster as the top teams in both divisions were relatively equal in strength,” says Tim Yu, Cambrian’s manager of athletics, in a press release. “To repeat as bronze medalists this year among these elite teams is an amazing feat. Coach Dale Beausoleil continues to lead our student-athletes down a path of success.”
In the bronze medal match, Cambrian lost the first set to Centennial before rebounding to win the second and third sets.
In the fourth set, Centennial went on a 6-1 point run to open a two-point lead over the Golden Shield. But the team rallied and completed the comeback to win the medal.
“Amidst a season riddled with injuries, our team showcased unparalleled resilience, culminating in yet another remarkable achievement: back-to-back OCAA bronze medals,” says head coach Dale Beausoleil. “Their journey through the playoffs was extraordinary, a testament to their unwavering determination and spirit. Despite falling short of the ultimate goal to reach the finals and seize victory, their performance was nothing short of inspiring. I couldn’t be prouder of their relentless effort and dedication.”
Several members of the Golden Shield earned individual awards at the championships.
Rookie Kyle Perreault was named the Cambrian Player of the Match thanks to his 10 kills and nine digs in the bronze-medal game. Kurtis Brisebois was presented with the OCAA Championship All-Star award for his stellar performance throughout the tournament.
He was also a member of last year’s bronze medal squad.
Adding to the weekend’s success, Sven Trodel was named a Canadian College Athletic Association (CCAA) All-Canadian for his performance, hard work, and leadership on and off the court.
He is only the second member of the Golden Shield to be named an All-Canadian. Trodel was also a member of last year’s bronze medal team, as well as Cambrian’s co-winner of Male Athlete of the Year.
“It’s great to see how far this program has come in only the last three years, and all thanks to coach Dale Beausoleil,” said Sven Trodel. “We would not have been able to win the bronze medal again if not for Dale and the entire coaching staff. I want to thank them for believing is us and believing in me. I am so honoured to be able to represent Cambrian and be named an All-Canadian.”
“This was an amazing feat, and we are so proud of the team,” said Mary-Liz Warwick, manager of Cambrian’s Student Life Centre. “Athletics is a big part of college life and a big draw for students and fans. Tim Yu and Dale Beausoleil have put together something very special and I’m excited to see what they do on the court next year.”
