Canada’s head coach, Tuomas Sammelvuo, has announced the list of athletes for this year’s Volleyball Nations League!
Opposites: Christopher Byam, Matthew Neaves, Jordan Canham, Arthur Szwarc, Ryan Joseph Sclater
Middle Blockers: Pearson Eshenko, Danny Demyanenko, Lucas Van Berkel, Jordan Schnitzer, Jackson Howe, Fynnian Lionel McCarthy, Liam Kristjanson
Setters: Luke Herr, Derek Epp, Brett James Walsh, Jay Blankenau, Max Elgert
Liberos: Justin Lui, Zachary Hollands, Landon Currie
Outside hitters: Nicholas Hoag, Brodie Hofer, Logan House, Samuel Cooper, Jackson Young, Jesse Elser, Evan Falardeau, Eric Loeppky, Mathias Elser
A look back on the past:
In the past decade, the Canadian men’s national volleyball team has showcased their skills and determination in various international competitions, including the Volleyball Nations League (VNL), World Championships, and the Olympic Games. Let’s take a look at some of their noteworthy performances and achievements.
Starting with the Volleyball Nations League, Canada was one of the staple teams in the first renditions of the tournament. Finishing 7th, 8th and 9th set them up as a force to be reckoned with. The 2022 edition however was a not so successful one. Barely squeezing two wins against Bulgaria and Australia awarded them the second to last place.
In the Olympic Games, the Canadian men’s national volleyball team has been represented by a lot of talented players. The 2016 Olympic roster included veterans such as TJ Sanders, Gord Perrin, Steve Marshall, Nick Hoag, Jay Blankenau, Dan Jansen Van Doorn, Graham Vigrass, and Blair Bann The last two Olympic games however, ended in the same way for the Maple leaves – a 3:0 loss against Russia in the Quarterfinals.
As the Canadian men’s national volleyball team continues to compete in international events, it’s clear that they are striving for success and growth. With the VNL 2023 on the horizon, we can expect the Canadian team to continue building on their past experiences, refining their skills, and representing their country with pride on the world stage.
Players to look out for:
Jackson Howe is a talented volleyball player who has made a mark in the sport with his exceptional skills and achievements. Hailing from Canada, Howe has had a successful career playing as a middle-blocker for various teams. He showcased his prowess as a member of the university men’s volleyball team, earning recognition as a Canada West Second Team All-Star. Notably, Howe has also played for Stade Poitevin Poitiers in France. With his impressive hitting percentage and average kills per set, he has proven himself to be a formidable player on the court.
Timothy Maar has been one of the pillars for the Canadian National team for a while now. The outside hitter for Italian club Allianz Milano brings power and finesse to the game. His leadership and talent have made him a valuable asset on the court. Timothy Maar’s passion for the sport and his unwavering commitment to excellence make him a formidable force in the world of volleyball.
Nicholas Hoag has left an indelible mark on the sport with his exceptional talent and numerous achievements. As a member of the Canada men’s national volleyball team, he has represented his country in prestigious competitions like the Olympic Games and the NORCECA Men’s Volleyball Championship, where he clinched gold and silver medals. Hailing from a volleyball family, with his father also involved in coaching the national team, Hoag’s passion for the sport runs deep. Known for his skills as an outside hitter, his contributions have been instrumental in Canada’s success on the international stage.