Excellence is achieved through dedication. The Lethbridge Volleyball Club (LVC) has given elite high school students from around Southern Alberta the chance to prove their dedication.

The Junior Kodiaks is a Lethbridge College sponsored program run through LVC, which offers students the chance to play at a top-tier level for their age.

“They get the opportunity to train beside the college team and we get to play a little with the college team,” said Warren Thompson, co-coach of the women’s squad.

College level training and experience gives the students the preparation and guidance needed for college level play.

“They get to see the speed of the game at the next level, which you don’t get when you are in a gym with only your age group,” said Thompson.

The students come from local high schools and communities such as Vulcan, Taber, Magrath and many other towns. The men’s squad is coached by Ian Bennett and the women’s by Warren Thompson and Chris Goruk.

The main goal for the program is to improve the skills of the students and give them the edge for advancement into college or university.

Madison Yanish is the youngest member of the Junior Kodiaks; she is only in grade ten. She says she loves to play and looks forward to continuing her training in the sport.

“It’s a really good learning experience and it is fun to be able to practice and compete with the high levels,” said Yanish.

The Junior Kodiaks first game is Jan. 25 and 26, in Calgary.