Season: 2024/25

2024/25

Tori H.

Tori is a Practice Coach for the 15U Girls Synergy Team, with an extensive background in volleyball!

Tori’s journey in volleyball began at the age of 12 when she joined Brant Youth Volleyball Club, immersing herself in competitive indoor volleyball until 2018. Her love for the sport extended to beach volleyball, where she began playing in 2014.

Drawing from her wealth of experience, Tori transitioned into supporting the developmental programs while actively engaging in competitive play for a number of years. Just this past summer, Tori also began coaching in the competitive beach volleyball program for Brant.

A true hometown connection, Tori spent her entire volleyball career at BYVC. Now, she is driven by the desire to give back to the community that played a pivotal role in shaping her athletic journey.

One standout memory for Tori is representing Brantford & Brant County in Alkmaar, Netherlands for the 2015 International Childrens Games (ICGs). Being part of the first ever ICG beach volleyball competition, and making it to the medal round, left an indelible mark on her volleyball legacy.

What Tori treasures most about volleyball is the social aspect. Whether meeting new friends, enjoying moments with the kiddos, or witnessing their eagerness to learn and grow into skilled players, the camaraderie is at the heart of her passion.

Tori’s coaching philosophy is crystal clear — while learning skills and competing in tournaments are essential components, fun must always take precedence. For Tori, ensuring a joyful and enjoyable experience is the key to maximizing the impact of volleyball in the lives of her players.

Zac C.

Zac is currently the Head Coach of the 16U Apocalypse Boys Team at BYVC.

His personal connection to volleyball stems from his five-year tenure as a player at North Park Collegiate, culminating in two appearances at CWOSSA.

Zac was also part of the inaugural International Children’s Games (ICGs) beach volleyball competition in Alkmaar, Netherlands, in 2015, representing Brantford & Brant County.

Transitioning seamlessly to the coaching realm, Zac spent an impressive seven years coaching Pauline Johnson Collegiate teams, earning multiple finals appearances and two more trips to CWOSSA.

His many years coaching at the high school level speaks to his commitment to nurturing the next generation of volleyball talent, sharing his knowledge and passion with young athletes.

While not coaching, Zac also enjoys playing Intramural Volleyball at the University of Guelph.

Aimee E.

Aimee is an Assistant Coach for the 16U Girls Aftershock Team. She has been a high school physical education teacher and coach with the Grand Erie District School Board for 24 years and has been coaching with BYVC since 2023.

Aimee played high school volleyball for the Riverside Rebels and has played volleyball for life as an intramural player at UWO and in the Branlyn adult volleyball league.

She has coached several Paris District High School girls’ volleyball teams to county championships over the years and after a ten-year hiatus from coaching volleyball is excited to be back coaching again!

Aimee’s philosophy is to be the best player and teammate you can be! She’s looking forward to a fun season with a fantastic group of girls!

16U Boys – Apocalypse

Head Coach Zac C.

Zac is currently the Head Coach of the 16U Apocalypse Boys Team at BYVC.

His personal connection to volleyball stems from his five-year tenure as a player at North Park Collegiate, culminating in two appearances at CWOSSA.

Zac was also part of the inaugural International Children’s Games (ICGs) beach volleyball competition in Alkmaar, Netherlands, in 2015, representing Brantford & Brant County.

Transitioning seamlessly to the coaching realm, Zac spent an impressive seven years coaching Pauline Johnson Collegiate teams, earning multiple finals appearances and two more trips to CWOSSA.

His many years coaching at the high school level speaks to his commitment to nurturing the next generation of volleyball talent, sharing his knowledge and passion with young athletes.

While not coaching, Zac also enjoys playing Intramural Volleyball at the University of Guelph.

Assistant Coach Aleesha F.

Aleesha is an Assistant Coach with the 16U Apocalypse Boys Team.

Aleesha has a strong background in volleyball, having played at multiple levels. She competed in intramural volleyball during her time at Guelph University, building on her experience from playing at both the high school and club levels.

Her passion for the sport has been a constant throughout her athletic journey, and she continues to stay involved in the volleyball community.

Assistant Coach Alex C.

Alex is an Assistant Coach with the 16U Apocalypse Boys Team.

16U Girls – Aftershock

Head Coach Wayne W.

Wayne is the Head Coach of the 16U Aftershock Girls Team.

Wayne brings a wealth of expertise to the Club. He is a distinguished volleyball coach with a tenure of 27 seasons as the head coach of the Humber Hawks men’s volleyball team. Under his leadership, the team has achieved significant success, including capturing the 2012 CCAA National Championship and securing multiple provincial titles.

Wayne has been honored as the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) Men’s Volleyball Coach of the Year twice, in 2005 and 2020, and in February 2023, he celebrated his 400th career win, becoming the second coach in Humber’s history to reach this milestone.

To see all the detail, click here: Wayne Wilkins – Head Coach – Humber College (humberhawks.ca)

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Assistant Coach Aimee E.

Aimee is an Assistant Coach for the 16U Girls Aftershock Team. She has been a high school physical education teacher and coach with the Grand Erie District School Board for 24 years and has been coaching with BYVC since 2023.

Aimee played high school volleyball for the Riverside Rebels and has played volleyball for life as an intramural player at UWO and in the Branlyn adult volleyball league.

She has coached several Paris District High School girls’ volleyball teams to county championships over the years and after a ten-year hiatus from coaching volleyball is excited to be back coaching again!

Aimee’s philosophy is to be the best player and teammate you can be! She’s looking forward to a fun season with a fantastic group of girls!

Assistant Coach Bryan W.

Bryan, currently the Assistant Coach with U-16 Girls Aftershock, brings with him a rich volleyball background.

Bryan’s volleyball journey includes playing varsity volleyball for Niagara College. For Bryan, beach volleyball has always been a passion. He honed his skills, playing out of his home courts at Sauble Beach and actively participated in the junior beach volleyball circuit.

A heartfelt connection to the sport was rekindled through his daughter, whose love for volleyball brought Bryan back to the game, this time in a coaching capacity.

Bryan’s coaching philosophy is succinct yet impactful: “Push yourself today to be the athlete you want to be tomorrow, mentally and physically.”

In essence, Bryan’s journey encompasses a love for the game, a commitment to player development, and a family-driven connection, making him a valued presence within the BYVC community.

Assistant Coach Kyla W.

Kyla is an Assistant Coach with the 16U Aftershock Girls Team.

Kyla made her mark as a standout player for Humber College, and the daughter of esteemed Humber College men’s volleyball coach Wayne Wilkins.

She contributed to the team’s dominance as OCAA West Division and OCAA Champions for four consecutive seasons from 2014 to 2018.

Individually, she has been recognized as an OCAA Academic All-Star and a First Team All-Star in 2017/18. With a CCAA Bronze Medal already to her name, Kyla is pursuing her career goal of playing professional volleyball, continuing the family legacy of excellence in the sport.

For more information, click here: Kyla Wilkins – Humber College (humberhawks.ca)

16U Girls – Tornadoes

Head Coach Jon A.

Jon is a passionate and experienced coach, who has been making a positive impact on young athletes for over a decade. Starting as an assistant coach in 2012, he has since gained valuable experience as a head coach for several high school teams from 2013 to 2016.

Currently, he is serving as the Head Coach for BYVC U16 Girls Tornadoes Team. With a Level 1 coaching certification, Jon is dedicated to helping young athletes achieve their full potential both on and off the court.

For Jon, the best part of coaching is witnessing “lightbulb moments” in the players, when they finally understand a concept or technique that propels their game to another level. He believes that these moments can happen multiple times throughout a player’s career, further enhancing their love of the sport.

Jon’s ultimate goal as a coach is to inspire and guide young athletes to become the best versions of themselves, both as players and as individuals.

Assistant Coach Khaled Q.

Khaled is an Assistant Coach for the 16U Tornadoes Girls Team.

Assistant Coach Skylar T.

Skylar is an Assistant Coach with this year’s U16 Tornadoes Girls Team. She has played rep volleyball since 13U and joined BYVC as a rep player in 17U and 18U when she moved to Brantford. One of her most memorable experiences as a BYVC rep player was winning gold at OVA provincials.

Skylar works as a tax accountant and serves as the treasurer for the Lansdowne Children’s Centre Foundation.

In 2023, Skylar became engaged and the 15U team that she was coaching were losing in the semi-finals 19-24. She told them if they won the tournament they could come to her wedding. They came back to win the game and ended up winning the tournament! Skylar said it was so special seeing all the girls at her wedding in October!!!!

 

15U Girls – Riptide

Head Coach Beverly J.

Beverly is the Head Coach of the 15U Riptide Girls Team.

Beverly is a volleyball enthusiast with a rich history in the sport. From her high school days to university intramurals and adult co-ed recreational leagues, volleyball has been a constant source of joy and camaraderie in her life.

Her involvement with BYVC is driven by a deep-seated desire to provide young individuals with the chance to embrace competitive volleyball and nurture their skills while fostering a genuine love for the game. Beverly’s fondest memories of the sport are not just about winning games but the lasting friendships she’s forged on the court.

Beverly’s coaching philosophy can be summed up in a simple yet profound principle: ‘Do what makes you happy.’ With her passion for volleyball and a commitment to helping young players find their own joy in the game, she is a dedicated advocate for the sport and personal fulfillment.

Assistant Coach Derek R.

Derek is an Assistant Coach with the 15 Riptide Girls Team. This is Derek’s first year coaching for the club. 

Derek’s experience with volleyball has mainly been playing on teams through high school, and various men’s and co-ed leagues since. He decided to start coaching with BYVC since his daughter joined the club last year and fell in love with the sport as well. Derek thought this would be a great way to stay involved and give back to the community.

Derek’s philosophy in sport and life is to give your all in everything that you do, set goals to improve daily as individuals and most importantly as a team.

15U Girls – Synergy

Co-Founder Sandy B.

Sandy is the Head Coach of the 15U Synergy Girls Team, and the TLS Explosion Girls Team.

She is a dedicated and experienced volleyball coach who has spent the past 27 years dedicating her time and skills to coaching athletes of all levels. As a co-founder of BYVC with her husband Rick, she has a deep passion for the sport and has used her expertise to guide young athletes in their pursuit of excellence.

With a wealth of experience coaching competitive age groups, ranging from 13U to 18U girls and boys, Sandy has established herself as a knowledgeable and skilled coach. In addition to her club-level coaching, she has also volunteered her time to coach high school teams and served as an assistant coach on regional teams for the Ontario Volleyball Association (OVA).

Sandy’s coaching philosophy centers around encouraging her athletes and teams to be their best by fostering a positive, organized, and fun environment that is skill-driven. She wants to instill confidence in her athletes and believes that this can be achieved by encouraging them to believe in themselves. Her commitment to the development of her athletes has been recognized, as she was named Female Development Coach of the Year by the OVA in 2002 and received the OVA Dianne Wood Special Achievement award in 2019.

In addition to her coaching accomplishments, Sandy has also had the privilege of coaching teams representing Brantford in the International Children Games in Canada, USA, South Korea, Thailand, Taiwan, Amsterdam, Scotland, and Greece. With her extensive experience and passion for the sport, Sandy continues to make a positive impact on the lives of the athletes she coaches.

In June of 2023, Sandy was one of only three people from across Ontario to be inducted into the OVA’s Hall of Fame in the Builder Category for her work over her 25-year career at the local elementary and high school level, the OVA regional competitive program and the International Children’s Games!!!

Co-Founder Richard B.

Rick is one of the co-founders of BYVC, along with his wife Sandy. He also supports both the 15U Synergy Girls Team and the TLS Explosion Girls Team.

He’s been coaching for over 40 years! His coaching experience includes youth soccer and girl’s fastball, but his primary focus is on volleyball, where he has achieved various NCCP Volleyball certifications including Certified Development Coach, Trained Advanced Development Coach (indoor and beach), and Trained Performance Coach (indoor).

Rick has been involved with the Ontario Volleyball Association (OVA) for many years, serving as the Assistant Coach for Region 3 Female Volleyball in 2002 and Region 3 Treasurer for six years. He has been recognized for his contributions to the sport with the OVA Recognition Award in 2013 and the OVA Achievement Award in 2019.

Rick’s coaching philosophy is centered on John Wooden’s Pyramid of Success, which, to paraphrase, is to prepare yourself to the best of your ability to play your best when your best is needed.  He’s OK with losing as long as the team has played their best.

He believes that mistakes are a natural part of athlete development and encourages his athletes to learn from them and not repeat them.

When coaching, Rick aims to teach his athletes not only HOW to perform a skill but also WHY they are doing it that way. He values engagement, focus, and critical thinking in his athletes and aims to create a positive and supportive learning environment.

Assistant Coach Mckenna S.

Mckenna is an Assistant Coach for the 15U Synergy Girls Team and has been coaching since 2021, with 3 years of experience and additional involvement in the BYVC Little Diggers program.

McKenna began playing Club volleyball when she was 12 years old and played throughout high school.

She started coaching because of her love for volleyball and her desire to continue being involved in the sport after her playing days were over.

One of McKenna’s favorite memories as a coach was seeing the happiness of her team after winning their first gold medal.”

Assistant Coach Nicole S.

Nicole is an Assistant Coach with the 15U Synergy Girls Team, having worked with BYVC’s U14 team for the past three seasons. She has also contributed to the club as a coach for the U13 team and the Little Diggers program.

Nicole is dedicated to helping players develop their skills and improve their confidence on the court. She began coaching because she missed playing volleyball and wanted to continue her involvement with the sport, having previously played with BYVC for 3 years and throughout high school.

Practice Coach Tori H.

Tori is a Practice Coach for the 15U Girls Synergy Team, with an extensive background in volleyball!

Tori’s journey in volleyball began at the age of 12 when she joined Brant Youth Volleyball Club, immersing herself in competitive indoor volleyball until 2018. Her love for the sport extended to beach volleyball, where she began playing in 2014.

Drawing from her wealth of experience, Tori transitioned into supporting the developmental programs while actively engaging in competitive play for a number of years. Just this past summer, Tori also began coaching in the competitive beach volleyball program for Brant.

A true hometown connection, Tori spent her entire volleyball career at BYVC. Now, she is driven by the desire to give back to the community that played a pivotal role in shaping her athletic journey.

One standout memory for Tori is representing Brantford & Brant County in Alkmaar, Netherlands for the 2015 International Childrens Games (ICGs). Being part of the first ever ICG beach volleyball competition, and making it to the medal round, left an indelible mark on her volleyball legacy.

What Tori treasures most about volleyball is the social aspect. Whether meeting new friends, enjoying moments with the kiddos, or witnessing their eagerness to learn and grow into skilled players, the camaraderie is at the heart of her passion.

Tori’s coaching philosophy is crystal clear — while learning skills and competing in tournaments are essential components, fun must always take precedence. For Tori, ensuring a joyful and enjoyable experience is the key to maximizing the impact of volleyball in the lives of her players.

TLS Girls – Storm

Head Coach Lynnsay M.

Lynnsay is the Head Coach for the TLS Storm Girls Team.

Lynnsay is a seasoned volleyball player with 35 years of experience, beginning in middle school and extending through to college varsity play.

Her passion for the sport has translated into a coaching career, where she has guided Grade 7 and 8 girls’, boys’, and co-ed volleyball teams in North Bay, Ontario.

With a degree in Recreation and Leisure Services, Lynnsay brings a wealth of knowledge and a strong commitment to youth development, helping young athletes build their skills and love for the game.

Assistant Coach Dana L.

Dana is an Assistant Coach with the TLS Storm Girls Team.

TLS Girls – Explosion

Co-Founder Sandy B.

Sandy is the Head Coach of the 15U Synergy Girls Team, and the TLS Explosion Girls Team.

She is a dedicated and experienced volleyball coach who has spent the past 27 years dedicating her time and skills to coaching athletes of all levels. As a co-founder of BYVC with her husband Rick, she has a deep passion for the sport and has used her expertise to guide young athletes in their pursuit of excellence.

With a wealth of experience coaching competitive age groups, ranging from 13U to 18U girls and boys, Sandy has established herself as a knowledgeable and skilled coach. In addition to her club-level coaching, she has also volunteered her time to coach high school teams and served as an assistant coach on regional teams for the Ontario Volleyball Association (OVA).

Sandy’s coaching philosophy centers around encouraging her athletes and teams to be their best by fostering a positive, organized, and fun environment that is skill-driven. She wants to instill confidence in her athletes and believes that this can be achieved by encouraging them to believe in themselves. Her commitment to the development of her athletes has been recognized, as she was named Female Development Coach of the Year by the OVA in 2002 and received the OVA Dianne Wood Special Achievement award in 2019.

In addition to her coaching accomplishments, Sandy has also had the privilege of coaching teams representing Brantford in the International Children Games in Canada, USA, South Korea, Thailand, Taiwan, Amsterdam, Scotland, and Greece. With her extensive experience and passion for the sport, Sandy continues to make a positive impact on the lives of the athletes she coaches.

In June of 2023, Sandy was one of only three people from across Ontario to be inducted into the OVA’s Hall of Fame in the Builder Category for her work over her 25-year career at the local elementary and high school level, the OVA regional competitive program and the International Children’s Games!!!

Assistant Coach Amma N.

Amma is an Assistant Coach with the TLS Explosion Girls Team.

Amma’s journey in volleyball began at the age of 12 when she joined Brant Youth Volleyball Club, immersing herself in competitive indoor volleyball, as well as playing volleyball throughout High School. Amma also began coaching in the competitive beach volleyball program for Brant for the past few seasons.

Assistant Coach Josee R.

Josee is an Assistant Coach with the TLS Explosion Girls Team.

Josee has been an Elementary School Teacher since 2004, dedicating her career to shaping young minds. She has also taken on the role of coaching grade 7 and 8 boys’ and girls’ teams at her school for an extended period, with her students winning a few championships in the Brantford region over that time.

Josee’s own journey in volleyball began in elementary school and continued through high school, fostering a deep love for the sport. She enjoys coaching because she can instill new skills and a genuine passion for the game in young athletes.

What Josee values most is the positive connections she forms with her players and the emphasis on having fun.

Co-Founder Richard B.

Rick is one of the co-founders of BYVC, along with his wife Sandy. He also supports both the 15U Synergy Girls Team and the TLS Explosion Girls Team.

He’s been coaching for over 40 years! His coaching experience includes youth soccer and girl’s fastball, but his primary focus is on volleyball, where he has achieved various NCCP Volleyball certifications including Certified Development Coach, Trained Advanced Development Coach (indoor and beach), and Trained Performance Coach (indoor).

Rick has been involved with the Ontario Volleyball Association (OVA) for many years, serving as the Assistant Coach for Region 3 Female Volleyball in 2002 and Region 3 Treasurer for six years. He has been recognized for his contributions to the sport with the OVA Recognition Award in 2013 and the OVA Achievement Award in 2019.

Rick’s coaching philosophy is centered on John Wooden’s Pyramid of Success, which, to paraphrase, is to prepare yourself to the best of your ability to play your best when your best is needed.  He’s OK with losing as long as the team has played their best.

He believes that mistakes are a natural part of athlete development and encourages his athletes to learn from them and not repeat them.

When coaching, Rick aims to teach his athletes not only HOW to perform a skill but also WHY they are doing it that way. He values engagement, focus, and critical thinking in his athletes and aims to create a positive and supportive learning environment.