The Humber Hawks women’s volleyball team made history, reaching their first-ever CCAA national finals and capping off an incredible season with a silver medal.
The Hawks faced the Lakeland Rustlers in the championship match on March 8 at Durham College in Oshawa, two undefeated vying for national glory.
After four hard-fought sets (20-25, 27-25, 16-25, 22-25), the Alberta squad emerged victorious, securing their third consecutive title. Humber’s performance proved they belong among Canada’s best volleyball programs.
Despite the loss, the silver medal marks a milestone for Humber. After 19 attempts and years of dedication, they finally broke through and reached the national final.
Head coach Chris Wilkins reflected on the team’s journey and what this historic achievement means for the program.
“This season has been incredible,” Wilkins said. “Making the national final for the first time and competing against the best team is something to be proud of.”
Wilkins highlighted the unity and determination that fuelled Humber’s success throughout the season.
“These girls fought for each other every step of the way,” he said. “We built a strong culture, and that’s what got us here.”
Star outside hitter Hannah Manners, who played a key role in Humber’s success, expressed her pride in what the team accomplished this season.
“This team is special,” Manners said. “We worked so hard for this moment. Even though it didn’t end how we wanted, we made history.”
She also acknowledged the support from Humber fans.
“Our fans have been amazing all season,” she said. “Their energy gave us that extra push when we needed it most. We couldn’t have done it without them.”
Kennedy Williscroft, another standout player, echoed similar sentiments about the team’s bond and the experience of competing at the highest level.
“This season has been unforgettable,” Williscroft said. “We built something special at Humber. Making history together is incredible. We left it all on the court.”
The silver medal represents a new era for Humber volleyball. Their journey to the final was filled with dominant performances, tough battles, and moments showcasing their resilience.
Humber has developed a reputation for relentless play, blending strong offence with solid defence. Their composure under pressure has been a defining factor in their success.
This season was a statement to the rest of the country, that Humber is here to stay as a top contender.
Looking ahead, Humber understands the challenges to come. Their historic season set a high standard, and they will continue building on this success in future years.
“This isn’t the end, it’s just the beginning,” Wilkins said. “We’ll be back, and we’ll be stronger than ever.”
With a national silver medal and a season to remember, the Humber Hawks have cemented their place among the best.
