As we step into 2025, it is a fitting moment to reflect on the performance of the Bisons’ volleyball teams during the past year.

The 2024 season for the Bisons men’s volleyball team was marked by fierce competition and significant learning opportunities. Finishing with a 4-6 record, the team demonstrated a .400 winning percentage, highlighting both their challenges and their potential for growth. With an average of 10.38 kills per set and a hitting percentage of .211, the Bisons showcased their offensive capabilities, though consistency remained an area for improvement.

Players who shined for the Bisons in offence are Spencer Grahame, who led the herd with a strong offensive output, racking up 90 kills at an average of 2.90 kills per set, demonstrating his pivotal role in the team’s scoring efforts. Karil Dadash Adeh also made significant contributions with 90 kills and a team-high 25 service aces, underscoring his proficiency from the service line and in front-line attacks. Their journey through the season was a testament to their resilience and determination to evolve and adapt under pressure.

Their defence was punctuated by an average of 1.94 blocks and 8.15 digs per set, demonstrating a robust defensive strategy that became a cornerstone of their gameplay. On defence, Jonah Dueck stood out with 42 total blocks, leading the team with a blocks per set average of 1.08, showcasing his defensive prowess at the net. Jordon Heppner added stability with 21 total blocks, consistently enhancing the team’s defensive framework.

Service also played a key role, with the team achieving 2.36 service aces per set, indicating a strong serve that often put opponents under pressure. Despite their away record, the Bisons proved they could compete with determination and grit, particularly highlighted in their home wins and competitive matches against top-tier teams. This grit was evident in the way they rallied in matches that went to five sets, showcasing their endurance and tactical intelligence.

Overall impact players included Kai Boyko, who was instrumental both offensively and defensively with 79 kills and 18 blocks, and Josh Jehle, who played a crucial role in backcourt defence with the highest digs per set of 1.87, pivotal in turning defence into offence.

The Bisons women’s volleyball team displayed a strong 2024 season with an impressive 6-4 overall record, boasting a .600 winning percentage. This performance was underscored by their offensive strength, as proven by their substantial 13.03 kills per set and a remarkable hitting percentage of .288. Players who shined for the Bisons in the women’s offence included Raya Surinx, with 123 kills and an average of 4.56 kills per set, and Andi Almonte, who added depth with 96 kills. Their strategic gameplay was further supported by 12.27 assists per set, facilitating dynamic and effective attacks. Key overall contributors were Katreena Bentley, orchestrating plays with 382 assists and contributing defensively with 92 digs, and Julia Arnold, who emerged as a defensive stalwart with 120 digs, crucial for initiating counterattacks.

Defensively, the women’s team maintained solid control with 1.55 blocks and an exceptional 13.32 digs per set, highlighting their ability to thwart opposing offences effectively. Defensive specialists were led by Eve Catojo, with 33 total blocks, and Brenna Bedosky, who excelled with the highest block per set average. The service game was also strong, with 1.86 aces per set contributing to their strategic advantage. The team’s better performance in away games underscored their adaptability and resilience in challenging environments. The team’s ability to execute complex plays and maintain composure under pressure contributed significantly to their successful season.

These statistics not only underline the teams’ performances in distinct areas but also highlight where each team can focus on improving. The teams are poised for future successes, building on the lessons learned and strengths harnessed during the challenging yet rewarding 2024 season. Looking ahead, both teams are expected to leverage their experiences from this season to refine their strategies and bolster their rosters, aiming for higher achievements and possibly championship runs in the coming years.

The Bisons men’s and women’s volleyball teams play against the Trinity Western Spartans on Friday, Jan. 10 at the Investors Group Athletic Centre. The women’s team plays at 6 p.m. CST and the men’s team plays at 7:45 p.m. CST.