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Famous Volleyball Players from Ottawa

August 13, 2024

Ottawa, Canada’s charming capital city, is known for its historical landmarks, vibrant cultural scene, and passionate sports community. Among the many sports embraced by Ottawans, volleyball stands out for its growing popularity and the exceptional talent it has produced. This blog will spotlight some of the most famous volleyball players from Ottawa, celebrating their achievements and highlighting their impact on the sport. These athletes have not only excelled in their careers but have also inspired countless young players in the city and beyond.

Ben Saxton

Ben Saxton is a notable beach volleyball player who has represented Canada in multiple international tournaments. While originally from Calgary, Saxton’s ties to Ottawa through training and competitions make him a significant figure in the city’s volleyball community.

Career Highlights:

  • Olympic Participation: Saxton, along with his partner Chaim Schalk, represented Canada at the 2016 Rio Olympics, where they showcased their skills against some of the best teams in the world.
  • World Tour Success: Saxton has had numerous strong finishes on the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour, consistently ranking among the top teams.
  • National Team: A key member of the Canadian national team, Saxton has contributed significantly to Canada's presence in international beach volleyball.

Why He Inspires: Ben Saxton’s impressive career and dedication to the sport highlight his exceptional talent and work ethic. His achievements on the world stage inspire upcoming volleyball players to aim high and work hard.

Player Bio & More Information: https://volleyball.ca/en/athletes/ben-saxton 

Kristina May (née Valjas)

Kristina May (formerly known as Kristina Valjas) is another prominent beach volleyball player with deep ties to Ottawa. Known for her height and powerful play, May has made significant contributions to the sport.

Career Highlights:

  • Olympic Experience: May competed in the 2016 Rio Olympics, representing Canada in beach volleyball.
  • World Tour Performance: She has achieved multiple top finishes on the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour, earning recognition for her skills and competitive spirit.
  • National Championships: May has won several Canadian National Championships, showcasing her talent and dedication.

Why She Inspires: Kristina May’s achievements in beach volleyball highlight her determination and passion for the sport. Her success serves as an inspiration for young athletes, demonstrating that hard work and perseverance can lead to significant accomplishments.

Player Bio & More Information: https://olympic.ca/team-canada/kristina-valjas/ 

Dan Lewis

Dan Lewis is a highly respected indoor volleyball player and coach who has had a significant impact on the sport in Canada. Born and raised in Ottawa, Lewis has excelled both on the court and on the sidelines.

Career Highlights:

  • Professional Career: Lewis played professionally in Europe, where he was known for his defensive prowess and leadership.
  • National Team: He represented Canada in numerous international competitions, including the World Championships and the Pan American Games.
  • Coaching Success: After retiring from professional play, Lewis transitioned to coaching, where he has continued to influence the sport positively, working with the Canadian national team and various clubs.

Why He Inspires: Dan Lewis’s journey from player to coach illustrates the lifelong impact one can have on the sport. His leadership and dedication continue to inspire and develop the next generation of volleyball players in Canada.

Player Bio & More Information: https://volleyball.ca/en/news/coach-profile-dan-lewis 

Jamie Broder

Jamie Broder is a trailblazer in Canadian beach volleyball, hailing from Ottawa. Known for her exceptional defensive skills and strategic play, Broder has made a significant impact on the sport.

Career Highlights:

  • World Tour Success: Broder has achieved multiple podium finishes on the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour, including a historic gold medal in 2015, marking Canada’s first-ever gold on the tour.
  • Olympic Qualification: She competed in the 2016 Rio Olympics, representing Canada on the world stage.
  • National Championships: Broder has won several Canadian National Championships, solidifying her status as one of the top beach volleyball players in the country.

Why She Inspires: Jamie Broder’s groundbreaking achievements in beach volleyball highlight her talent and determination. Her success paves the way for future generations of Canadian beach volleyball players, demonstrating that hard work and perseverance can lead to historic milestones.

Player Bio & More Information: https://olympic.ca/team-canada/jamie-broder/ 

Nicholas Hoag

Nicholas Hoag is an outstanding indoor volleyball player from Gatineau, Quebec, but his impact extends to the Ottawa region due to his training and competitions. Known for his powerful spikes and versatile play, Hoag has become a key figure in Canadian volleyball.

Career Highlights:

  • National Team Star: Hoag has been a crucial member of the Canadian national team, competing in numerous international tournaments, including the Olympics.
  • Professional Success: He has played professionally in top European leagues, earning accolades for his performances.
  • Pan American Games: Hoag helped Canada secure a bronze medal at the 2015 Pan American Games.

Why He Inspires: Nicholas Hoag’s impressive career and contributions to the national team highlight his exceptional talent and dedication. His achievements inspire young athletes in the Ottawa region and beyond to pursue their volleyball dreams.

Player Bio & More Information: https://olympic.ca/team-canada/nick-hoag/ 

Conclusion

Ottawa has produced an impressive array of volleyball talent, from beach volleyball stars like Kristina May and Jamie Broder to indoor standouts like Dan Lewis and Nicholas Hoag. These athletes have not only achieved significant success in their careers but have also inspired countless young players. Their stories highlight the importance of dedication, hard work, and passion for the sport. Whether you’re an aspiring player or a fan of volleyball, the achievements of these famous volleyball players from Ottawa serve as a testament to what can be accomplished with perseverance and a love for the game.

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