With medals around their necks, smiles across their faces, and hearts still pounding, Smithville (Ont.) Christian High School’s senior boys’ volleyball team proudly posed for a picture with their championship banner Nov. 23.
Competing at the Ontario Federation of School Athletic Associations’ (OFSAA) Boys’ A championships in Chatham, Ont., they took home gold. The final game was against French-language school École Secondaire Publique Louis-Riel, with set scores of 25-22; 25-22; and 25-21.
Gina VandenDool, a member of Jubilee Fellowship Christian Reformed Church in St. Catherines, Ont., is a teacher and staff sponsor for the team. “We set targets at the beginning of the year. We knew we had a mountain to climb, and we achieved it. We could hardly believe it. It was a magic team who had deep talent, a commitment to the game, and deep friendships that allowed them to journey together,” she said.
After 50 games, almost 5,000 points, and 11 weeks, the senior boys’ team finished the season with a total of 40 wins, 3 losses, and 7 splits. The junior boys’ team had a triumphant season as well: they were the Zone 4 champions this year.
This is Smithville’s second time earning gold for boys’ volleyball at OFSAA. The first was in 2013. Adam VandenDool, a player on the team in 2013, was one of the coaches this year, along with head coach Tim Devries, Rob Greenham, and manager Patrick Ghaly.
A number of other Christian schools did well in the tournament: Brampton Christian Academy earned bronze; Toronto District Christian High won antique bronze; and players from Woodland Christian High School were consolation champions.
About the Author
Kristen Parker is a freelance writer. She has a passion for words and creativity. Kristen and her husband Chris, enjoy board games and thrift shopping. They attend Stratford CRC in Stratford, Ont.
