Volleyball players in Weyburn recently had the opportunity to hone their skills and learn new techniques before the school year hits.
The camp catered to students from grades 8 through 12, offering girls and boys a chance to learn from high-performance athletes.
Cassidy Klapak, one of the organizers and a fourth-year setter for the University of Regina women's volleyball team, shared her excitement about the camp's impact.
"I've been running camps in Lanigan for a bit, and when they reached out to another coach who couldn't make it, she gave them my name," Klapak explained. "I was really excited to come here and see how the sport is growing in Saskatchewan."
Klapak expressed her enthusiasm for working with young athletes and fostering the development of volleyball skills at a grassroots level.
"It's just great to show the growth of volleyball in Saskatchewan and to provide new skills and ideas that can help increase volleyball in small towns."
Klapak says the number of students who came out for the camp was unbelievable, noting that the gym felt electric.
"The energy in the gym has been awesome. It's so exciting to see other athletes excited about volleyball and wanting to grow. I'd love to come back anytime."
Among the campers was Aunna Anderson, an incoming ninth-grader who has played volleyball for three years. Anderson noted that it is tough to choose a single favourite part; however, a few things stood out.
"I really like the queen courts game, and we do lots of hitting and passing."
Anderson also underscored the importance of having experienced players like Klapak in Weyburn.
"My little brother came to the camp and discovered he likes volleyball too. I think it's important for kids to get more involved because they don't always realize how fun it can be."