École Gravelbourg School girls' volleyball team have recently won the Saskatchewan High Schools Athletic Association's (SHSAA) Sportsmanship Award.
The Provincial Volleyball Tournament that was held in Outlook, SK from Nov 15 and 16, 2024. The award is given to one team out of the tournament that shows sportsmanship through respect for opponents, officials, and the hosting school.
"I was surprised and super excited. This is the first time our school has won this award, and I was just really proud of us and how we did throughout the tournament," stated Madeleine Simonsen, Middle for the Gravelbourg School girls' volleyball team.
Gravelbourg would finish in Pool B with a 4-0 record. Then once in the playoffs, they would win their first game and then lose their next two for a fourth-place finish. Despite not taking home any hardware, the team kept their spirits up and remained respectful throughout the tournament.
"I think just making sure everyone was on the same page with good communication and that there's always positive reinforcement on and off the court. I think that really helped our team continue through provincials," said Setter and Captain of the Gravelbourg School girls' volleyball team, Simone Pinsonneault.
Simonsen will be back for next season as a graduating player and Pinsonneault is making her way east for postsecondary and continue her volleyball career with the Fanshawe Falcons. Head Coach, Dominique Simonson shared her appreciation for the players following this season.
"I was extremely proud because our girls showed such dedication all season, they helped each other out. I've never coached a team that was able to be so positive with each other throughout the whole season, even though frustration, through some tough losses, they still came out smiling and happy."
The École Gravelbourg School girls' volleyball team looks to get back to provincials next year with the same fight, spirit, and sportsmanship.