The Centennial Colts Women's Volleyball team is entering the 2024 season with a fresh wave of energy, determination, and passion. This Friday at 6:00 p.m., they will host their season opener against the Seneca Sting at the Athletic and Wellness Centre (AWC) on Progress Campus, marking the first step in what they hope will be a successful new direction.

Last season, the Colts experienced some highs and lows, ultimately finishing in 6th place and bowing out in the first round of playoffs against the Niagara Knights. However, with third-year Head Coach Andrew Mallory at the helm, the team is poised for a transformation. Mallory has been working diligently to bring a new dynamic to the squad, highlighted by the largest recruiting class in recent years, featuring standout players from some of Ontario's top volleyball clubs.

The season opener presents a formidable challenge, as the Colts will face the OCAA silver medallists, Seneca Sting. Over the past few seasons, the Sting have been perennial contenders for league supremacy, consistently coming close to capturing the gold medal. This season, they will be determined to finally claim the top spot, making every match, including this one, critical to their journey.

Despite the tough competition, the Colts appear ready to rise to the occasion. The new recruits bring an infusion of talent, and the team has shown resilience during the preseason. The key will be integrating the rookies into the lineup and building on the early promise shown in preseason games.

Colts captain Ava Hamilton, a second-year player stepping into the leadership role for the first time, expressed optimism about the team's development. "We're on the right track," Hamilton said. "There are things we need to work on for sure, but I'm really happy with how our team is progressing."

As the Colts embark on this new season with fresh faces and renewed goals, fans are encouraged to come out and show their support for the home team.

For those unable to attend the game in person, the match will be live-streamed on COLTSNET via YouTube. Don't miss the chance to catch all the action as the Colts kick off their season!

By: Pedro Casellatto