Paul Dionne has signed with the Lethbridge College Kodiaks men's volleyball team. (Photo: Kodiaks Athletics, Lethbridge College)

By Justin Goulet

Outside attacker Paul Dionne signs with Kodiaks men’s volleyball team

Jul 17, 2023 | 1:19 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The Lethbridge College Kodiaks men’s volleyball team has announced the addition of a former Mount Royal University (MRU) Cougar to its roster.

Fourth-year athlete Paul Dionne will suit up for the Kodiaks during the upcoming 2023-2024 season. Dionne previously competed in U-Sports with MRU in Calgary.

The 6’5” outside attacker is from Weyburn, Saskatchewan, and said he is excited for the opportunity to compete in the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC).

Dionne stated, “I really wanted to experience playing with a new school and the Kodiaks have the reputation of being a group that truly loves playing volleyball.”

He added, “I had a great experience at Mount Royal, and it was an incredible part of my life, but I wanted to push myself to another challenge and group of athletes.”

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Dionne believes his experience will help to guide younger teammates. Kodiaks head coach Greg Gibos said he expects Dionne’s leadership and volleyball skills will help the team improve on its 15-4 regular season record in the 2022-2023 year.

Gibos said, “When Paul [Dionne] came down to meet a few of the guys, I was blown away with his intensity, and genuine hunger to lead others in our program.”

He noted, “Paul has the physical capabilities to be one of the best players in our conference, and we are very excited to see how shapes our program, and volleyball in southern Alberta.”

Dionne added that he has many inspirations who have shaped his volleyball career, but wanted to credit his mother, saying, “I’m just so excited to make my mom proud of me. She has always been a rock in my life, and I’m hoping that she’s proud of the person I’ve become.”

He said, “I can’t wait to see her in the crowd of a packed Val [Matteotti Gymnasium], supporting the boys as we attempt to accomplish something special this season. I feel so lucky to be a part of this program, and I’m going to put myself in the best position to be successful this offseason.”

The Kodiaks will start pre-season play in September, with their home opener set for October 21 against the Ambrose Lions.

Read more local sports at Lethbridge News Now.

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