For many years, children in St. Thomas have had a lot of choice in terms of participation in quality local sports programs. Volleyball, however, has never been an option outside of the school system. That changed in 2011 when Ken Gadsdon and Dennis Dlouhy started their chapter of the Ontario Volleyball Association’s SPIKES program. Since its inception, SPIKES St. Thomas has seen hundreds of children participate in the grassroots program, which has focused on teaching two things: Joy and Technique.
“Here, we grow again,” says Dlouhy with a smirk.
For its fifth anniversary, SPIKES St. Thomas will return with its Grade 1 – 8 Grassroots program for beginners. And it will be adding a Grade 6-8 House League for graduates of the Grassroots program who are seeking a bit more competition. Finally, for advanced girls in Grades 7 and 8, SPIKES St. Thomas has partnered with the Forest City Volleyball Club to offer St. Thomas’ first club level program.
“Children can now see a clear path from first touch to elite competition,” beams Dlouhy. “While we are striving to grow and offer different levels of play, we will always focus on two things: Joy and Technique.”
For information about becoming a coach, volunteer or player with SPIKES St. Thomas, please visit spikesstthomas.ca or call Dennis Dlouhy at 519-495-9179.
Tryouts for the club begin September 12.
Submitted by Spikes St. Thomas
