Mia Molnar brings gold home to Cranbrook – Club is turning heads

The East Kootenay Volleyball Club’s (EKVC) Mia Molnar is celebrating a gold medal Canada Cup victory. It’s the first time it’s been won by Team B.C. since 2016.

The tournament was held in Calgary, Alberta, where Team B.C. (pictured above) rose to the top of their pool after facing opponents from Alberta, Quebec, and P.E.I. Team B.C. defeated Newfoundland in the quarter-finals and Alberta Blue in the semi-finals, earning their spot in the finals against Team Alberta Black. The final match was decided in 5 sets, with Team B.C. securing the victory 15-8.

The EKVC is proud to announce that one of its athletes, Mia Molnar, played a pivotal role in this historic win. Mia’s exceptional performance throughout the tournament, especially in the intense final match, highlighted the strength and potential of athletes coming from smaller communities and clubs like EKVC.

“My overall experience being someone from the Kootenays was really fun. It was so amazing meeting all these new people that I’ve never met or sometimes even seen before and getting to play together with them. It was such a unique experience to show them my abilities coming from such a small town from a club they didn’t really know in B.C. The coaching staff was great too and all of the girls on our team became really close friends. I will treasure this experience with them forever,” said Molnar, reflecting on her journey and success.

Mia also shared her favourite moments from the tournament: “The excitement of warming up on the court and waiting to start each match was just thrilling! Knowing that the level of volleyball at this tournament was so high and playing against the best players from each province was unique and different than any club volleyball experience. We went undefeated in all our matches. Against the top Alberta team in the finals, with so many fans from B.C. and Alberta cheering us on, we were down for the first time in the tournament. But we didn’t give up and were able to turn it around and come back to take the next two sets in a row to win the Gold medal! That was an amazing feeling!”

Lanna van der Velden, President of East Kootenay Volleyball Club, expressed her pride and excitement: “This achievement is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our athletes and coaches. Our program brings together youth from across the East Kootenay, providing them with meaningful activities that keep them active and engaged. Through sport, we connect families and build lasting relationships.”

EKVC, a non-profit organization run by volunteers, provides youth with opportunities to play volleyball beyond school programs. With 208 registered athletes in the 2023/2024 season, they’re expecting even more growth this year. Despite drawing from a smaller pool of athletes compared to larger cities, EKVC athletes have achieved remarkable success.

During the 2023/2024 season, EKVC showcased the incredible talent and dedication of its athletes. The 15U Boys clinched gold and the Division 3 Provincial Championship banner, while the 18U Boys secured gold at Premier 3 in Division 3. The 15U Girls Blue team won gold at Provincials in Division 3 and silver at Nationals in Tier 16, Division 2. The 15U Girls White and 16U Girls earned silver at Provincials and Premier 3, respectively, with the 14U Girls White also claiming silver at Premier 3. The 13U Girls Blue took home bronze in Division 1 at the Alberta South Premier 2 tournament.

“As EKVC continues to grow, our goal is to establish a strong volleyball community in the East Kootenays. We believe in the program’s potential to pursue sustainability and ensure its longevity. The dedication and hard work of our volunteer coaches, assistant coaches, managers, and board members are integral to our mission. We are grateful for their contributions help create meaningful growth and development for the region,” added van der Velden.

Molnar, looking forward, shared her aspirations: “After hopefully a successful high school season at Mount Baker, I look forward to our club team continuing its growth in Division 1 this coming season. I hope to continue to work hard and to be invited back to tryout for the U18 Team BC experience next summer. I also have post-secondary aspirations and would love to play at the University level or somewhere else at a high level if that’s possible. I will work hard to keep my grades up, and to keep all my skills building, and to make those possibilities become reality. I also plan to help coach and mentor some younger volleyball players this season, and to share my love for this game.”

EKVC is a grassroots non-profit organization run by dedicated volunteers who understand the importance of youth recreation in healthy communities. EKVC provides young athletes with opportunities to play volleyball beyond school programs, fostering community and promoting healthy, active lifestyles. With an impressive track record of success, EKVC continues to grow and establish a strong volleyball community in the East Kootenay.

Photos submitted

East Kootenay Volleyball Club

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