2023-24 Marauder Women’s Volleyball Preview

HAMILTON – The McMaster Marauders women’s volleyball team is gearing up for what promises to be an exciting and highly anticipated 2023-24 season. After closing out last year’s campaign in the first round of playoffs, the Marauders are back with renewed determination and are hoping to build on their successes. One significant point of pride for the team is the opportunity to host the 2024 U SPORTS Women’s Volleyball Championship in March. This event adds an extra layer of motivation for the squad and their fans as they aim to deliver a strong performance on home court.

After finishing last season with a 14-6 record, the Marauders qualified for the OUA playoffs but were knocked out by the York Lions in the quarterfinals, leaving them eager to respond this time around. With most of last year’s roster returning, the team benefits from experience gained and lessons learned, and they are determined to turn that into success. This group of returners has strong chemistry on the court which should bode well for their performance this season.

One of the team’s key assets is All-Canadian outside hitter, Sullie Sundara. The Kanata local has been a standout player for the Marauders since her rookie season and her ability to deliver powerful attacks while maintaining a offensive presence from the service line has made her a force to be reckoned with. She totaled 240 kills last season, averaging 3.87 kills per set while also totaling 21 service aces. Her experience and leadership will be invaluable in guiding the team towards their championship goals. In the spotlight of hosting the U SPORTS Championship, Sundara will be expected to step up and provide crucial points when needed.

In addition to their returning talent including Sundara, Hayley Brookes, Emma McKinnon and Ellie Hatashita, the Marauders have also welcomed some notable new recruits and transfers. These additions bring fresh energy to the team, further strengthening the McMaster lineup. Interim Head Coach, Nathan Janzen, is excited by the depth and versatility that these new players bring.
 
One significant addition to the team is middle Jenna Woock, who returns to Ontario after playing professionally with UTE Budapest in Hungary. Prior to competing internationally, Woock played for the Varsity Blues where she received many accolades including being named a member of the OUA All-Rookie Team during the 2017-18 season, a 2x OUA Second-Team All-Star (2017-18, 2018-19) and a 2x OUA First-Team All-Star during the 2019-20 and 2021-22 seasons. She was also named a U SPORTS First-Team All-Canadian and the OUA Most Valuable Player in her final season with Toronto.  
 
Another newcomer to watch is outside hitter, Olivia Julien, a recruit with a strong offensive skill set. The 5’10 Mississauga local played for Pakmen Volleyball Club where she most recently won the OVA Grand Prix in the 18U division. In 2019 and 2020, she was a member of Team Ontario. Julien is also a three-time recipient of the OVA Award of Excellence, winning in 2018, 2019, and 2022.
 
The Marauders have had a strong pre-season against some tough competition and have had numerous opportunities to refine their strategies. As McMaster prepares to face some of the best teams in the country in March, they are hoping to perform in front of their fans. The excitement surrounding the season is palpable and the team is aware of the expectations that come with hosting a national championship. With an experienced core, exceptional individual talents and a supportive fan base, the McMaster Marauders women’s volleyball team is set to make a significant impact in the 2023-24 OUA season and at the 2024 U SPORTS Championship and are ready for an unforgettable season of action.