Dear VNS Friends,
From all across our beautiful province, I have seen and heard stories of so many of you amazing volleyballers who have come together in an enduring and familial spirit of invention to lift up our sporting community through often challenging circumstances.
I can’t help but think of an ancient proverb that goes like this (I’m paraphrasing): “We can boast in our hardships, knowing that hardships produce perseverance, and perseverance builds up character, and character develops hope — and hope will never disappoint us.”
I know how challenging things have been for many of you since COVID first entered our province more than a year ago. I know it’s been hard — we are all struggling in our own ways. But I have seen things in you that renew my sense of optimism.
Where resources suddenly became scarce, you saw opportunities to develop new community partnerships. When health and safety concerns placed previously unheard-of conditions on play, you adapted and adopted new ways to share our wonderful game with one another. When gathering limitations prevented us from holding tournaments, in your determination and creativity you created new ways to enter the competitive arena. When things tightened up, preventing us from traveling around our province, you saw the importance of sport in our lives and welcomed each other into your local training environments.
Most importantly, when you were separated from those you love for prolonged periods, you found the greatest gift volleyball offers any of us and you forged family and friendships on the court.
To all the parents and supporters — to the 75 referees, 334 coaches, and 1610 young athletes who made up our 2021 Volleyball Nova Scotia community: Thank you for who you are and what you have accomplished. You have faced a myriad of hardships and have wonderfully persevered with tremendous grace. You have shown such compassion and resolve in your character. You have given me great hope.
So, yeah — I’ll boast! I am so proud that I have the amazing privilege of being part of your community — no one could be prouder!
We all look forward to getting back to what is most important in all our lives — being with the people we love and who build us up. As Nova Scotians, we can each do our part to help make that day come sooner than later. Please pay attention to and follow the guidelines and policies set out by our health authorities. Together we can put COVID behind us for good.
Words can’t express how much I am looking forward to seeing all of you soon. Until then, please stay safe.
Keep the ball flying,
Paul Worden
President
Volleyball Nova Scotia