(FREDERICTON, NB) The UNB REDS women’s volleyball team is naming middle Madeleine Folmer to their recruiting class of 2025.
The 17-year old is finishing her Grade 12 year at Fredericton’s École Sainte Anne and has signed a U SPORTS Letter of Intent. She’ll join the REDS ahead of the 2025-2026 Atlantic University Sport season.
“I always thought I’d be playing basketball for UNB,” said the 6’0” Folmer. “I spent a big chunk of my life playing basketball. It wasn’t until 2023 that I changed my priorities to volleyball and worked hard. What appealed to me most was the recognition of women’s sports that UNB shows. I was able to relate to how the team treats each other and wants to make everyone the best they can be.”
“Her presence in the middle position is strong, and she has the physicality we look for,” said REDS’ head coach Lauren Hale-Miller. “Beyond her skills, what really caught my attention is her attitude and work ethic. Maddy is constantly pushing herself to improve, which is the type of mindset that fits perfectly with our program’s values.”
Folmer helped École Sainte Anne capture the 2024 AAA girls provincial high school championship and she’s a veteran member of the Spartans Volleyball Club.
Earlier this year, she was a member of Team NB at the Canada Cup tournament.
“I think I can bring a positive energy, coachability, and a strong work ethic,” she said. “I want to be the best I can be, and I think I can get there with the REDS.”
“I expect Maddy to bring a strong presence at the net,” said Coach Hale-Miller. “Her dedication to growing as a player, combined with a great attitude, will add to our team culture in a positive way. Her work ethic will also set an example for her teammates and contribute to the competitive, hard-working environment we strive to maintain.”
Folmer says her short-term goals include getting stronger, in order to compete at a higher level. Long-term, she wants to help the REDS win an AUS title.
Folmer will enter UNB’s Faculty of Science.
STORY BY: Andy Campbell/UNB Athletics
PHOTO: Submitted