Gryphons Men’s Volleyball 2023-24 Recruiting Class

GUELPH, Ont. – The 2023-24 Guelph Gryphons men’s volleyball team will feature four new student-athletes joining the program. A pair of setters, an outside hitter and a middle blocker make up the 2023-24 recruiting class for the University of Guelph men’s volleyball program. 

“I am really excited about the incoming class as they fit our needs perfectly,” says Gryphon head coach Cal Wigston, who enters his 18th season in charge of the U of G men’s volleyball program. “All players are not only good volleyball players but also good humans adding athleticism and integrity. We believe that we have guys that can play right away and support our veteran lineup. I’m expecting all four players to contribute on the court in 2023-24.”

The Gryphons will officially get their 2023-24 OUA regular season schedule underway on November 3 and 4 with a pair of road games against the Waterloo Warriors before returning to the Guelph Gryphons Athletics Centre where they will take on the Nipissing Lakers in their home opener on Friday, November 11. See below for more information on the newest additions to the Gryphons men’s volleyball team.
 

#1 Jack Barrett 

Height: 6-8 

Position: Middle Blocker

Program: Studio Art 

Hometown: Toronto, ON

Club: Leaside 

Quote from Gryphons head coach Cal Wigston:  “Jack is a big middle blocker hailing from Leaside volleyball club in Toronto. Jack has been gifted with tremendous size and potential. Jack will add to the program right from day one with his consistent positive attitude and work ethic. Jack is a great addition to the Gryphon family, I look forward to watching him improve over the years”. 
 

#4 Thomas Pugsley 

Height: 6-3 

Position: Setter 

Program: French 

Hometown: Foothills, AB 

Club:  Olds College

Quote from Gryphons head coach Cal Wigston:  “We are very fortunate to have Thomas joining our Gryphon Men’s Volleyball program. Thomas brings a lot of experience with him to the court after setting for Olds College in Alberta. Thomas is not only a solid player, but he is also an even better person. I look forward to what Thomas will bring to the team this year, his positivity, experience and leadership skills with are a huge asset”.
 

#5 Michael Dobell 

Height: 6-4 

Position: Setter 

Program: Commerce  

Hometown: Whitby, ON

Club: Thundercats 

Quote from Gryphons head coach Cal Wigston:  “Michael is a great addition to the Gryphon program. Michael makes great setting decisions on the court and is seen as a leader. His positive attitude will help him go far with this team. I am really looking forward to working with Michael helping him get adjusted to the university game”.  

#9 Cohen Martin 

Height: 6-3 

Position: Outside Hitter 

Program: Environmental Science 

Hometown: Hanover, ON

Club:  Bluewater Ballistix 

Quote from Gryphons head coach Cal Wigston:  “Cohen is a hard working outside hitter who really surprised us this off-season with his work ethic and determination. Cohen will contribute to the team right away pushing the veteran players for play time”.