Fresh off a playoff appearance and a strong showing against a pair of tough opponents, the Nipissing Lakers men’s volleyball team has added to their program.
The Lakers are proud and excited to announce the signing of setter Marek Vann Struth as he joins the roster for the 2024-25 OUA season.
The Vancouver, BC product is excited to join Nipissing and the men’s volleyball program.
“I’m super excited to sign with the Lakers and join the program. It’s been a dream to play post-secondary volleyball since I started and I can’t wait for next season to begin,” he said. “Going into my freshman year, I want to learn the team system and elevate my game to the competitive level of the OUA.”
Enrolling in the BPHE program, Vann Struth believes Nipissing is the right choice academically, on top of the athletic side.
The combination of these aspects is what Van Struth was seeking in a post-secondary institution after he wraps up his career with the 604 Dunbar Cycles.
“I chose Nipissing because I’ve heard such great things about the coaching and the program from my club coach who was a Laker while he attended Nipissing. I’m looking forward to the smaller class size and the community vibes on campus, and also seeing more of Ontario,” he explained.
He was earned an All-Star at BC Provincials last year when his club finished second provincially and fifth nationally. He was also chosen MVP by his teammates at the end of last season.
Vann Struth was a member of Team BC twice, including last summer when he suited up for the team and played in the Canada Cup held in St. Catharines, ON.
Lakers head coach Eric Yung is a fan of Vann Struth’s and likes what he can bring to the team moving forward.
“We are thrilled to have Marek join our program. I had to opportunity to work with him at the Canadian Showcase and knew immediately he would be a great fit,” Yung said. “Marek brings good size at the setter position and will challenge our young core of setters. Alumnus and former captain, Jack Peckham, Marek’s current club coach, raves about Marek’s character and we are excited to have him on Campus in September.”
On top of his character and the intangibles that will make Vann Struth a nice addition, the newest Laker is looking forward to showcasing his skill set on the court.
“I’m a strategic player who is extremely competitive. I work hard to lead the team as a setter and I enjoy playing physically at the net,” he explained. “I think that the effort you put into training and practice pays off on the court and leads to team success and I look forward to contributing to the Lakers next season.”
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