Rukavina named head coach of TMU Bold men’s volleyball

TORONTO – The TMU Bold are pleased to announce the appointment of Niko Rukavina as the head coach of the men’s volleyball program following a nationwide search.

Rukavina has been with the Bold since 2018, starting as an assistant coach then serving as the interim head coach over four seasons. During his six years at TMU, the men’s volleyball team has been recognized with 21 OUA all-stars and award winners, with five going on to win at the U SPORTS level.

“We’re delighted to make this announcement – Niko has proven himself in the role of both interim and assistant head coach of TMU’s men’s volleyball team to be highly capable. He certainly knows all of the ins and outs of varsity volleyball – from winning two OUA championships as a student-athlete to performing all of the necessary and myriad administrative support roles as an assistant head coach, to leading strategy and calling all of the plays as interim head coach. Niko’s players are huge supporters of him, and we’re really looking forward to seeing where Niko can lead the team,” said TMU’s Executive Director of Athletics and Recreation, Louise Cowin.
 

Rukavina has been on the Ontario University Athletics (OUA) scene since his playing days, graduating from Queen’s University after five seasons on the court with the Gaels. He won two OUA championships and two silver medals with the Gaels, and was named an all-star and Libero of the Year in his final season. Queen’s was also where Rukavina got his coaching career started, returning to Kingston to join the staff after his professional playing days.

Rukavina played overseas for Habo Volley in Sweden and TV Rottenburg in Germany before returning to Canada.

His coaching accolades also resonate at the club level, leading the Mississauga Pakmen Volleyball Club to two national titles while also working with Team Ontario athletes for four summers.

“I am incredibly grateful and honoured to be named the next head coach for the TMU Bold men’s volleyball team. This group of student-athletes is a heavily motivated and hard-working group of men who I look forward to bringing this program to the next level with,” said Rukavina.

“I also look forward to continuing to work alongside our varsity leadership and integrated support team on creating an exceptional student-athlete experience. TMU is a vibrant and growth-minded community and I’m grateful to be a part of it. We are excited to start putting in the work for the 2024-25 season.”

The Bold’s first serve in the new era will fly this fall. Stay tuned for the schedule release this summer.