Three apprentices return in RSEQ Volleyball

For the second consecutive season, the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) will feature second year participants in the Female Apprentice Coach Program (FACP).

In the Réseau du sport étudiant du Québec (RSEQ), three volleyball apprentices return to their respective teams in 2022-23.

The FACP, which is funded in part by Sport Canada, is designed to identify and support female graduating student-athletes who demonstrate the desire and skills for coaching by providing them opportunities to share in the coaching experience in the CCAA.

At Cégep André-Laurendeau, Marie-Ève Dorion will be mentored once again by André Gendron with the Boomerang.

Several seasons ago, as Dorion’s assistant coach during her final year as a student-athlete at McGill University, Gendron quickly saw her potential as a coach.

“She joined our program at André-Laurendeau three years ago, but it was during the pandemic that she really became aware of her interest in coaching,” he said. “I am convinced that Marie-Ève has what it takes to become an outstanding coach.”

Dorion has fit in seamlessly with the Boomerang. Having competed at the elite level, she understands the importance of teamwork to reach a common goal while developing critical thinking.

“I have always been interested in coaching and hope to have the opportunity to help develop future volleyball players for many years to come,” she said. “Ultimately, this program is a great professional development opportunity.”

At Cégep Garneau, Noémie Daigneault will be mentored once again by Maxime Van de Putte with the Élans.

“Last year’s experience confirmed that Noémie has what it takes to become an excellent coach,” said Eric Lavigne, Athletic Director at Garneau.

Daigneault is excited for yet another opportunity to continue developing her sills in her role as an apprentice.  

“I want to stay involved in volleyball to share my experience and knowledge with future female athletes,” she said. “I want to give my athletes what my coaches gave me when I was a student-athlete.”

At Cégep Édouard-Montpetit, Sharly Roberge will be mentored once again by Louis-Michel Bergeron with the Lynx.

Two seasons ago, Roberge worked with her former D2 collegiate team at Édouard-Montpetit, supporting coaches so that student-athletes could continue practicing during the pandemic.

In 2021-22, Roberge had the opportunity to work with the D1 team as she was accepted as an apprentice in the FACP. The experience was invaluable to her.

“I had a fantastic year,” she said. “This experience helped me see the game from a coach’s perspective.”

The sport has contributed greatly to her life balance and Roberge is grateful for her past coaches and all the hours they spent on the court with her. With that in mind, she is ready and eager to take on more responsibility this season with the Lynx.

“Learning surrounded by passionate athletes and head coach Louis-Michel will allow me to acquire useful skills for my future as a coach,” said Roberge. “The CCAA program will expand my opportunities to become a head coach of a college team of my own one day.”

Media Contact:
Rodney Wilson / rodney@ccaa.ca
Manager, Communications & Events