The Nipissing Lakers women’s volleyball team has centered their focus on the middle with their latest addition.
The Lakers are excited and proud to announce the signing of Ramanda Bell, who will join the program for the 2022-23 OUA season.
Making her way to Nipissing after a successful run with the Maverick Volleyball Club and Longfield Davidson Heights Secondary School, Bell is excited about her next step.
“I chose Nipissing for their great teaching program and to join the amazing atmosphere of the Lakers. The first time I visited, I felt very included in the locker room after meeting the team a few minutes before,” she said.
Hailing from Ottawa, Ontario, the middle will join the education program on the academic side, but is also thrilled to be able to hit the court and contribute to the Lakers on the court.
Bell participated in the Ontario Summer Games in 2018 and along with her time with MVC and in high school, she feels ready to make the jump to the OUA/USports.
“I hope to grow into a bigger player on the court, with the help of the Lakers I believe that can be accomplished,” she said of what she’s looking forward to when she arrives at Nipissing in the fall.
On the court, Bell is open to any challenge and knows there will be a big jump in the style and type of play from the club level to varsity.
That being said, she won’t shy away from the hard work that is needed to help the team continue to find success.
“I would describe myself as a focused and competitive player who is always up for a new task. I would say I am a dynamic player at the net and always ready to execute the ball,” Bell explained.
Lakers head coach Marc LaRochelle liked what he saw from Bell during her season and is excited to add her to the program.
“Ramanda has the ability to help the program and with some hardwork, she will be able to contribute,” he said. “While there is an adjustment period, she definitely has the mindset and focus to improve and adapt to the new challenge ahead of her.”