WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL: LAKERS ADD TEAM ONTARIO ELITE PRODUCT BY SIGNING HORVAT

The Nipissing Lakers women’s volleyball team has added another member of Team Ontario Elite, securing some of the top talent in the province as the program continues to grow.

The Lakers are excited and proud to announce the addition of 5-foot-11 outside hitter Anna Marie Horvat to the program ahead of the 2023-24 OUA season.

The decorated Burlington, ON product has made a name for herself suiting up for Team Ontario Elite and playing club for Defensa 18U Purple.

She’s already looking forward to joining the program, having spent some time with the coaching staff and current athletes.

“When I came to visit it felt like a family, the team is super close, the coaching staff seemed like a great fit and the fans are extremely supportive. “Finally, the academics were perfect for me.” She explained.

Enrolling in the education program, Horvat has a chance to make a name for herself with the program as she’ll join a team that has made strides over the past few seasons and have been climbing up the OUA standings.

“I’m explosive, loud, competitive, passionate, determined and a leader,” she stated.

She plans to help in any way she can when she suits up for the blue and green.

“I plan to have a consistent high effort in all situations and to be supportive no matter what and to stay communicative,” she said.

Horvat has received personal accolades, claiming hardware throughout her career.

She won the Heart & Hustle Award (Team Award), OVA Award of Excellence, Team Ontario Elite member, she’s a two-time Halton All-Star Award (school), Halton Catholic District School Board Champions and her and her team finished fourth at nationals this past year.

Lakers head coach Marc LaRochelle is excited to add Horvat and work with an athlete with her abilities and determination.

“I am very excited to welcome Anna to the Lakers family. Having an opportunity to spend time with Anna and watching her play I knew she would be a great fit with our program. She is talented, hardworking and competitive and will fit in with the team culture we have established at Nipissing,” said LaRochelle. “Horvat will bolster a talented young core that will surely be exciting to watch for years to come.”