The club season typically runs from January to early May and represents MVC’s premier competitive programming. Athletes aged 12U–18U try out for placement on either Club Teams or Performance Teams, depending on their skill level and developmental goals.
Tryouts are held in late November and early December, following Volleyball BC’s designated tryout dates. Each age group typically holds two tryout sessions, and athletes are expected to attend both unless alternate arrangements are approved by the MVC Technical Committee.
Season costs for Club and Performance Teams generally range from $1,200 to $1,700. These fees typically include uniforms, tournament fees, gym time, coach travel costs etc., but do not include athlete and parent travel costs, accommodation, optional gear.
MVC typically offers female programming for the following age groups:
Each group generally includes one Performance Team and 1–2 Club Teams, based on athlete numbers and coaching capacity.
MVC typically offers male programming for the following age groups:
At 13U and 14U, the club generally aims to field two teams per age group. At 15U through 18U, one team per age group is typical, depending on athlete numbers and coaching availability.
For athletes aged 13U–16U who are not selected for a Club or Performance Team, MVC offers House League and Train and Play alternatives.
MVC runs two House League programs:
Each program includes one practice per week and one game-play session, using formats such as triple ball, double ball, freeball wash, or traditional volleyball. Activities are tailored to the developmental level of the group. Each league typically accommodates up to 60 athletes.
Train and Play is offered for male athletes aged 14U–16U, typically with one session per week for a smaller group of 12–15 athletes, due to coach availability and athlete registration.
MVC also offers introductory and developmental programming for athletes in Grades 3–7 (both male and female) from January through Spring Break. These programs are held 1–2 times per week and are designed for both beginners and returning players.
Abe currently serves as the Head Coach of the Vancouver Island University (VIU) Men’s Volleyball Team. In addition to his collegiate coaching experience, Abe was part of the medical staff for the Canadian Men’s National Team at the 2024 Olympic Games, contributing to the team’s preparation and performance on the international stage. His involvement with the national program highlights his deep understanding of high-performance systems and his ability to support athletes competing at the sport’s highest level. Beyond the court, Abe is the owner of Island Optimal, a multidisciplinary health and performance clinic based in Nanaimo, BC, where he leads a team of professionals dedicated to optimizing human performance through physiotherapy, strength and conditioning, and holistic wellness. His expertise in sport science and athlete care makes him uniquely positioned to support Mariners Volleyball Club with athlete athletic performance and long-term health.
Over her distinguished career, Kyla represented Canada in more than 250 international matches, competing in numerous NORCECA Championships, Pan American Games, and FIVB World Championships. She also played professionally across Europe, including top leagues in Italy, France, Turkey, and Germany, where she developed a strong understanding of high-performance training, team culture, and athlete leadership. Her transition from elite player to mentor and advocate has been marked by her commitment to empowering young women through sport. In her role on the Board of Directors, Kyla will bring her marketing skill set and will continue to work with our 14U–16U female programs supporting the continued growth of athletes and helping shape next generation of athletes to reach their full potential.
Andrew grew up in Nanaimo and played basketball for the VIU Mariners before embarking on a professional career overseas. He spent two years playing in Denmark and three in Australia before returning to Canada to pursue law. While attending Thompson Rivers University Law School, Andrew also served as an assistant coach for the TRU Wolfpack men’s basketball program. He later completed his law degree through the University of Victoria and now works for the Crown in Victoria. Andrew brings a unique combination of athletic, legal, and leadership experience to the Board and plays a vital role in supporting the club’s governance and operational decision-making.
Elise is a proud alumnus of Mariners Volleyball Club and a former Team BC regional program athlete. In 2015, she helped lead the Ladysmith 49ers to their first-ever Provincial Championship medal, earning silver. Elise has since given back to the sport through coaching roles at John Barsby and NDSS, contributing to a 4th-place Provincial finish in 2021. Within the club, she has coached athletes from Grade 3 to Senior Girls and has played a key role in the youth development programs. Elise has also served as both a head and assistant coach in the Volleyball BC Regional program and led the BC Summer Games Island Beach team. Off the court, she is an elementary school teacher in the Nanaimo Ladysmith school district and brings both care and structure to everything she does.
Ryan has over 30 years of volleyball experience as a player, coach, and program leader. He represented Team BC and played for White Rock VBC at the 1991 Junior Olympics before starring at Malaspina College (now VIU) and later at the University of Victoria. On the beach, Ryan earned multiple top-five finishes in pro/open-level events and won titles at the Western Canadian Triples and Kelowna Grass Triples. He began coaching in 1991 and has led high school, club, college, and beach volleyball programs. Ryan has guided over 20 high school girls’ teams to Provincial Championships and founded the Vancouver Island Beach Volleyball Academy (VIBA) in 2014. He holds a Bachelor of Education and Master’s in Leadership and Administration. Currently a teacher and athletic director in School District 68, Ryan is known for building high-performance environments focused on accountability, feedback, and strong team culture.
Tim is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CGA) with over a decade of experience working with individuals, small businesses, and non-profit organizations across Vancouver Island. Known for his precision and integrity, Tim brings financial expertise and strategic insight to the board. As a former member of the 2000 Malaspina University-College Mariners men’s volleyball team that earned a national silver medal, his athletic roots run deep. He has spent more than five years coaching with Nanaimo Volleyball Club in the early 2000s and has twice coached the Zone 6 boys’ indoor team at the BC Summer Games. Tim is passionate about mentorship, athlete development, and supporting the broader volleyball community.
Chris brings over 30 years of experience in sport administration and coaching. Prior to joining Mariners Volleyball Club, he served as CEO of Volleyball BC for over eight years, providing leadership in governance, operations, and fiscal responsibility. On the coaching side, Chris led the VIU Men’s Volleyball program from 2001–2010 and returned periodically as an assistant coach between 2016–2024. He has coached both indoor and beach volleyball for Team BC, including appearances at the 2005 Canada Games and the 2015 Western Canada Summer Games. Internationally, Chris has represented Canada by coaching at the U19 and U21 World Beach Championships. Now coaching his son Mason at the club level, Chris continues to mentor young coaches and contribute his deep knowledge of the sport to the volleyball community.
Shawn is passionate about helping people realize their fullest potential, whether in athletics, business, or life. A former university athlete, Shawn has coached at every level, including high school, club, and at the varsity level with both Malaspina/VIU and UVic. His involvement in volleyball spans across coaching, mentoring, and program development. Outside of sport, Shawn owns and operates two successful businesses—one in health and nutrition and the other in corporate leadership consulting. Since 2008, he has coached and mentored individuals around the world, both in-person and on stage. Though deeply committed to his work, Shawn prioritizes giving back to the community and supporting young athletes through the Mariners Volleyball Club.
Assists with the planning and delivery of youth programming, helping to coordinate schedules, events, and athlete support to create smooth and effective program experiences.
A dedicated coach with the club for the past three years, Kristian brings a wealth of experience, energy, and passion to his role. His understanding of both the game and the needs of young athletes makes him a perfect fit to facilitate our youth programs. As a coach, Kristian excels at connecting with young athletes, fostering their growth both on and off the court. His leadership is defined by a focus on skill development, teamwork and creating an environment where players feel motivated and supported. In his new role as Youth Program Coordinator, Kristian will work closely with our coaching staff and technical team to ensure a cohesive, structured and positive experience for our athletes. His commitment to continuous improvement, both for himself and his players, will help create a clear path for athlete progression within the club.
Responsible for implementing, and overseeing youth development programs. Gustavo ensures age-appropriate training and engaging opportunities for young athletes.
Gustavo, has over 30 years of international experience, brings a wealth of knowledge, passion, and dedication to our community. Originally from Argentina, Gustavo has built a career coaching athlete of all levels, from grassroots development to elite national and international stages. For 24 years, Gustavo served as the Volleyball Coordinator at Saint Matthew’s College in Argentina, guiding boys’ and girls’ teams aged 11 to 17. Under his leadership, the programs thrived, emphasizing strong foundational skills, discipline and a love for the sport. He has also coached championship-winning teams in U15, U17 and U19 national competitions and led Argentina’s U-19 Women’s National Team to international success. Beyond Argentina, Gustavo has contributed to high-performance volleyball programs in the U.S. and Cuba, enhancing his ability to bring diverse coaching methodologies to our club.
Manages daily club operations, communications, and membership services. Kim plays a key role in coordinating programs and supporting coaches, athletes, and families.
Kim’s volleyball journey began in New Brunswick playing Club from Grades 9 to 12. She competed at Eastern Canadians, Nationals and represented New Brunswick at the Canada Games. Kim continued her playing career at Mount Allison University, where she won an AUAA Conference Gold and competed at CIAU Nationals in Regina. A passionate beach volleyball player during her post-secondary years, Kim competed on both the East and West coasts. She encourages athletes to explore the beach game, noting its vibrant outdoor culture, athletic benefits and how it deepens an athlete’s understanding of game psychology, strategy and mental resilience. As a former multi-sport athlete, Kim is an advocate for sport diversification throughout youth development. She has been coaching for over 10 years in the community, including with the NDSS Islanders and Mariners Volleyball Club (MVC). She served as an Assistant Coach for the 2023 BC Provincial Championships Girls Island Zone team and Head Coach for the 2024 BC Summer Games Girls Island Zone team. Now fully retired from a career in Dental Hygiene, Kim is the full-time Administrator for MVC – a role she loves for the sense of community and opportunity that sport creates.
Oversees the overall vision, strategic planning, and administration of the club. Stephen leads the organization’s growth and development, ensuring MVC remains aligned with its mission and values.
Stephen brings over 25 years of experience in volleyball, spanning coaching and leadership roles at the high school, club, high-performance, and post-secondary levels. Prior to becoming Executive Director, he served for nine years as the Vancouver Island Regional Manager for Volleyball BC, overseeing all club programming, events, and high-performance initiatives in the region. During this time, he supported the development of athletes and coaches who have gone on to compete in CCAA, U Sports, NCAA, and National Team programs. Alongside his sport leadership, Stephen is an experienced educator and currently serves as a school Principal with Nanaimo-Ladysmith Public Schools. His work in education has equipped him with strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills, as well as a deep understanding of youth development, mentorship, and community engagement. As a coach, Stephen has guided teams to significant achievements, including a High School Provincial Championship with Nanaimo District Secondary School, multiple Beach Provincial Championship and BC Summer Games medals, and a National Championship with the 18U Team BC Girls Program. He was also part of the coaching staff for the Malaspina/VIU Mariners Men’s Volleyball Program during their run of multiple Provincial Championships and a National Silver Medal. His combined experience in education and sport positions him uniquely to lead MVC with integrity, vision, and a deep commitment to athlete growth both on and off the court.
