Another great team is preparing to welcome a new season, ready to give 100 percent and strive for an even better performance than before.
The NAIT Ooks men's volleyball team continues to build on its strong team culture, one that never stops evolving. The group is focused on success in all areas while continuing to grow and develop. The players work in sync and are full of natural leaders, ensuring that leadership will never be in short supply this season. Among those who could take on that role are last year's ACAC All-Stars, Ben Kieser and Mason Gorski, whose experience and presence make them strong candidates to guide the team forward.
Beyond leadership, the team has set clear goals for the year. Each athlete has personal objectives, but one of the main challenges and strengths is connecting individual goals with the team's collective vision. By working toward both, the players can maximize performance while minimizing wasted effort. While personal success is rewarding, the team is encouraged to keep its eyes on the bigger picture. True achievement comes from consistent, disciplined effort that contributes to the overall success of the group.
To reach these goals, the Ooks must first overcome challenges, the biggest of which is understanding that every contribution matters. Whether large or small, every effort plays a crucial role in the team's progress. The coaching staff places great emphasis on this mindset, focusing not only on keeping athletes physically strong but also mentally resilient.
That's where the leadership and mentorship of the coaching staff make all the difference. They support the players both on and off the court, reinforcing the team's values and philosophy. Head Coach Phil Dixon shared his approach:
"My coaching philosophy is the same every season. We are a brotherhood — all players and coaches. I try to emulate strong leadership reflecting the Hebrew word Anavah, which means 'proudly humble.'"
New Season, New Talent
The start of a new season also means welcoming new talent to bring fresh energy and representation to the sport and the institution.
This year's team has a solid foundation, featuring seven fifth-year players and two setters. The group has built a strong sense of community and a clear understanding of what it means to be unified. "Brotherhood" plays a key role in shaping their team culture — and activities like team BBQs help foster connection, trust, and reliability among players, reinforcing their bond as one cohesive unit.
Since the team already knows each other well, and only one new player will be joining, chemistry is not a concern heading into the season. Instead, the focus is on integrating this promising new addition smoothly into the team's structure.
The Ooks' latest recruit, Ben Weiss, is an exceptional athlete with an impressive track record. His accomplishments include a bronze medal at the 4A High School Provincials, gold at the 2024 Canada Cup with Team Alberta 17U, gold at the 2025 Canada Summer Games with Team Alberta 18U, and a bronze at the 2025 Pan American Cup with Team Canada U19.
With his achievements, dedication, and potential, it's clear that Ben Weiss will be a strong addition to the NAIT Ooks lineup — a key piece for the present and an essential pillar for the future of the team.
With this philosophy at the core of their program, it's clear that the NAIT Ooks men's volleyball team is united, focused, and ready to take on the season with strength, purpose, and pride. The Ooks hit the court in their home opener on October 17th at 8 PM.