Two members of the Swift Current Junior SunDogs Volleyball Club received recognition at the Saskatchewan Volleyball Association awards in Saskatoon.
Jeff Jago was the recipient of the Male Performance Coach of the Year after coaching the 16U Jr. SunDog Men to the 2016 Provincial Championship in April.
Jago was a setter in Estevan in high school and at the club level before moving on to play for the University of Regina Cougars. He began coaching with the Junior SunDogs three years ago on the female side. After coaching three seasons at Wymark School, where he teaches, he continued to coach some of his athletes during the 2015-16 season on the 16U Junior SunDogs.
“Jeff’s dedication and commitment to this group of boys throughout the entire season enabled him to develop a team who dominated on the court in each match they played. He focused on building a structured learning environment that constantly challenged the athlete while providing both encouragement and support. He continuously motivated and taught his players to believe that there is nothing they can’t do and nothing they can’t accomplish,” noted the award news release.
The team eventually won silver in Division 1 Tier 2 at the 16U Canada West Championship in Calgary.
Braedon Friesen was named the Under 16 Male Player of the Year after helping lead his team to a provincial title and a strong showing at Westerns. The 6’5’’ hitter was noted as an imposing figure, hitting and blocking from the outside.
“With his quick arm-action, and ability to touch 11’1’’, his attacking was second to none in Saskatchewan. His front row presence also led to many spectacular blocks against opposing power hitters,” noted the award release.
“In addition to his considerable athleticism, Braedon has a highly advanced aptitude for reading the game and staying one step ahead of his competition. In many cases he seemed to know what his opposition was going to do before they did and positioned himself accordingly to leave an easy play to execute. With his high IQ for the sport and incredible attacking ability, he dominated most matches in which he participated.”
