A Drumheller native is heading up the SAIT Trojans women’s volleyball team this season.
In May, Art O’Dwyer was appointed coach of the Trojans for the 2011-2012 season.
“I am really enthusiastic and have a lot of energy to create a positive atmosphere for the Trojan team,” says O’Dwyer. “It is all about passion.”
He says the team is a good fit.
“The program at SAIT is on the upswing and has a lot of potential,” explains O’Dwyer. “I feel I can coach at this next level and I am a perfect fit.”
Born and raised in Drumheller, he went to study and play at the University of Calgary, and was a member of the team from 1977 to 1981, and for the 1986-87 season. In 1979, he spent a year on the Canadian National Junior Team.
He is a NCCP Level 3 certified volleyball coach, and since 1984 has coached boys and girls club and high school volleyball teams in Calgary. He was assistant coach of the University of Calgary Dinos men’s volleyball team in 1985-86 and 2005-06.
Most recently, he coached the Canuck Club U18 girls' team. This will be his first season coaching at a post secondary level.
“I have worked with different teams and types of athletes,” comments O’Dwyer. “I have worked hard on motivating female athletes. It is very rewarding and they tend to respond well to team goals.”
The season began last week for the Trojans with a home and away series with Medicine Hat College. This weekend they face Lethbridge College.
