Men's Volleyball All-Stars

NANAIMO - Dr. Abe Avender was named 2024-25 PACWEST men's volleyball coach of the year as part of the PACWEST's annual all-star announcements.

Avender, who was with the medical staff of the Canadian men's national volleyball team at the Paris Olympics, led the Mariners to a second-place finish in the PACWEST conference. After starting the season 0-3, and with a team that lost several notable contributors to graduation, transfer, and injury. Avender gave opportunities to all of his players to contribute this season and was rewarded with many standout performances, a 14-6 record, and a #2 national ranking.

Colby Soolsma - First Team All-Star

Colby took a massive jump forward this season -- from a serving specialist to a well-rounded, dynamic, and vital part of VIU's offense. His serves are still sizzling--tops in the conference in aces (54), 18 and 24 aces ahead of 2nd and 3rd places (!)--but is also #2 in total offense and #3 in kills/set. 

Owen Dyck - Second Team All-Star

Owen's perseverance is worthy of recognition on its own--coming back ahead of schedule from a horrific leg injury in the summer that threatened his ability to ever return to the court--but his performances have made it extra special. Once back in the starting lineup, he led the Mariners on an outstanding second-half run to finish second in the conference. Owen finished fourth in conference digs per set, highlighting his defensive awareness. He did an outstanding job to get all of VIU's hitters involved—helping three Mariners finish in the top 10 of conference kills. Owen was also voted the winner of the annual Ryan Thibault Memorial Award.

Rylan Van Kooten - Second Team All-Star

Rylan has willingly stepped up into a leadership role with the team and he continued to deliver on the court. His athleticism allows him to play far above the net and high up the PACWEST leaderboard: eighth in total offense, tenth in kills/set, and eighth in blocks. He raises his game when stakes are high and delivered double-digit kills in 7 of the last 9 games as the Mariners clinched a playoff spot.

PACWEST Media Release - Complete List of All-Stars

Photos by Mary Kessenich