This recruit release is presented by Hotchkiss Home Furnishings.
By: Thomas Tremblay, BA'17
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The men's volleyball team at St. Thomas University is pleased to announce its first recruit for the 2018-2019 season.
Benson Garchinski of Biggar, Saskatchewan, has committed to join the Tommies in the Atlantic Collegiate Athletic Association conference.
Garchinski, a six-foot outside hitter, comes to Fredericton following a successful and on-going club career with the Huskies Volleyball Club (HVC) in Saskatoon. The team had a great showing at the 2017 17U National championship, finishing in a tie for ninth place.
During his grade 11 high school season, Garchinski had the opportunity to be coached by Anne Cote, a renowned member of the Volleyball Saskatchewan community and Volleyball Canada's coach of the year for 2005.
It was during this time, he discovered the importance of good coaching—something he's found at St. Thomas.
"One of the biggest reasons I chose St. Thomas was for head coach Henri Mallet. He got in touch with me last summer and from our first conversation to the first skype call, as well as my visit, I was impressed with his technical coaching style and infectious love for the sport," Garchinski said.
Mallet is excited to have a player of Garchinski's caliber joining his roster.
"Benson adds some depth at the left side and passing positions. He brings athleticism and speed to our team, and being a great competitor, Benson is exactly the type of athlete we are looking for to continue to improve as a program," he said.
"We're excited to have Benson commit early in the process, not only for his high volleyball IQ, but because he's a great person and a strong student—exactly what we look for in future Tommies."
As for Garchinski, he quickly jumped on board with the goal of winning a national championship.
"Obviously the long term goal is to help win a CCAA championship, but while doing that I would like to leave a lasting imprint on the Tommies program and a legacy for players that come after me," he said.
Mallet is hoping Garchinski's commitment helps bring in players from all across Canada.
"We're excited to land another solid recruit from out West. We will continue, as a coaching staff, to not only recruit top athletes from Fredericton and the region, but also from across Canada as we continue to work towards a national championship.''
The Tommies kick off the 2017-2018 campaign at home November 11 against the Holland College Hurricanes. First serve is at 6pm.
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