Volleyball players across Golden and Invermere will soon have a new organization to call home as the newly formed Columbia Valley Volleyball Club prepares for its first season.
Founded by Invermere resident Sue Bradley, the club was created to provide more local opportunities for young athletes while building on years of success already taking place in the Columbia Valley.
For the past decade, Bradley has helped coordinate club volleyball in Golden and Invermere under the East Kootenay Volleyball Club umbrella. As participation has continued to grow, she felt the time was right to establish a club dedicated specifically to the Columbia Valley.
“We’ve really built up a strong foundation of coaches, managers and people who are invested in bringing young athletes up,” Bradley said. “It felt like this was the year we could really make it happen, that we could have a club that’s just for the Columbia Valley and do things that are specific to our communities and help our athletes more locally.”
The decision follows an especially successful season for local athletes. This year, both Invermere girls teams captured gold medals in their divisions at nationals, while Golden’s U18 girls team earned a provincial gold medal after winning a national championship in their division the previous year.
“Our teams have been incredibly successful, especially considering we’re from small communities and many of our athletes have less club experience than larger centres,” Bradley said. “I think that really cemented that now is the time to build on that success and inspire even more athletes to play.”
Although the new organization will operate independently, teams will continue competing through Volleyball Alberta, where tournament travel is more practical for Columbia Valley athletes than competing in British Columbia’s Lower Mainland.
The club plans to offer programs for athletes ages 12 to 18, with competitive teams for both girls and boys where possible, as well as skill development programs for younger players.
Bradley hopes the organization will strengthen the volleyball pathway in both communities, giving athletes more opportunities beyond the relatively short high school season.
“Club volleyball creates a more competitive stream,” she explained. “Our coaches receive specific certifications, our athletes get to compete against teams from across Alberta, B.C. and Canada, and we’re hoping to build stronger development at younger ages so kids have more opportunities right here at home.”
As both a volleyball coach and a school counsellor, Bradley has seen firsthand the positive impact organized sports can have on young people.
“At its heart, sports are about connection and belonging,” she said. “Being part of a team gives young people a place where they feel they belong, while also building resilience, confidence and lifelong friendships. Volleyball especially teaches athletes how to recover from mistakes, face challenges and support each other through the ups and downs.”
She believes those lessons extend well beyond the court.
“I get to see kids becoming successful, feeling good about themselves and building confidence,” Bradley said. “Watching them work through obstacles together and develop those life skills is one of the most rewarding parts of coaching.”
While Bradley is based in Invermere, the club has strong representation in Golden. Nicole Chappelle, who has managed Golden’s girls teams over the past several seasons, will serve as the club’s administrator and registrar. Jennifer Wilson, based in Invermere, will take on the role of treasurer.
The club’s competitive season will run from December through May, allowing athletes to participate in both high school and club volleyball without overlapping seasons.
As the organization prepares for registration later this year, Bradley encourages families to visit the club’s website to learn more about upcoming programs and registration information. She also hopes more members of the community will consider getting involved.
“We’re especially looking for coaches in Golden,” she said. “Anyone who is interested in helping young athletes grow in the sport is encouraged to reach out.”
More information can be found at columbiavalleyvolleyball.com or by contacting the club at info@columbiavalleyvolleyball.com.
