What was different about this year's USports championship team according to coach Carolyn O'Dwyer

Carolyn O'Dwyer shares her incredible volleyball journey—from discovering the sport in Calgary to playing at Mount Royal University, becoming head coach of the University of Alberta Pandas, winning a championship, and joining Volleyball Canada's senior women's national team staff.

In this in-depth conversation, Carolyn discusses her development as an athlete, the importance of club volleyball, the transition from player to coach, and the lessons she learned working under legendary Alberta coach Laurie Eisler. She also shares what it was like to receive the call to join Giovanni Guidetti’s coaching staff and what she has learned from one of the most respected coaches in international volleyball.

We also dive into:

Winning a championship with the Alberta Pandas

Coaching in Volleyball Canada’s Next Gen program

The experience of the FIVB Volleyball Nations League

How Canada is progressing on the world stage

Differences between U SPORTS and NCAA volleyball

Recruiting and retaining top Canadian athletes

What Carolyn looks for in recruits beyond volleyball skills

Mental toughness, resetting, and reading body language

Which volleyball position is the toughest to play

Fun off-court topics, including pineapple pizza and who should be interviewed next

Whether you're a player, coach, recruiter, or volleyball fan, Carolyn offers tremendous insight into athlete development, leadership, and what it takes to build a championship culture.

@TheVolleyballCanada @ualberta @volleyballworld @BearsandPandas
@usportsca