Manitoba Bisons Volleyball Stars Heppner and Weekes Honored by Canada West
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Winnipeg,MB – The Manitoba Bisons men’s volleyball team is celebrating important achievements as middle player Jordon Heppner earns Canada West all-star recognition for the second time in his career,and true freshman Owen Weekes is named too the Canada West All-Rookie team. These honors underscore the Bisons’ strong performance during the 2024-25 season and highlight the individual contributions of Heppner and Weekes.The team’s success reflects a blend of experienced leadership and emerging talent, setting a promising course for future competitions within the Canada West conference and U SPORTS volleyball.
Jordon Heppner’s consistent performance has solidified his position as a key player for the Manitoba Bisons. Two seasons ago, Heppner was named both Canada West and U SPORTS Rookie of the Year, setting a high standard for his future performance. This season, he surpassed expectations by achieving career highs in both aces, with a total of 41, and points per set, averaging 2.3. His ace total was second-best in the nation. The Bisons team also led the country in total service aces, recording a notable 184. This accomplishment underscores the team’s aggressive serving strategy and its effectiveness in disrupting opponents’ gameplay.
The 6-foot-6 Heppner started every game for Manitoba, maintaining a hitting percentage above .300 for the third consecutive season. He averaged 1.21 kills per set, showcasing his offensive capabilities. Defensively, Heppner contributed significantly with 58 assisted blocks, ranking sixth in Canada West, and 65 total blocks, placing him ninth in the conference. His all-around performance demonstrates his value to the team, contributing both offensively and defensively.
Heppner’s extraordinary performance extends into playoff competition. During the Canada West quarterfinals against UBCO, he set a rally scoring era school record for assisted blocks in a playoff match, recording nine. This marks the sixth time in his Bisons career that he has achieved six or more assisted blocks in a conference game. His ability to perform under pressure highlights his mental fortitude and his importance to the team’s success in critical moments.
Jordy has been our most consistent performer all season.
Arnd ‘Lupo’ Ludwig, Bisons Head Coach
Ludwig further commented on Heppner’s growth, stating:
He keeps getting better every year, and his journey from Rookie of the Year two years ago to being named Second Team All-Star showcases his natural progression as one of the top players at his position.
Arnd ‘Lupo’ Ludwig, Bisons Head Coach
Owen Weekes Makes Immediate Impact
Owen Weekes, a graduate of Vincent Massey Collegiate, quickly established himself as a valuable asset to the Bisons. Playing in 19 matches, the 6-foot-8 Weekes demonstrated his versatility by playing both left and right side positions. Originally a right side player,Weekes started all ten games at left side during the second half of the season. His adaptability and willingness to take on different roles have been crucial to the team’s flexibility and success.
During this period, Weekes consistently delivered strong offensive performances, achieving double-digit kills on four separate occasions. His regular season best came against UBC Okanagan on January 15, where he recorded 15 kills. Weekes concluded his rookie year with 123 kills, ranking third on Manitoba’s roster, and averaged 2.32 kills per set, also third-best on the team. His offensive contributions have provided a significant boost to the Bisons’ attack.
Weekes also contributed 15 service aces, with seven occurring in the final three games of the regular season. Defensively, he recorded a regular-season best 11 digs on January 24 against UBC. At the net, Weekes tallied 24 total blocks. His all-around game demonstrates his potential to become a dominant force in the Canada West conference.
Weekes elevated his game during the Canada West Play-In series at home.In a Thursday win over UBCO, he posted a career-high 22 kills. He followed this with a career-high four service aces in the Friday rematch, contributing to a series sweep. His performance in the playoffs highlights his ability to rise to the occasion and perform under pressure.
Owen had an outstanding second half of the season. He managed the switch from right side to left side seamlessly and finished with the highest attack efficiency of all U SPORTS rookies this year.
Arnd ‘Lupo’ Ludwig, Bisons Head Coach
Ludwig added:
He has played with poise beyond his years and has exceeded all first-year expectations.
Arnd ‘Lupo’ Ludwig, Bisons Head Coach
Looking Ahead
The recognition of Jordon Heppner and Owen Weekes underscores the strength and potential of the Manitoba Bisons men’s volleyball program. Heppner’s consistent performance and Weekes’ immediate impact as a freshman provide a solid foundation for future success. As the Bisons continue to develop their talent, they are poised to be a competitive force in the Canada West conference and U SPORTS volleyball. The combination of experienced leadership and emerging talent positions the team for continued growth and success in the years to come.
Bison Volleyball Soars: A Deep Dive into Heppner’s Legacy and Weekes’ Meteoric Rise
Did you know that a true freshman can make such an immediate impact on a university volleyball team that he earns All-Rookie team honors? The Manitoba Bisons’ success story shows us it’s possible.
Interviewer: Dr. Anya Sharma, a renowned sports analyst and volleyball expert with over two decades of experience analyzing collegiate athletic programs, joins us today to discuss the remarkable achievements of Jordon Heppner and Owen Weekes of the Manitoba Bisons men’s volleyball team. Dr. Sharma,welcome!
Dr. sharma: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss the exceptional talent showcased by these two young athletes.
Interviewer: Let’s start with Jordon Heppner. His consistent performance has earned him a second Canada West all-star nod. What makes him such a valuable asset to the team? What key attributes contribute to his all-around success in the game?
Dr. Sharma: Jordon Heppner exemplifies the ideal combination of offensive prowess and defensive stability. His consistent hitting percentage above .300 for three consecutive seasons speaks volumes. He’s not just about power; his game demonstrates calculated precision. His high number of assisted blocks – indicative of smart positioning and teamwork — highlights his value beyond just scoring points. His success underscores the importance of well-rounded skills in modern volleyball: strong offensive capabilities alongside a robust defensive game. He truly is a complete middle player. the ability to maintain this level of performance, especially under playoff pressure, showcases his exceptional mental fortitude and experience.
Interviewer: The article mentions his remarkable nine assisted blocks in a playoff match,a school record. What does this achievement tell us about his playing style and its impact on team dynamics?
Dr. Sharma: That record-breaking performance in the quarterfinals underscores Heppner’s ability to elevate his game when it matters most. It emphasizes the importance of clutch performance under high-stakes pressure.Nine assisted blocks aren’t just about individual skill; they require precise timing, anticipation, and seamless collaboration with his teammates. This showcases a player who understands the flow of the game,anticipates the opponent’s moves,and perfectly executes strategic plays during critical moments. This isn’t merely athleticism; it’s smart gameplay. This accomplishment speaks to his leadership on the court and his contributions to overall team cohesion.
Interviewer: Now, let’s turn our attention to Owen Weekes, the freshman sensation who’s already making waves. His versatility is striking.How important is his ability to transition seamlessly between left and right side positions? How does this impact the team’s strategic adaptability?
Dr. Sharma: Weekes’ adaptability is invaluable in today’s fast-paced volleyball landscape. The ability to seamlessly switch between left and right side positions enhances the team’s offensive unpredictability. It gives the coach strategic options and the ability to exploit opponents’ weaknesses. The demand for such versatility is growing in modern volleyball, making him a highly sought-after player. His quick learning curve and immediate impact are testament to his exceptional talent and dedication. This is a promising indicator of his future potential.
interviewer: What are the key takeaways from both players’ performances that aspiring volleyball players can learn from?
Dr. Sharma: Here’s a list of key takeaways:
Master the Fundamentals: Both players demonstrate a strong foundation in basic skills. This is the bedrock of any successful athlete.
Develop Versatility: Weekes’ success highlights the importance of being adaptable and willing to learn new positions.
Embrace Teamwork: Heppner’s many assists emphasize that success in volleyball is a team effort.
Mental Fortitude: Both players have shown an ability to perform under high pressure.
Interviewer: what’s your overall assessment of the Manitoba Bisons men’s volleyball team and its future prospects?
Dr. sharma: The Manitoba Bisons are clearly a team on the rise, boasting a compelling blend of experienced leadership and exceptional emerging talent. They have demonstrated exceptional capabilities on the court. With players like Heppner and Weekes leading the way, the Bisons are poised for continued success. Their strong team unity and ability to strategize effectively are clear indicators of a program heading in a positive direction. They are undoubtedly a team to watch closely in future seasons.
Interviewer: Dr. Sharma, thank you for sharing your insightful analysis. This has been truly enlightening!
Concluding Thought: The Manitoba Bisons’ success proves that a team’s success arises from both seasoned expertise and the infusion of exciting, adaptable newcomers.What are your thoughts? Share your insights in the comments section below! #bisonsvolleyball #CanadaWestVolleyball #UsportsVolleyball #Heppner #Weekes