Fresh from a disappointing 2024-25 campaign, the Brock men’s volleyball team enters the new season with something to prove. Last season wasn’t one to remember, as the Badgers finished the year with a 7-13 record, failing to qualify for the OUA playoffs. Whether it was a lack of cohesion within the team or the minimal amount of depth on the roster, Brock just couldn’t figure it out.
Nevertheless, the new season brings a lot to look forward to for a team that is trying to find its identity. With a haul of recruits and the evolution of some of the league’s best players, Brock men’s volleyball could shape up to be something special this year.
Recruits
Coach Ian Eibbitt and his staff went to work this offseason, signing a boatload of new talent from across the province. It looks as though Brock is preparing for the departure of their two stars, Devin Cooney and Kylar Code. Both players are seniors on the volleyball team. This batch of new players sees Brock bring an array of different talent with various play styles to the table.
- Gavin Everett (MB)
- Mathieu Joli-Coeur (MB)
- Ben Karmazyn (RS)
- Josh Laflèche (L)
- Jonah Ragaisis (S)
- Toby Snider (OH)
- Cole Wiersma (OH)
It will be interesting to see if Coach Eibbitt utilizes his recruits this season. Depending on how some returning players perform throughout the year, it wouldn’t be surprising if some new faces work their way into playing in big-time moments. That being said, Coach Eibbitt has made it known over the past couple of seasons that he isn’t afraid of using players who may not have seen as much court time . It’s a stay-ready group on the Badgers bench. Many of the incoming players will have opportunities to prove themselves in Eibbitt’s system. Previously, the Badgers were struck with the injury bug, leaving important players like KJ Robinson out for stretches. This forced Eibbitt to change his rotation, utilizing players he may not have planned to before.
Returning faces
Most importantly, the Badgers will be relying on the returning players who kept the team afloat last year when things looked lost. As previously mentioned, Devin Cooney was one of the lone bright spots on Brock last year. The Kanata native had an outstanding season, filled with unforgettable performances, racking up kill after kill. Cooney was named an OUA First Team All-Star amidst his amazing year, earning respect from teams and coaches around the league. This year, Cooney looks to repeat his all-star season as his time with the Badgers ticks away. He is one of the hardest-working players on the Brock team, displaying his work ethic each game with his veteran-like poise that will be on full display this year. Not only does his hard work help himself, but it helps his teammates too. When your best player is putting in the work, that reflects on their teammates. Cooney is a born leader who is in win-now mode with a Badger team that needs a spark of life.
Alongside Cooney was his running mate, Code. The outside hitter had an exceptional season of his own, brutalizing teams with his insane power and killer mentality. Code was on a mission last season, finding himself in the top five for kills along with Cooney for most of the season. Now, in what looks to be his final season, he plays a veteran role on a team that needs guidance. Code will undoubtedly turn a lot of heads this year as a player to return to the All-Star team that he made in 2022-23.
Adam Shapcott is another player-coach Eibbitt will be heavily relying on throughout the upcoming season. The Badgers’ setter was a key piece to last year’s team, assisting in many of their big points. Shapcott has an undeniable chemistry with Cooney, making for one of the most dangerous one-two punches in the OUA. Shapcott and Cooney are close friends off the court. It’s no surprise that they play so well together on the court. Shapcott’s defence, his catlike reflexes and ability to pass the ball on a string are just a couple of reasons why he’s so vital to his team’s success. As a full-time starter and now an upper-year student, his voice is more important than ever. In past years he has done an outstanding job communicating with teammates, including young players. If Shapcott can replicate what he did in the previous season, this Badgers team can make a splash.
After years of disappointment, the 2025-26 Badgers men’s volleyball team looks to end their losing ways. With new faces and returning players with a chip on their shoulders, Coach Eibbitt could have his team in playoff form by the end of the season. Never count this team out, no matter the circumstances.