WILKIE - Wilkie’s Isaiah Mamer adds another exciting chapter to his story.
Volleyball Canada announced their roster for the U21 men’s volleyball team May 30, with Mamer named to the team.
The Unity-Wilkie Press-Herald and SASKTODAY.ca caught up with Mamer and he outlined his hectic last few months.
“For the U21 Team Canada camp, there was a video selection process. Anyone could send in video from their past year showcasing their skill set and what they have to offer the team.”
Selections from those videos were narrowed down to 26 players that were invited to a week-long tryout camp, with the days ranging from three to six hours of volleyball per day.
A final selection was made choosing 16 players to stay, compete and train in Ottawa for upcoming tournaments in Cuba and Bahrain.
“This is another unbelievable accomplishment for myself. Knowing that I am capable of competing not only with the best in Canada, but the best in the world is such a powerful feeling it cannot be described in words.”
Mamer was quick to issue gratitude to all those who have helped in his journey and career goals including his coaches, teammates, mentors and role models. “Most importantly, I have to thank my family who has pushed me and supported me every step of the way as I could not have done this without them.”
After his inaugural season with the University of Saskatchewan Huskies men’s volleyball season, Mamer took one week off and has been going four days a week ever since.
“Just trying to prep my body and mind for the demands,” says Mamer. He affirms that with the support of teammates and coaches, he felt the process has worked out.
Prior to securing the roster spot, Mamer had some interim plans while away from classes and Huskies volleyball, however, that has been put aside to dedicate to his newest achievement. He will be away from home until approximately mid-July.
“This isn’t the end (of my goals and dream), it’s just one more thing to add to the resume.”
Mamer has been a common topic of stories in the Press-Herald and SASKTODAY.ca with his volleyball successes that include a Canada Games gold medal, competing ith U of S volleyball in Can-West championships, 2022 Sask. Volleyball male athlete of the year and now this recent announcement.
Volleyball Canada announcement read, “Volleyball Canada congratulates the athletes named to the roster for upcoming Under 21 tournaments. The players below will represent Canada at the following: NORCECA Men’s U21 Pan American Cup from June 3-11 in La Habana, Cuba. FIVB Men’s U21 World Championships are from July 7-16 in Manama, Bahrain
Follow the team’s progress at the Pan Am Cup at www.norceca.net”
Mamer will join one other Saskatchewan player on the roster from players across the country, Lucas Musschoot from Grenfell, Sask.
"Isaiah making this team is a testament to his hard work and dedication to this sport and to his development. He is amazing to have around the gym and if he is able to keep his attitude towards his growth, the sky is the limit for him," said Sean McKay, Head Coach of U of S men's volleyball and Assistant Coach for Team Canada U21 volleyball.
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