Spencer Kingzett is ready for the fast pace of university volleyball with the York University Lions.
League games don’t start until Oct. 23, but Kingzett will make his Lions debut this weekend at the Ryerson Invitational Tournament. Since arriving in Toronto, Kingzett, a graduate of Princess Margaret Secondary, has been adjusting to life in the big city.
“It’s kind of cool. I’m liking it so far,” said Kingzett, who is one of 55,000 students at the university. “It’s weird going to school with a population larger than Penticton. I’ve always kind of wanted to go a big city. I really wanted a change of scenery. I love the Okanagan. It’s likely where I will go back to.”
For now he embraces change and the chance to go to Japan next summer. A two-time provincial bronze medal winner with the Mustangs, Kingzett was recruited to the Lions with the help of Naramata’s Logan Mend, a Pen High grad, who completed his first year with the Lions last season. Kingzett said Mend was asked by his assistant coach to do some scouting for the power hitting position and recommended him. Along with his high school bronze medals, Kingzett helped the Kelowna Kapow win a provincial championship.
Lion’s practices have given Kingzett a sense of the difference between university and high school volleyball. He is on the court everyday and the pace is quicker. Players also jump higher and hit harder.
“Here it is serious all the time,” added Kingzett. “The intensity level is definitely raised.”
Kingzett said this season is a big development year for him as he is motivated to mold himself. His goal is to put himself in a position to earn a starter spot in his second or third year.
“Once season starts it’s easier to tell where I am at,” he said.
