Having honed her volleyball skills through high school in Kelowna, Jenna Swetlikoff is now rounding into solid form in the collegiate game as a member of the College of the Rockies women’s Avalanche volleball team.
Swetlikoff, who played for the 2008 BC Summer Games team and was consistently recognized as the Most Valuable Player at tournaments through high school, has taken off as the middle blocker for the Avalanche this year, her second season in college.
At times she has been a dominant force for her team this season, according to women’s volleyball coach Agata Bendkowska.
“Jenna is a very talented player,” she said. “She has proven to be a force on the court and has the potential to dominate games and be a strong force in the PACWEST league. She is consistent and well-rounded.”
A six-foot, middle blocker, Swetlikoff played her high school volleyball at Kelowna Christian School and was recruited by the College of the Rockies coming out of the single-A school.
“Coming to College of the Rockies allowed me experience a new location while still playing a high level of volleyball,” said Swetlikoff.
Swetlikoff is enrolled in University Transfer – Arts courses at College of the Rockies in hopes of working toward a Bachelor of Arts degree and maybe becoming a teacher. While at the College she is enjoying her time with the Avalanche.
“My favourite are our long road trips,” she said. “Though we have run into issues with our bus breaking down and everyone is tired and frustrated, we end up having some of the best times just being together and bonding,” she said.
The College of the Rockies is idle until opening up the second half of their PACWEST season Jan. 11 and 12 at home to Comosun College.
To learn more about the College of the Rockies Avalanche teams, go to www.cotr.bc.ca/avalanche
