The Simon Fraser University Clan volleyball program has signed Megan Ireland of Courtenay to a national letter of intent.
"Megan brings a ton of speed and athleticism to the court," said head coach Gina Schmidt. "She has played primarily as a middle blocker but we believe she has the potential to contribute at a variety of positions for us. Her high school, club and provincial team experience has equipped her with a skill set that will translate well into the NCAA game. We are very excited about her future with our program."
Ireland won a silver medal competing with the BC under-18 team at the NTCC Tournament in Winnipeg, MB and played on Team BC in 2012 as well.
As a member of the G.P. Vanier Secondary School team, she won two Vancouver Island AAAA championships and was named Island Most Valuable Player in Grade 11 and 12.
"I was attracted to Simon Fraser as it is a well-respected B.C. university with a great history and the chance to play in the NCAA while still attending a Canadian school was a unique opportunity," said Ireland. "Playing for Gina was a big draw as she is a great coach and player. I've been described as an athletic player who can play all over the court.
"I am looking forward to living on campus, attending classes but most of all being part of the Clan women's volleyball program, playing and travelling. My goals are to do well in school, grow as much as possible as a player and contribute to the team in the upcoming season."
Growing up in Comox Valley, Ireland was an all-around athlete, playing basketball and rep soccer in addition to volleyball. She spent many seasons with the Comox Strikers Volleyball Club and currently plays for the Victoria Titans.
She will join the Clan in August for training camp as the team begins preparations for the 2014 Great Northwest Athletic Conference season.
In 2014, the Clan will be looking to improve on last season when the team won more games than the previous three years, making it their best season since joining the GNAC and the NCAA.
SIDE OUTS The six-foot tall Ireland was #8 in the Province newspaper's Best of B.C. Seniors Girls Super 15 Class of 2013-14, where it was noted: "Fast and athletic middle blocking tent, she can play all over the court." …
– SFU Clan