Baldur & Glenboro host successful High School "A" Volleyball provincials
Kudos to the Baldur and Glenboro Schools for organizing and hosting highly successful High School “A” Volleyball Provincials from November 28–30. Ten teams from across the province competed in a thrilling round-robin tournament, with the Glenboro Panthers boys finishing in fourth place after losing the bronze game against the Miami Marlins, while the Baldur/Cartwright Cougars girls finished in fifth place in their pool.
“It was a fantastic weekend of volleyball,” commented Corey Forbes, Glenboro’s tournament convenor. “As usual, the visiting teams had a great time in Glenboro. Thanks to everyone who helped out.” Devin McLean, Baldur’s tournament convenor, echoed the sentiment, adding, “the teams enjoyed the tournament and facilities. The canteen was really good, and the officiating was excellent.”
The Pantherdome buzzed with excitement, especially during the bronze medal match between the Glenboro Panthers and Miami Marlins. The closely contested games saw the Marlins edge out the Panthers with scores of 25-20, 23-25, and 15-5. The Elm Creek Cobras defeated the Hamiota Huskies to claim the Provincial banner. The Cobras won in 2 straight games with scores of 29-27 and 25-17.
Glenboro’s Evan Griffin was recognized for his exceptional performance, earning a spot as one of the tournament’s All-Stars.
The Baldur/Cartwright Cougars girls faced tough competition in their matches, losing four straight games. However, the Gilbert Plains Trojans emerged victorious in the girls’ championship, defeating the Reston Tigers in three matches to secure the banner.
McLean noted that the results closely mirrored the teams’ rankings going into the tournament, ensuring few surprises but plenty of excellent play.
This provincial championship is always an important and memorable event for all involved, but this year it had a special meaning to former Panther Coach Darryl Ford and MHSAA’s Hall of Fame member, as the weekend marked the 50th Anniversary of his first provincial championship tournament (held in Gimli). Even after just regaining his mobility following a recent surgery, Ford was able to attend the three day event and was provided with his own VIP gaming chair courtside where he watched the games closely and took part in the selection of tournament All Stars. Ford was very appreciative of the invitation and to be a small part of the tournament.
This three-day event highlighted the incredible talent, sportsmanship, and community spirit that high school sports bring to the region, leaving players, coaches, and fans with memories of an exciting weekend of volleyball.
