Thanks to the CCAA Female Apprentice Coach Program, the Clipper Girls’ Volleyball Team has a new assistant coach—Tabitha Garey, Briercrest grad and veteran Clipper volleyball player.

Garey, who has been playing volleyball since the fourth grade, chose Briercrest because of its competitive volleyball program, and she ended up playing Clipper ball for a full four years. Her passion and natural leadership were evident, making coaching a natural next step for her.

After she graduated, she began working with a girl’s team at a Christian high school and later a U-16 club team. "I just fell in love with the girls," she said. "My two biggest passions are volleyball and young women, and I’m going to be involved with [both] forever."

This year, she decided she wanted to be involved with the Clippers again, and she told head coach Nolan Weinmaster that she wanted to help in any way she could. He was eager to have her, and fortunately, their application for the CCAA’s Apprenticeship Program grant came through. "There is a strong need for qualified female coaches at all levels of play," said Weinmaster. “I’m excited to have Tabitha on board and I look forward to working with her throughout the season. She’s already having a huge impact on our program."