UBCO Heat Volleyball Teams Launch Youth Clinics in Nunavut

UPDATE: Members of the UBCO Heat volleyball teams are making waves in Iqaluit, Nunavut, as they engage with over 600 students in a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing youth sports development. This urgent mission, taking place from October 27, 2025, marks a significant step in connecting athletes from the Okanagan to the Arctic, fostering both education and community spirit.

Upon landing in Iqaluit, UBCO athlete Natalie Funk was struck by the breathtaking snow-covered landscape, starkly different from her home in the Okanagan. “It was completely white, super snowy,” Funk recalled, echoing the excitement of representing her team far from home. This visit is not just a trip; it’s a vital partnership that has evolved over the past decade, aimed at promoting volleyball and creating lasting relationships.

During their stay, the UBCO teams, comprised of both men’s and women’s players, volunteered as coaches at local schools, including Joamie, Nakasuk, and Aqsarniit, conducting physical education sessions that spanned 33 classes. The response from students was overwhelming, celebrating local culture and achievements in an assembly dedicated to traditional goose-hunting practices. “You could feel the pride,” Funk noted, reflecting on the deep cultural connection and the honor of being included in such events.

This collaboration began when Volleyball Nunavut sought assistance from UBCO, leading to a rich exchange of knowledge and skills. According to UBCO Heat women’s coach Steve Manuel, this initiative has expanded significantly, allowing UBCO athletes to facilitate local championships and training sessions. “Their coach watched our students run everything from top to bottom and said, ‘Bring your crew north and help us run our championship,’” Manuel explained.

Throughout their visit, UBCO athletes organized 50 matches and conducted training for 14 boys’ and girls’ teams across Nunavut. Former UBCO captain Téo Ardanaz emphasized the importance of these championships for local athletes, stating, “For many of these athletes, the Territorial Championship is their one chance to compete all year.”

This partnership not only benefits the youth but also enriches the UBCO students’ educational experience. “Our students learn a ton about logistics, humility, and adaptability,” Manuel remarked. The learning continued for Funk, who later coached Team Nunavut at the Canada Summer Games, fulfilling crucial coaching certification requirements in the process.

Funding for these impactful trips is bolstered by grants, such as the recent support from the Calgary Foundation’s Daryl K. Seaman Canadian Hockey Fund, which allowed for extended stays and more community engagement.

As Funk reflected on her journey, she recognized the profound impact volleyball has on both communities. “It reminded us that volleyball is a privilege,” she stated, realizing the joy and gratitude experienced by athletes in Nunavut.

This initiative underscores the importance of community connection through sports, highlighting how partnerships can bridge vast distances, bringing together diverse cultures and fostering a sense of belonging. The UBCO Heat volleyball teams continue to inspire and uplift, proving that the spirit of the game transcends geographical boundaries.

Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving story and the continued impact of UBCO’s outreach in Nunavut.