By Sarah Tone, Communications Coordinator
Leading up to the 2022 Canada Summer Games, we are featuring the dedicated coaches who spend countless hours giving back to sport.
Let’s get to know Women’s Volleyball Assistant Coach, Gui Ossig, and Men’s Volleyball Assistant Coach Ryan Hudson.
Why did you get involved in coaching?
Ryan: I’ve been coaching for 13 or 14 years. I originally got involved with coaching to help the next generation develop the skills that I was shown by some influential mentors. Sport has had a big impact on my life and I’ve wanted to continue being involved in the game.
Gui: I have been coaching volleyball for the last 15 years or so. Volleyball was always one of my favourite sports to play and watch.
What is your proudest accomplishment as a coach?
Ryan: I love seeing athletes develop the confidence and belief in themselves that comes via sport. Beyond achieving some success in competition, I am proud that many of my former athletes stay involved in sport as well, including many returning to coach in our program.
Gui: The art of coaching is something else. I love the possibility of contributing to people’s lives. Could be from a smile, from a gesture, from a drill, from a team character-building meeting, from a pre-game team meeting, from a gold medal podium celebration, or simply from the gleam in a former athlete’s eyes when they see you!
What is your team doing in preparation for the Games?
We had some great beach practices and indoor ID/practices in 2020. With the restrictions of the pandemic, we couldn’t do much more. Strength and conditioning and mental health are our priorities now in order to get back together stronger and ready to go.
What are the team goals for the Games?
We hope to prepare as best we can physically, mentally, technically, and tactically for some strong competition. As a group we want to maintain consistency in our preparation and approach to the Games, stay connected as a group to help each other towards great heights, and communicate strongly and openly in order to reach our potential. If we can do this, we believe we can find success at the Games. We want to make this experience remarkable to everyone!
Any words of wisdom for your team going into the 2022 Canada Games?
Ryan: This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and as a former player in the Games who remembers it fondly, to enjoy and be present in every moment. Create some lasting memories and have fun competing against the best from around our country!
