Picture Butte High School graduate Corny Bergen has been signed to the Lethbridge Polytechnic Kodiaks men’s volleyball team.
He is a graduate of the U17 Canada Games Team Alberta program and currently plays club volleyball for the Junior Kodiaks program.
Bergen was named MVP of his high school league and MVP of the prestigious GANZA All-Star Game. Hosted by the University of Alberta, the event showcases the best volleyball players from across the province.
“Corny is simply one of the most exciting outside prospects, not only in Alberta, but in the country,” says head coach Greg Gibos. “He plays with such a freedom, pure enjoyment and dedicated work ethic. Not only is he extremely physically gifted, but he’s the hardest working athlete in the gym. He’s going to do incredible things as a Kodiak, and I can’t wait to have him full time in the gym training with us.”
Bergen credits the support of his family and coaches for getting him to this point, especially his brother, who played a pivotal role in his volleyball journey. “One of the major factors in my growth was my brother – getting to compete with him and fall in love with volleyball was truly one of the most significant aspects of my motivation, as an athlete,” he says. “I’ve had tremendous coaches along the way and I’m just so thrilled to get to achieve my dream of playing post-secondary volleyball.”
Bergen says Kodiaks culture is what set Lethbridge apart when he was making his post-secondary decision.
“The program is just full of great people,” he adds. “Getting to play in front of my friends and family and hopefully inspire other southern Alberta athletes to continue playing volleyball is going to be such an honour.”
“It’s honestly such a perfect fit for Corny and our program,” notes Gibos. “Rarely, does an athlete make such strong connections on their visit, and it felt like he was already a member of the team with his ability to connect with others. He’s one of the best talents southern Alberta has produced, and he has the potential to play professionally whenever that time comes for him. He’s going to be worth attending a match next season to see how special he can be.”
