ANSWERS TO THE MOST ASKED QUESTIONS

Where do the Gee-Gees travel to train & compete ?
In an effort to provide the best possible experience for student-athletes while at Ottawa U, the women's volleyball team attempts to travel and compete in the top tournaments and events in the country as well as events outside of Canada and North America for athletic and cultural experiences alike.

In the past 20 years of the Gee-Gees volleyball program, the team has travelled to virtually every major city in Canada while attending training camps, exhibition tournaments, league play and championship competition. As well as touching down in all ten of our provinces the team has ventured out of the country to Florida, Europe and Cuba, with plans to create funding for trips to many more countries on an annual or bi-annual basis.

How many matches do the Gees play in a season ?
The Gee-Gees play an average of 45 - 60 matches in a season that runs from the first week in September through to mid March, with a mid season break for the month of December.

What does a typical weekly practise schedule look like ? (click here for full schedule example)
Each semester the players' class schedules are used to set 2-3 evening practises and 1-2 daytime practises per week. This process of scheduling training works to create the least amount of conflict with academics during the season.

Is team practise the only comittment for training ?
Athletes are provided with individual training sessions and video analysis sessions to work on particular skills and tactical aspects of the game. These sessions vary in style, timing, length and scheduling based on the development stage of the athlete with respect to school and volleyball.

How does physical training fit in with the overall schedule ?
Much of the extra (in-season) conditioning and strength training is accomplished right in practice; once again attempting to cause the least amount of interference with class schedules and study time. The team has a full time strength training coach who is on campus and available to athletes as they complete their supplemental physical training programs in the weight room 2-3 days per week.

What kind of training goes on in the off season ?
Spring and summer physical training programs are provided and expected as part of an athlete's comittment to the Gee-Gees Volleyball program. The design of these programs allow for individual work schedules and an opportunity for athletes to be away from Ottawa during the summer without missing any preparation time. As well, players who are based in Ottawa have access to individual coaching and facility use for further devlopment of their play.