In 1984 there was no senior boy’s volleyball tournament in Saskatoon. There was a need for one, so in the fall of 1985 Mustang Volley for boys was started. The first, and only, boys Mustang Volley tournament was won by Vanguard, SK.

In 1985 Mount Royal Collegiate had a rich 14-year history with its girl’s tournament, Mount Royal Invitational Tournament, known as MRIT, which was initiated by Carol Howlett. The administration at Mount Royal commented that running two tournaments in a season, both boys and girls, was too taxing on students and staff. They suggested an amalgamation.

In 1986, the first 3-day tournament, with 24 combined teams of boys and girls was held. The intent was to develop a high-level interprovincial tournament. The newly designed tournament carried the Mustang Volley name.

The longevity of Mustang Volley has been due to the support of the school administration, and the hard work and commitment of the tournament chairs and staff. Another key element has been the dedication, support, and countless hours of volunteerism from thousands of students over the years. They have provided a prime showcase for athletes and officials.

The success of Mustang Volley Tournaments was elevated by:

• The coverage of high school volleyball by Bob Florence and Dave Deibert at the then Star Phoenix. This coverage was supported by Bob Strumm, Sports Editor at the time.
• Television coverage of the tournaments by CTV, Global and Shaw.
• Local radio support from CJWW, C95 and CBC.

Personal Success I recall proudly:

• The tournament becoming the showcase of high school volleyball in Saskatchewan.
• The Mount Royal boys winning Mustang Volley in 1987.
• The setter and captain of that Mount Royal Boys team, Adam Ewart, continuing in volleyball as a high school and club coach, a provincial team coach, a Canadian Intercollegiate Sports coach, and a provincial and national champion coach. In addition, Adam, along with Kerry Alcorn, became the voice of the Mustang Volley finals on Shaw TV.
• My daughters, Tara, and Laura, be Mustang Volley all stars in 2001 through 2004 and tournament champions in 2002 and 2003.
• The Mount Royal senior girls win the MRIT title in 1979 and the Mustang Volley title in 1994.
• The tournament continuing after my retirement.

Unbeatable Occurrence

• Sarah Bury and Laura Cote were both contributing members of the Aden Bowman senior Bears volley team all four years of their high school (2001-2004). They were senior girls Saskatoon city champions all four years; a task, like a perfect game in baseball, which can be equalled but never beaten. Both Sarah and Laura received scholarships to play NCAA Division 1 volleyball with the University of Memphis Tigers in Conference USA.

Early Tradition

• On the Saturday night after play finished and clean up was done, many of the staff involved in the tournament would go to the Mediterranean Inn (one of our sponsors) on 33rd St. for a post tournament meal.

Thank You

To all the administrators, tournament committee members, student volunteers, coaches, athletes, and spectators who have built Mustang Volley as a Mount Royal Collegiate Legacy.