The NAIT Ooks Men's Volleyball Team is primed for the challenge as they head into the ACAC Championship hosted by Olds College from February 22 to 24. Finishing the season in an impressive 2nd place in the ACAC North Division, the Ooks are set to face off against the 3rd place in the south, the Lethbridge Kodiaks, in their opening game at 1 PM on Thursday, February 22nd.

Head Coach Phil Dixon exudes confidence as he assesses his team's readiness for the Championship: "The guys have been putting in the work in both the gym and on the court, and the coaching staff believes they are prepared physically, mentally, and emotionally for this tournament. Now it's time to execute and leave everything out on the court."

With a strong lineup and players hitting their stride, Coach Dixon emphasizes the team's collective effort: "The team has a bunch of players that have been playing well in our last ten matches (eight wins, two losses since the Christmas break). Our five 5th-year players know that this is their time to shine, so fans should keep their eyes on them as we battle this weekend."

Playing at Olds College adds an intriguing dimension to the championship quest. Coach Dixon is optimistic about the venue: "Olds is a great facility to play in, with a high roof and spacious venue - feels like a Usports facility with bleachers on both sides. And yes, it was great that Ryan (Olds College Coach) was gracious enough to host that tournament over the Christmas break to help us get prepared for the 2nd semester and ultimately play this weekend in the Championship hosted by Olds."

As the team gears up for the Championship showdown, Coach Dixon expresses his excitement for the competition: "Excited for the team to compete this weekend and play against some of the best college teams in the country. Klar til kamp! (Danish for 'Ready to battle')"

The stage is set, the players are ready, and the NAIT Ooks Men's Volleyball Team is poised to bring their A-game to the ACAC Championship. The winning ACAC team will move on to compete at the CCAA Men's Volleyball National Championship hosted by Camosun College in Victoria, BC, from March 7 to 10. Catch the action in person at Olds College or tune in online on ACACTV or Telus Optik TV Channel 1998.