Leading by example on the big stage

Justin Seward
Times Reporter

 

For Kristen Moncks, participating in one of volleyball’s biggest events at the Federation International Sports University (FISU) games earlier this month in Korea is a memory that she will never forget.
It was a dream come true for the young volleyball player, who competed on the international stage and was exposed to a whole new level of volleyball.
Team Canada beat the likes of Thailand and Zimbabwe, but lost to Turkey where they placed second in their pool. They drew Russia in the quarterfinals resulting in a loss, and drew China in the last game where they lost the fifth place game and settled for sixth place.
“It was one of the best finishes that Canada has done for women in this tournament,” said Moncks. “I felt like I learned stuff over there and (it was) probably the best volleyball I’ve played. We played Russia in the quarterfinal and they averaged 6’4″ and won the tournament and killed every team. But it was crazy to play them. These girls towering over you and trying to compete with that, our coaches made us believe that we could.”
After facing a variety of different teams, Moncks added that she played a focused game and helped her teammates out as much as she could.
“Instead of playing for myself, I was being able to lead my team and play for the girls beside me rather than getting in my own head,” said Moncks.
Being housed in the village was a memorable experience, as she felt very welcomed by a Korean culture that was very supportive.
“So happy to help you and at the games even if a Korean team wasn’t playing, they’d pick a team to cheer for,” said Moncks. “The gym was always loud and always people cheering for you.”
Moncks’ former Trinity Western University and Team Canada assistant coach Ryan Hofer thought she found her rhythm as the tournament went on, despite a slow start.
“She struggled to pass, she struggled to find her rhythm,” said Hofer. “Then some things starting clicking for her. She was starting to figure out some serves, figuring out how to pass the ball and I’d say for the majority of the tournament she was very strong for us.”
Hofer admired how well Moncks dealt with the bigger, more physical teams and said this will bode well for her future ambitions in the sport.
“It really kind of confirmed that she has a future internationally,” he said.