Eden’s Doyle chooses Western
It was an easy choice for Kaitlyn Doyle to pick Western as the destination of her post secondary volleyball career.
“One of the biggest draws was the team atmosphere. Going there and experiencing what the team is like it reminded me a lot of my club team and how it is really cohesive and seems kind of like a family. It was something I was looking for,” said the travel player with the Smash Raiders Volleyball Club in Hamilton. “And then it was the school itself. It’s programs for health sciences are amazing and that is what is I am going into. I am really looking forward to that.”
She is hoping to one day become either a science teacher or doctor and is ready for the rigours of being a student/athlete.
“I am pretty good with time management and it is making sure I am on top of everything.”
The Grade 12 student at Eden has been playing club volleyball since she was 10 years old. She started playing at an age level up but now competes in her own age group. The left-side hitter was a member of a Smash Raiders team that finished sixth in Ontario in 2022-23.
Her game has progressed quite a bit in the past year.
“On the defensive side, I have gotten a lot stronger and consistent and on the offensive side I have always been a strong pin hitter so I have just continued on with that. As for leadership, it is learning how to be a leader in different ways. I am a pretty vocal person but how to be a leader when you don’t have to be as loud is something that I have learned this year.”
She knows there is still work to do.
“I want to go there and continue to be a leader. As for physical things, it is working on the small technical stuff that can bring my game up to the next level.”
She has one specific goal in mind for her first year at Western.
“My biggest goal is just to make an impact on my teammates in a positive way. It could be physical or it could be emotional support. It is going in and making a difference.”
She feels there is plenty of chances to play at Western.
“I feel there is equal opportunity to earn a spot,” Doyle said. “I just have to continue with my game and show them all that I have.”
She is already preparing for her freshman season of Ontario University Athletics action.
“I will be doing lots of cardio and some light weight training and then also I will try and get in the gym once a week and work on some touches and technical stuff.”
Doyle can’t wait to get started.
“It is meeting new people and the whole university atmosphere.”
Wherever the sports takes her it will be a labour of love.
“I really love the competitive atmosphere and how when you are on your own side, you are always with your own teammates and not mixed with opponents. You can really bring on your own team atmosphere and culture on the one side of the court.”
It was an easy choice for Kaitlyn Doyle to pick Western as the destination of her post secondary volleyball career.
“One of the biggest draws was the team atmosphere. Going there and experiencing what the team is like it reminded me a lot of my club team and how it is really cohesive and seems kind of like a family. It was something I was looking for,” said the travel player with the Smash Raiders Volleyball Club in Hamilton. “And then it was the school itself. It’s programs for health sciences are amazing and that is what is I am going into. I am really looking forward to that.”
She is hoping to one day become either a science teacher or doctor and is ready for the rigours of being a student/athlete.
“I am pretty good with time management and it is making sure I am on top of everything.”
The Grade 12 student at Eden has been playing club volleyball since she was 10 years old. She started playing at an age level up but now competes in her own age group. The left-side hitter was a member of a Smash Raiders team that finished sixth in Ontario in 2022-23.
Her game has progressed quite a bit in the past year.
“On the defensive side, I have gotten a lot stronger and consistent and on the offensive side I have always been a strong pin hitter so I have just continued on with that. As for leadership, it is learning how to be a leader in different ways. I am a pretty vocal person but how to be a leader when you don’t have to be as loud is something that I have learned this year.”
She knows there is still work to do.
“I want to go there and continue to be a leader. As for physical things, it is working on the small technical stuff that can bring my game up to the next level.”
She has one specific goal in mind for her first year at Western.
“My biggest goal is just to make an impact on my teammates in a positive way. It could be physical or it could be emotional support. It is going in and making a difference.”
She feels there is plenty of chances to play at Western.
“I feel there is equal opportunity to earn a spot,” Doyle said. “I just have to continue with my game and show them all that I have.”
She is already preparing for her freshman season of Ontario University Athletics action.
“I will be doing lots of cardio and some light weight training and then also I will try and get in the gym once a week and work on some touches and technical stuff.”
Doyle can’t wait to get started.
“It is meeting new people and the whole university atmosphere.”
Wherever the sports takes her it will be a labour of love.
“I really love the competitive atmosphere and how when you are on your own side, you are always with your own teammates and not mixed with opponents. You can really bring on your own team atmosphere and culture on the one side of the the court.”
Eden coach Bill Markham will miss Doyle, who has been an integral part of the Flyers’ success with her extraordinary volleyball skills and high IQ for the game.
“Kaity’s ability to serve aces, deliver powerful kills, and dig practically anything that comes her way made her a truly exceptional player. It was a joy to witness her on the court, leaving a lasting impact with her remarkable talent.”
Doyle’s contributions extended beyond her individual performance.
“She exemplified true leadership, setting a standard for her teammates to aspire to and follow both on and off the court. Kaity displayed empathy and understanding towards her fellow teammates, fostering a supportive and encouraging team environment. Her dedication to continuous learning and self-improvement was also admirable,” he said. “Rather than focusing solely on her strengths, she consistently sought to enhance every aspect of her game, always striving for excellence and aiming to bring success to her team.”
Markham describes Doyle as an exceptional human being. “Her character and values make her an invaluable asset to any team, organization, or person fortunate enough to call her a friend. Kaity’s impact will undoubtedly extend far beyond the realm of sports.”
