For years, volleyball at Ontario Tech has lived mostly in intramurals: a space for friends, fun and a break from classes.
But starting in the 2027–28 season, volleyball on campus could look very different.
Ontario Tech University is set to introduce men’s and women’s varsity volleyball teams, creating a competitive pathway for students who have never had one on campus.
The addition, approved by Ontario University Athletics (OUA) on March 17, marks the first expansion of Ridgebacks athletics since basketball was introduced in 2018.
The coaching hiring process is already underway, with a coach expected to be in place within the next couple of months. Tryouts are expected to take place ahead of the 2027 OUA season.
Until now, students interested in volleyball have been limited to recreational play, the only option currently available on campus, even as the sport continues to grow in popularity.
“I was actually so happy when I saw it because I know Durham College has a varsity team, and I was actually shocked that Ontario Tech didn’t have any,” said Tamara Villa, a second-year Commerce student who plays intramural volleyball.
On campus, Durham College has offered varsity volleyball for nearly four decades, highlighting the gap Ontario Tech is now working to close.
For Villa, the change represents more than just a new team. It is a shift in what students can expect from athletics at Ontario Tech.
“If you brought varsity volleyball into Ontario Tech, there would be a heightened level of competitiveness,” she said.
That difference is something many students already recognize.
“Intramurals, you’re just doing it to have fun with your friends. But varsity brings that more competitive aspect, like you really want to try and win,” said Tyler Lopez, a fourth-year Mechanical Engineering student.
Lopez said the addition feels overdue, especially given how many students are already playing the sport.
“I feel like it’s about time OnTech finally got a volleyball team,” he said.
While intramurals have helped build a strong volleyball community, students say a varsity program could take that energy further.
With coaching hires underway and tryouts on the horizon, the program is already beginning to take shape.
The teams are expected to begin competition in 2027, but for students already on the court, the impact is starting now.
For the first time, playing volleyball at Ontario Tech may not just be about staying active, it could also be a step toward competing at a higher level.
