UCC’s athletic program is celebrating an incredible season, with both the Senior Boys Basketball and Senior Girls Volleyball teams earning spots at the AAA OFSAA Championships. Their success is a testament to the dedication, perseverance, and teamwork displayed by coaches and athletes alike.
Lisa Harnarine, Principal of UCC, expressed her immense pride in the teams’ achievements. “The incredible success of our athletic teams is a direct reflection of the commitment, discipline, and passion our students bring to both their sports and their studies. We are so proud to see all their hard work pay off.”
The Senior Boys Basketball team is making its return to OFSAA. With a 34-8 overall record and just one returning player from the 2023 silver medal squad, the Lancers have developed a strong team identity through intense competition. They competed in eight tournaments across the province, including the Chatham Sports Hall of Fame event, and dominated league play with a perfect 10-0 record, securing their third consecutive LKSSAA Championship. Now, they set their sights on Kingston, where they will face Ontario’s best from March 3-5.
Head coach Jim Dunlop praised the team’s resilience and growth. “This season has been about learning and trusting each other. With so many new players stepping up, we’ve had to adapt quickly. It’s been amazing to see their progress, and I couldn’t be prouder as we take on this challenge at OFSAA.”
The Senior Girls Volleyball team has delivered a season to remember, earning their OFSAA berth after a thrilling SWOSSAA final victory over Windsor Holy Names. In a 3-1 battle (25-23, 25-14, 18-25, 25-20) on February 20, the Lancers avenged an early-season loss to the Knights, a pivotal moment that led to a defensive overhaul and an undefeated run heading into 2025. With an outstanding 43-3-2 match record, UCC has dominated championship play, winning titles at Ursuline’s Annual Alumni Night, Fanshawe’s Vaughn Peckham Memorial, CKSS’s Chatham Sports Hall of Fame tournament, the University of Toronto Schools Tournament, and the LKSSAA and SWOSSAA Championships. They are now preparing to take on the province at OFSAA in Burlington from March 3-5.
Coach Jeff Phaneuf highlighted the team’s determination. “Early in the season, we faced a tough loss that forced us to rethink our approach. Instead of backing down, the players responded with incredible focus and teamwork. Their commitment to improvement has been inspiring, and I know they’re ready to compete at the highest level.”
Congratulations to both teams on their outstanding achievements. The UCC community is cheering you on as you take the next step at OFSAA. Go Lancers!