1981-1989 Red Deer College Queens
Between 1981 and 1989, the Red Deer College (RDC) Queens Volleyball Team established an unprecedented legacy in Canadian collegiate sports. Under the guidance of head coach Cor Ouwerkerk, the Queens became the most dominant team in the history of the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) women's volleyball, achieving feats that remain unparalleled.
Provincial Dominance
The Queens clinched eight consecutive ACAC championships from the 1981–82 season through the 1988–89 season. During this remarkable run:
- Regular Season Record: 178 wins and only 5 losses.
- Undefeated Seasons: Three perfect seasons in 1981–82 (21–0), 1987–88 (18–0), and 1988–89 (18–0).
- Winning Streaks:
- 90 consecutive sets won, showcasing their dominance on the court.
- 61-match winning streak, further cementing their legacy.
No other women's team in ACAC history has won more than two consecutive championships, highlighting the exceptional nature of the Queens' achievements.
National Achievements
On the national stage, the Queens were equally formidable in the Canadian Colleges Athletic Association (CCAA) championships:
- Gold Medal:
- 1984: Their victory was historic, marking the first time a team outside of Quebec won the national championship, breaking a six-year Quebec winning streak.
- Silver Medals:
- 1982, 1983, 1985, 1986, 1989: Demonstrating consistent excellence at the highest level.
- Bronze Medals:
- 1987, 1988: Showcasing their ability to remain competitive nationally throughout the decade.
The 1984 championship was particularly notable as the Queens defeated St. Francis Xavier Garneau 3–1 in the final, finishing the season with an outstanding 34–1 overall record. Quebec teams dominated the CCAA championships, winning 28 of 29 titles during that era, with RDC being the sole team from outside Quebec to claim the gold.
Individual Recognition
The Queens' success was a collective effort, bolstered by remarkable individual talents:
- Coach Accolades:
- Cor Ouwerkerk was named ACAC Coach of the Year for the 1987–88 season.
- All-Canadians:
- 1984–85: Dorine Doucette and Georgina Fullerton received national recognition.
- 1986–87: Tricia Turner was honored.
- 1988–89: Fiona Moffatt earned the distinction.
- All-Conference Honors:
- 24 players were named to the ACAC All-Conference teams over the eight-year span, reflecting the depth of talent on the roster.
International Engagement
The Queens expanded their influence internationally through an exchange program with Hokkaido Women's College in Sapporo, Japan. This cultural and athletic exchange included mutual visits and competitions, enhancing the team's global perspective and exposure. The Queens were warmly received in Japan, engaging with fans, signing autographs, and serving as ambassadors for Canadian collegiate volleyball.
Legacy and Impact
Renowned for their talent, sportsmanship, and relentless competitiveness, the Queens were celebrated across Canada and respected by opponents nationwide. Coaches from Quebec and other provinces consistently praised the team for their high level of play and professionalism. Their remarkable achievements elevated the profile of women's collegiate volleyball in Alberta and set a standard of excellence that inspired future generations.
Their dominance is a testament to exceptional coaching, dedicated athletes, and a cohesive team culture. The RDC Queens Volleyball Team's legacy from 1981 to 1989 remains a benchmark in collegiate sports, exemplifying what can be achieved with passion, perseverance, and teamwork.
1981- 1989 Red Deer College Queens Volleyball Team Roster
Rocky Banky (M), Bonnie Benedict, Colleen Bowers, Karen Branigan (AC), Shelly Brewster, Shawn Bryan, Melanie Burdick, Leasa Cheney, Lori Cherniak, Laura-Lee Christiansen, Reen Cole, Donna Cook, Yvonne Davidson, Bonny Dearing, Patty deBeaudrap (M), Dorine Doucette, Karen Faubert, Jodie Fisher, Tammy Fostey, Rinky Frere, Georgia Fullerton, Liz Gallion, Lorrain Gaudin (M), Nancy Gibson, Holly Grisbrook, Mike Harnett, Chuck Hubert (AC), Debbie Hergot, Frances Hermanson, Doug Herman (AC), Holly Higginson, Howarth Joyce, Lori Johnstone, Karen Johnston, Val Krook, Joan Kubinec, Daine Lalor, Verna Lewis, Lisa Love, Julie Lundie, Heather MacDonald, Bernice MacKinnon, Fiona Moffat, Kesia Newton, Patricia Ostrup, Nicole Ouelette, Cor Ouwerkerk (C), Mona Palfreyman, Debbie Read, Darlene Ries, Susan Riopel, Patricia Robertson, Christine Rowland, Cheryle Rowland, Roni Shapka, Brenda Shavchook, Cathy Stang, Jody Strate, Jo-Marie Tarapacki, Tricia Turner, Kim Tuttle, Michelle Vermunt, Brande White (AC), Kelly Whitford
