Local athlete commits to hometown team

Courtesy: BU Bobcats

BRANDON – Continuing the trend of Brandon players to make the transition from high school to the next level, yet another stand-out has signed a letter of intent to play for her hometown Bobcats.

Shayla Heinrichs of Brandon's Vincent Massey High School has committed to play for the Bobcats women's volleyball team beginning next season.

Heinrichs, a 5-foot-8 outside hitter, has made a name for herself in the Manitoba high school and club volleyball scene for her athleticism and ability. The opportunity to stay and play for her hometown team is something she is excited for.

"Growing up here in Brandon and seeing first-hand the strong volleyball program BU has definitely helped make my decision," says Heinrichs. "It's always been a dream of mine to play CIS volleyball and I feel very fortunate to play in my hometown."

On top of being a stand-out with the Vincent Massey Vikings, Heinrichs is also a product of the Cats Volleyball Club, which is based out of BU.

Heinrichs is used to playing on a big stage. Entering the season, she was ranked #8 in the Winnipeg Sun pre-season coaches poll. She closed the season in the playoffs, leading the Vikings to an AAAA semi-final appearance this past season thanks to a massive 20 kill, 20 dig performance in the quarterfinals. For her efforts she was named to the all-Manitoba team and a Volleyball Manitoba graduating all-star this past season.

"Having a local athlete with such great ability and skill gives us excitement knowing that she wants to play for her hometown team," says Bobcats coach Lee Carter. "She is an incredibly dynamic athlete. She moves extremely well, reads the game, and we've enjoyed watching her develop as a volleyball player over the years. The fact that she wants to stay here in Brandon to train, play volleyball and study is great news and we look forward to having her join our team."

Heinrichs was also named Manitoba High Schools Athletic Association (MHSAA) Athlete of the Week this past October for her efforts in both volleyball and basketball.

She plans to enroll in Brandon University's Bachelor of Physical Education Studies program.