Brooke Peterson, a former Weyburn resident, won the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) athlete of the week award for Jan. 2 to 8.Brooke had an outstanding performance on both defense and serving, helping the Clippers take two wins on the road against the Lethbridge Kodiaks during that week.
"My success was a result not only of my play, but the whole team," said Peterson. "Our two wins against Lethbridge played a huge part in the team getting recognized. My service-receive was really on, and that helped me earn recognition."
Peterson is a second-year libero and leads the league with 204 digs. She added to that total with 29 more during the Jan. 6 to 7 weekend in just seven sets of action. Not only did Brooke help shut down the Lethbridge attack, but was the key reason for their success on offense as she had a passing average of 2.45 with 70 per cent three passes.
Brooke is in her second year of a BA in business administration at Briercrest College. She is the daughter of Lowell and Darla Peterson.Playing at the college level means a lot more "mental pressure," said Peterson. She feels that her rookie year with the team helped develop important skills on the court. "That year of experience has helped me be a better player."
Initially, the coach from Briercrest had noticed Brooke during her club volleyball games, played in Weyburn. "I was asked to join the team, but at that time I wanted to take a year at the Bible college in Regina. I loved the sport, but felt that the year off would be worth it."
The libero spot on the Clippers was filled by another player. When Brooke completed her year in Regina, she was ready to compete at the college level. "The girl who had the libero spot was no longer there, so the spot was still there for me. I felt so fortunate for the spot, even after I first said no, and felt that it was meant to be."
Brooke enjoys her time at Briercrest, and playing for the Clippers. "The school is wonderful when compared to other schools, students here are encouraged to grow in our education mentally, physically and spiritually. All my teammates are so loving and supportive."
There are 14 women's volleyball teams in the ACAC league, including the Briercrest Clippers. The ACAC championships will be played Feb. 24 to 26 at Medicine Hat College.
The winner of the championships advance to the Canadian Colleges Athletic Conference (CCAA) championships, being hosted on Vancouver Island, B.C., from Mar. 8 to 12.
