Keyano Volleyball proves to be Huskies Strong

 Keyano Volleyball proves to be Huskies Strong and gives back to the community 

Members of the Keyano Huskies Men’s and Women’s Volleyball teams rallied around the community by raising money for the Fort McMurray Food Bank after the 2020 flood. 

Following the devastating effects of last year’s river breakup which left all athletic teams without their training facility and many students having to be evacuated from student housing, the Volleyball teams decided to do something positive to support their community. 

A temporary online store was set up to sell Huskies Strong merchandise to the community with 100% of the proceeds donated back to the community. The store raised over $350 in just over three months with many items selling out. 

Keegan Kuhr, Keyano Huskies men’s volleyball coach said, “We wanted to make sure that the money raised, would give the maximum impact. The food bank isn’t just another local charity, it’s a vital community resource and many of our own students have used their service. Especially during these times, we felt it was so important that we show our support. The team members who organized were amazing, it all came from a place of wanting to help and wanting to make a difference in the community.” 

“This genuine act of kindness focused at the people of Wood Buffalo who need and use the Food Bank is yet another example of how student athletes at Keyano College strive to positively impact our community. I could not be more proud of these young men and women who gave up their own time over the summer to coordinate and execute this initiative,” said Jonathan Lambert, Director, Athletics and Recreation. “These student athletes exemplify what being a Keyano Huskies is all about; in the classroom, on the court, and as can be seen here, in our community.” 

As part of the Keyano College commitment to our students, the executive have donated matching dollars to our Student Food Bank. Fred Russell, VP Academic said, “We know some of our students depend on both the Fort McMurray Food Bank and our own internal food bank. The fact that the volleyball teams have been so generous, we have decided to match their dollars for our student food bank.” 

The College itself sustained millions of dollars’ worth of damage during the flood, with the Syncrude Sport and Wellness Centre, home of the Husky Athletics being hit particularly hard. The Syncrude Sport and Wellness Centre has since had the hardwood, which was completely destroyed in the flood, replaced in time for the 2021 season. 

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