Volleyball inspiration runs in the family

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 26/02/2025 (265 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Valecia Elizabeth Rose Ribeiro is a 12-year-old, Grade 8 student at Oak Bluff Community School who really enjoys sports. She plays both volleyball and basketball – but she definitely has a favourite.

“The sport I am most focused on is definitely volleyball,” Valecia says. “I became interested in volleyball because of my older sister. She is a great inspiration and I look up to her. She played for her school team, a club team, and Team Manitoba all through junior high and high school.

“I enjoy volleyball mostly because of the different camps I attend, the new friends I get to meet, and it’s a sport that can be played all year round,” she says. “I am currently learning all positions on the court, but the positions I like the most are right-side hitter and left-side hitter because it gives the element of surprise. All of the coaches I have had so far have been amazing. They keep us motivated and really work with dedication, helping us learn the skills and the drills.

“My teammates are great. Each one brings a different strength and we all help keep a positive attitude.”

Valecia lives in the southwest part of the city with her dad Carlos, mom Lori, three sisters and one brother – Felicity, Athena, Victoria, and Romeo.

“I want to say thank you to my parents for always believing in me and motivating me to always just try my best,” she says.

Valecia’s plan for next year is to keep attending more camps and learning more about the game she loves.

“I am going to give it my all, do my best to stay focused and have fun. My ultimate dream is to get a scholarship to university with volleyball and make it to the Olympics.”

Valecia is working hard to reach her goals and dreams and has a great family circle to give her lots of love and support. She has this to offer other athletes:

“Never back down and never give up.”