The Niagara College Department of Athletics & Recreation formally welcomed Cole Palma to the Men's Volleyball Program with a media event held Thursday evening at the Welland Campus Athletic Centre. Palma enjoyed a standout high school and club volleyball playing career with Bill Crothers Secondary School and the Durham Attack 18U volleyball teams.

"I'm very excited to play volleyball at Niagara College" said Palma. "There is a very fun and welcoming atmosphere at the school, and I'm looking forward to representing the college the best way I can."

Palma stands at six-foot-two and plays the outside hitter position. Niagara College Men's Volleyball Head Coach Nathan Groenveld feels Palma will be a key addition to the Knights roster moving forward. "Cole is a very physical and technically sound player. The level of coaching he has received at both the high school and club level will allow him to step into our program and contribute right away."

The native of Ashburn, Ontario has excelled at both the individual and team levels throughout his career. Two seasons ago he was named team MVP of a strong Durham Attack U16 program, and in 2012 Palma saw his Bill Crothers Secondary School team win the OFSAA 'AAAA' Championship. Palma was also a key member of the 2012-13 Durham Attack U18 squad that finished fifth at the National Championship.

Palma visited Niagara College to sign a letter of acceptance and scholarship offer to play for the Men's Volleyball Program, and Niagara College Intercollegiate Coordinator Ray Sarkis commented "Cole is a dominating leftside player, and I believe his addition will make an immediate impact on the court, and will help grow the program into one of the best in the OCAA and CCAA."

During his time at Niagara College Palma will be enrolled in the Welding Techniques program, and academics proved to be a determining factor in the 18 year old's decision to attend the school. "One of the main reasons I chose Niagara was the academics. The Welding Techniques program that I am entering is one of the best in the country, and one of the few that offers a full diploma."

When asked about his on-court goals during his playing career, Palma said "I want to improve and be best player I can be. I want to contribute to the team as much as possible by being the best teammate I can, and by working hard and giving 110%."

Coach Groenveld continued "a student-athlete of Cole's character and skill level is something any coach looks for. He's an all-around good person and will be a valuable addition to our program."

The Niagara College Men's Volleyball Program will resume formal activities this summer when the team leads two sections of the annual Niagara Kids' College summer camp program.

For more information please contact:

Mike Puillandre
Niagara College, Athletics & Recreation
905-735-2211 ex: 7681
mpuillandre@niagaracollege.ca