The Niagara College men's volleyball program is excited to announce the addition of setter Aidan Atkinson, who will join the team for the 2015-16 OCAA season.

Atkinson has enrolled in the Sport Management program after attending Ingersoll District Collegiate Institute, where he was named 2014 Athlete of the Year. 

"I chose Niagara because of its high reputation both on the court and in the classroom," said Atkinson. "It is important, not only to have a great athletic experience, but also an academic one, as your academics will define the rest of your life."

"I'm very excited to welcome Aidan to our program," said head coach Nathan Groenveld.  "We've added another setter to our lineup to keep the level of competition high in practice and to provide Niagara with strength at this position for the future."

A provincial silver medal winner with LVC in 2014, Atkinson is a welcome addition, Groenveld added. 

"As we prepare to defend our OCAA championship, Atkinson will add depth to our roster as an experienced setter who has the ability to run a strong offence.  He has a solid volleyball background and I know he will excel as a student-athlete while playing for the Knights."

Even with the high level of success Atkinson has enjoyed at the junior, club and high-school levels, he continues to set goals for himself.

"I wish to contribute lots of positivity and enthusiasm, and to do my role; whatever that is," said Atkinson. "I am joining an already dominant program, so I will do whatever it takes to contribute to another great season.  I wish to maintain a high academic standing while still learning valuable life skills, and to become involved in student activities on campus."

Atkinson is the third recruit announced by Groenveld this summer, joining Matt Friesen (Gruthal, MB) and Mark Wikkerink (Trenton, ON).

Atkinson and the rest of the Niagara College men's volleyball program will begin the 2015-16 OCAA season with an exhibition game on the road versus the Western Mustangs of the OUA.