Date Posted: April 15, 2011
Print Edition: April 8, 2011
By Paul Esau (Sports Editor) – Email
Name: Peter Van Brederode
Sport: Volleyball
Height: 6’1
Age: 21
Eye Colour: Blue
Where are you from?
Mission, BC. Born and raised.
How did you start playing volleyball?
In Grade 8 I saw there were high school tryouts. I had never played before, but I thought I would give it a try. I was quite terrible – I don’t think I saw any court time until Grade 10.
How did you find your way to UFV?
It was local, affordable, and offered a Bachelor of Business. My high school encouraged students to look at post secondary options. I did and UFV seemed like the best choice.
How long have you played for the UFV men’s volleyball team, and how have you seen the team grow or improve during your time as a part of it?
This is my third and final year. I have years of eligibility left, but I’m graduating and moving on in life. Unfortunately, in the last two years, we have seen a several fifth year players graduate and this year was a bit of a rebuilding year in terms of leadership and character.
What has been your favourite memory as part of the team?
Last year’s trip to San Diego had some great highlights. We played beach volleyball over New Year’s – how awesome is that?
What’s one thing you’ve really appreciated about coach Greg Russell?
His experience and knowledge of the game has helped me learn a lot about the sport and myself.
What is it that has kept you playing volleyball through your university career? What do you love about it?
The teammates, the competition, the drive to succeed. I love working toward a common goal with close friends and being able to dedicate a large part of my life to a sport I enjoy.
What have you most appreciated about being a part of the UFV community?
It’s tight knit, everyone seems to know each other and it’s usually a fun time.
In one sentence, what is the most important piece of advice you have for students of UFV?
Take school seriously, what you accomplish here lays the foundation for future success.
And finally, where are you going from here?
I’m graduating with my BBA in a few weeks and getting married this Fall. I will be working fulltime as a marketing coordinator and I hope to attend grad school for my MBA in a couple years.
