Carolyn O'Dwyer on Winning with the Pandas and Coaching on Canada’s National Team

Carolyn O'Dwyer shares her incredible volleyball journey from discovering the sport in Calgary to playing at Mount Royal University, becoming head coach of the University of Alberta Pandas, winning a championship, and joining Volleyball Canada's senior women's national team staff.

In this in-depth conversation, Carolyn discusses her development as an athlete, the importance of club volleyball, the transition from player to coach, and the lessons she learned working under legendary Alberta coach Laurie Eisler. She also shares what it was like to receive the call to join Giovanni Guidetti’s coaching staff and what she has learned from one of the most respected coaches in international volleyball.

We also dive into:

Winning a championship with the Alberta PandasCoaching in Volleyball Canada’s Next Gen programThe experience of the FIVB Volleyball Nations LeagueHow Canada is progressing on the world stageDifferences between U SPORTS and NCAA volleyballRecruiting and retaining top Canadian athletesWhat Carolyn looks for in recruits beyond volleyball skillsMental toughness, resetting, and reading body languageWhich volleyball position is the toughest to playFun off-court topics, including pineapple pizza and who should be interviewed next

Whether you're a player, coach, recruiter, or volleyball fan, Carolyn offers tremendous insight into athlete development, leadership, and what it takes to build a championship culture.