Brett Walsh Sets His Sights on a Volleyball Career

Calgary volleyball all-star Brett Walsh talks about his love of the sport, and the importance of balancing work and play.

To say that grade 12 student athlete Brett Walsh is highly devoted to the sport of volleyball would be an understatement. He plays for his high school, Dr. E.P. Scarlett in Calgary, the Canuck Stuff Volleyball Club, Alberta’s provincial team and the youth national team. The 6'5" setter is an accomplished athlete who has competed against some of the best young volleyball players in the world. Although not all young athletes grasp the importance of balancing their sport with school, Walsh knows that getting a good education is far more beneficial in the long run, which makes this young man even more impressive. After returning from the Canada Summer Games, Walsh took some time to share his thoughts on the sport he loves.

YT: What do you love about volleyball?

BW: I like the technical aspect of the sport, how each skill is so precise and must be performed with such finesse. I also love the tactical side of the game, figuring out how to beat your opponent.


YT: Which of your accomplishments stick out?

BW: I’ve been named an all-star at multiple provincial championships and was named to the all-star team at the US Junior Olympics in 2010 as well as the National Team Challenge Cup in 2011.


YT: What are some of your favourite memories so far in your volleyball career?

BW: Winning the Western Canada Games this summer is definitely one of my favourite memories of my volleyball career as well as competing on the youth national team last April in the NORCECA championships playing against the best young players in the world.


YT: What qualities do you bring to the court when you play?

BW: I bring confidence and stability to the teams I am on, as I am a well-rounded player that my teammates can depend on.


YT: Any embarrassing moments you’ve had on the court?

BW: I was playing a match at the volleydome in Calgary and tossed the ball up for a spike serve. The back of my shoe got caught in the netting behind the court and I fell forward and the ball landed, giving the point to the other team.


YT: Who has helped you grow as a player?

BW: My high-school coach Jossann MacKenzie-Drolet has been a great mentor for me. She has helped me with my skills as well as balancing my life. She is a great friend and a great coach. All of my high-school teachers have been very flexible and cooperative with my schedule. 


YT: Best advice you’ve received and would share with other athletes?

BW: Keep balance in your life between your athletics, schooling, family, friends and relationships. And most importantly, take pride in your academics, as life goes on long after your sports career is over.


YT: Future goals?

BW: I’m in the process of deciding which university I will be playing volleyball at, and after my university career I hope to play for the national team and professionally overseas.


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