April 7, 2022: Volleyball Canada is proud to announce the 2022 Hall of Fame inductees, Kristine Drakich (Coach) and Michel Paiement (Builder).

“We are thrilled to once again be able to gather in-person and celebrate the addition of two distinguished inductees into the Volleyball Canada Hall of Fame,” said Marlene Hoffman, chair of Volleyball Canada’s Alumni & Awards Committee. “The lifetime of contributions from Kristine and Michel have helped shape the sport into what it is today. I’m honoured to recognize their volleyball journeys and welcome them into the Hall of Fame.”

Kristine Drakich has been the head coach of the University of Toronto Varsity Blues women’s volleyball team for 33 years, leading them to 11 OUA Championships and a U SPORTS National Title. A former national team athlete, she’s a strong advocate for gender equity and has inspired a generation of female coaches.

Quebec native Michel Paiement was the Technical Director for Volleyball Canada for over 15 years from the mid-1980s to the early 2000s. He was also the head coach of the University of Moncton’s men’s volleyball team and worked with the FIVB as an instructor. He was known within the volleyball community as a strong leader and as a visionary.

In addition to recognizing the two 2022 inductees, Volleyball Canada is excited to also be celebrating the class of 2020 in-person. Due to the pandemic, Theresa Maxwell (Builder), Kathy Tough (Athlete), John Barrett (Athlete), and Brad Barton (Referee) were honoured virtually in 2021.

“We would like to thank Theresa, Kathy, John, and Brad for their patience and understanding over the past two years,” said Hoffman. “We are eager to celebrate with them in person, once again recognizing the impact they’ve had on the volleyball community throughout their careers.”

The 2022 Hall of Fame ceremony will take place at the Ottawa Marriott Hotel on June 9, 2022, at 8:00 pm. Please contact Lucie Leclerc (lucie@volleyball.ca) to purchase tickets to the ceremony ($20 each).

This year’s Hall of Fame ceremony is presented by Nothers the Award Store, official provider to Volleyball Canada.

Volleyball Canada media contact
Jackie Skender
Mobile: 613.794.7676