Three members of the Trinity Western Spartans men’s volleyball program were instrumental in helping Canada find the podium.
Competing at the U21 Pan Am Cup, the trio of Eric Loeppky, Jesse Elser and Derek Epp helped Canada win bronze in Fort McMurray, Alta. over the weekend.
Canada defeated Guatemala on Sunday in a 3-0 (25-15,25-17,25-19) victory.
Loeppky, who led the entire tournament in scoring with 100 points, had nine kills and three aces to help lead the Canadian contingent to a convincing win over the Guatemalan side. Elser collected eight kills and two blocks, while Epp guided the Canadian offence from the setting position.
The bronze medal win saw Canada bounce back after a four-set loss to Cuba in the semifinals. Loeppky had 18 points in the semifinal, while Elser added eight points.
The Spartans Jacob Kern (Edmonton) was also part of Canada’s entry that finished the tournament with a 4-2 record.
Canada will now prepare for the 2017 FIVB Men’s U21 World Championship, which will be in the Czech Republic from June 23 to July 2.
Brazil earned the Pan Am Cup tournament title after beating Cuba in four sets in the gold medal match.