ACAC Volleyball Convenor, Leigh Goldie, Inducted to Volleyball Alberta 2024 Hall of Fame in the Builder Category
Edmonton, AB (June 22, 2024) - The Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) Volleyball Convenor, Leigh Goldie, has been inducted into the Volleyball Alberta 2024 Hall of Fame in the Builder category. Leigh's lifelong dedication to the sport of volleyball has left an indelible mark on the community in Grande Prairie, Alberta, and across Canada. His tireless efforts have significantly enhanced the profile of volleyball and created opportunities for countless athletes and coaches to develop a lifelong passion for the sport.
Early Beginnings and Path to Volleyball
Leigh Goldie grew up in London, Ontario, where his athletic pursuits were focused on baseball and basketball. He played university basketball, initially at Wilfred Laurier in Waterloo before transferring to the University of Alberta in Edmonton. It was there that he completed his Physical Education degree and met his future wife, Bethe.
Leigh's journey into volleyball began unexpectedly in 1975 when he applied for a teaching position at Grande Prairie Regional College (GPRC). Along with the teaching role, he was asked to coach the Men’s Volleyball team. This opportunity marked the beginning of his lifelong commitment to volleyball. Under the mentorship of Hugh Hoyles and others at the Jasper Volleyball Camp, Leigh quickly honed his coaching skills.
Coaching and Early Achievements
Leigh coached the GPRC Men's Volleyball team from 1975 to 1989, during which he led the team to numerous Provincial medals and earned three ACAC Coach of the Year awards. He also established the Wolves Volleyball Club, which became one of the largest and most successful clubs in Canada, boasting numerous Provincial and National medals.
Leadership and National Contributions
Transitioning from coaching to leadership roles, Leigh's impact on volleyball expanded significantly. He played a pivotal role in GPRC hosting the CCAA Volleyball Nationals for five consecutive years from 1998 to 2002. These events, three for the men and two for the women, are still remembered as some of the best National Championships ever hosted by the CCAA.
Leigh joined the Volleyball Alberta Board of Directors in 1987, eventually becoming Vice President, and served as President from 2006 to 2020. Under his leadership, volleyball in Alberta saw tremendous growth, establishing Volleyball Alberta as a leader in the sport nationwide. Leigh's influence extended to the national level through his involvement with Volleyball Canada, where he contributed significantly to the governance and development of National Championships.
Contributions to Collegiate Volleyball
From 1992 to 2011, Leigh served as the CCAA Men’s Volleyball Convenor, guiding National Championships and shaping the sport at the collegiate level in Canada. He later became Vice President and then President of CCAA programs from 2011 to 2018, further cementing his legacy in collegiate volleyball.
Continuing Influence and Legacy
Since retiring from teaching Physical Education at GPRC after 41 years, Leigh has continued to impact the sport as an advisor at Ambrose University in Calgary and by delivering NCCP Coaching courses for young and developing coaches throughout Alberta. Leigh is the Co-Chair of the Reconciliation, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion committee for the ACAC, and he also serves as the Volleyball Convenor for the ACAC.
Personal Life and Recognition
Balancing his professional commitments with his roles as a husband, father, and grandparent, Leigh Goldie's contributions to volleyball are a testament to his dedication and passion for the sport. His life of commitment and volunteerism in volleyball makes him an exemplary and deserving inductee into the Volleyball Alberta Hall of Fame.
The ACAC is proud to work with Leigh Goldie. He continues to inspire many volleyball athletes and coaches. Congratulations on your induction as a builder to Volleyball Alberta, Leigh!
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About the ACAC: The ACAC is the governing body for intercollegiate athletics in Alberta. Its mission is to provide competitive collegiate sport experiences, promote academic achievement and be a leader of sport development in Canada.
For more information on the ACAC, please visit our website: www.acac.ab.ca
For additional information, contact:
Mark Kosak, Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference
Chief Executive Officer
403-875-7329
markk@acac.ab.ca
Kayla Blacquiere, Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference
Marketing & Communications Coordinator
kaylab@acac.ab.ca