VANCOUVER - The Brock University community is cheering on its Badgers as they step into the national spotlight.
 
After multiple practices and video review sessions leading into their first match of the U SPORTS Women's Volleyball Championships, the Badgers took a time out to read a collection of messages of support from Brock alumni.
 
Each student-athlete on the women's volleyball team received a message from a previous member of the team and read them out loud one by one during a team meeting.
 
The Badgers received an outpouring of support from alumni such as Helen Gillespie (1968-69), Cheryl Brandon (2003) and current professional volleyball player Laura Condotta (2015-20).
 
"The alumni support was fantastic. To have people who were at Brock and had graduated before I was even born shows us what this means to the Brock community," said head coach Steve Delaney. "It was a moment to reflect and say what we're doing here is great, but it's bigger than us. We have a responsibility to represent Brock now, the past and the future. We're thankful for their support."
 
The No. 2 Badgers (18-2, 3-0) open the eight-team tournament in British Columbia against the hosts, the No. 7 UBC Thunderbirds (18-6, 0-2), in the quarter-finals on Friday, March 17 at 9 p.m. EST. The game will be livestreamed on CBC Sports.
 
"You've accomplished so much to get to this spot. Something we as alumni could only dream of as we live vicariously through you and your fight to the top of the nation," wrote Lauren Stirling, a setter with Brock from 2011-15. "We're so proud of all you've accomplished and for what's yet to come."
 
The Badgers reached the national championships for a third consecutive season by defeating the Queen's Gaels 3-2 in St. Catharines during a comeback victory at Bob Davis Gymnasium on Saturday, March 11.
 
"Hi ladies. You had my two daughters and myself jumping, cheering, screaming, and finally, crying with joy, as we watched you win gold in the OUA final," wrote Lindsay Shaidle Merker, who played for Brock from 1999-2004. "Just an incredible display of talent, strength, mental toughness and sportswomanship. I can't wait to bring my little future volleyball players to meet their Badger idols. Congratulations and good luck at nationals! Be Proud!"