Road Runners Show Heart as BCHS Hosts 2A Boys’ Zones Tournament

Photo: Bonnyville Centralized High School 

Bonnyville Centralized High School welcomed teams from across northeast Alberta for the 2A boys’ zone volleyball championships, giving the Road Runners a chance to battle on home court after a season that was anything but typical. Despite entering the tournament ranked ninth and facing more hurdles than most teams see in a year, BCHS turned heads with their resilience.

A Tough Season, a Strong Effort

The Road Runners opened day one with a promising 2–1 record, setting themselves up for a competitive run. They carried that fight into day two, taking a three-set win over Vegreville to secure third in their pool. Their journey ended in the quarterfinals, but given the circumstances, the result reflected far more than a final score.

This season tested the Road Runners in every possible way. A school lockout disrupted normal play, cost the team three returning athletes and left their lone Grade 12 sidelined with a broken leg. With limited game opportunities and only a handful of scrimmages under their belt, the roster became a blend of seasoned players and very young talent, including a 13-year-old competing on the senior squad.

Young Players Step Up

Freshmen players played a key role at zones, stepping into senior-level competition with composure and skill. With four first-year athletes among the nine starters, BCHS relied on youthful energy and quick learning to stay competitive. They held their own against older, more experienced teams in a sport that can struggle to draw interest in a community known for football and hockey.

Despite the challenges, the Road Runners’ grit was clear. Their ability to stay competitive, adapt on the fly and support one another through an unpredictable season showed the depth of potential within the program.

Looking Ahead

Although BCHS won’t be moving on, the experience was valuable. Hosting zones brought pride to the school, highlighted the talent already in the gym and showed younger players what high-level competition looks like. With more students encouraged to give volleyball a try, the Road Runners hope to build on this foundation next season.

St. Jerome’s High School of Vermilion claimed the 2A boys’ title and earned the right to advance to provincials, but BCHS leaves zones with something just as important: belief in what comes next.