My name is McKenna Sowunmi, and I am entering Grade 10 at Holy Trinity Catholic Secondary School in Courtice, Ontario.
This past school year, I earned a spot on the senior girls’ volleyball team as a junior, competing as both a middle and outside hitter. Our team advanced all the way to the LOSSA Finals, where we finished as silver medalists after an exciting five-set match that came down to a 15–14 final set. I was also a member of the school’s track and field team, where I received the Coaches’ Choice Award. Sprinting is another passion of mine, and I specialize in the 100-metre sprint.
I am entering my fourth season of competitive volleyball as an outside hitter. I began my club career with Durham Attack’s Tier 1 13U team despite having no previous volleyball experience. Through hard work and determination, I earned the team’s MVP award in my first season. I then joined Durham Rebels Rogue, where I completed two successful Tier 1 seasons and was honored with the Ontario Volleyball Association (OVA) Award of Excellence.
What I love most about volleyball is the competitiveness, the intensity, and the adrenaline that every match brings. I pride myself on my volleyball IQ, court awareness, and quick movement, and I am committed to improving every aspect of my game each season.
I come from a proud Nigerian and Portuguese family. My mother is Canadian Portuguese, and my father is Nigerian Canadian. I have two brothers who have been incredible role models throughout my life.
My older brother, Malachi, has played football for the past nine years and has always been my biggest protector. My younger brother, Maddox, has played competitive soccer for the past five years. Both of my brothers have amazing personalities and can make anyone laugh while bringing positive energy wherever they go.
My parents have been my greatest supporters throughout my volleyball journey. Whether it’s driving me to multiple practices each week, waking up early for tournaments, taking me to extra training sessions, or cheering from the sidelines, they have always believed in me. Their encouragement and sacrifices have played a huge role in helping me become the athlete and person I am today.
My goal is to continue developing into the best all-around athlete I can be while competing at the highest level possible. I hope to earn a volleyball scholarship to a university in the United States, where I can continue pursuing both my athletic and academic goals.
Beyond volleyball, I aspire to become an anesthesiologist. Science has always fascinated me, and I am passionate about helping others and making a meaningful impact on people’s lives through medicine.
When I’m not training or competing, you’ll usually find me listening to music and singing my heart out. One day, I also hope to achieve my dream of playing professional volleyball and representing my family, coaches, teammates, and community at the highest level of the sport.
McKenna's journey in volleyball is a testament to her resilience, ambition, and talent. She remains committed to achieving her dream of becoming a professional volleyball player, inspiring those around her with her determination and passion.
