Ramier Named ACAA Rookie of the Year, Gauthier Named All-Conference
(Fredericton, NB) The University of New Brunswick Saint John Seawolves men’s volleyball team took home two awards during Friday night’s Atlantic Collegiate Athletics Association’s volleyball awards banquet.
Adam Gauthier (Regina, SK) was named an ACAA 1st Team All Conference for the second time in his three-year career with the Seawolves, while rookie Jackson Ramier (Fredericton, NB) was named the league’s Rookie of the Year.
Gauthier set a new career high in kills this season, finishing with 217, good enough for 4th in the ACAA, while also be an integral piece of the Seawolves serve receive, leading the league in serve receptions with 429 on the year. The 4th year left side has been named to two ACAA All Conference teams in his three years with the Seawolves.
“Adam wrapped up the season with 217 kills and turned into one of our go‑to leaders,” said head coach, Dino Karatzios. “He averaged 3.4 points per set and always seemed to deliver when it mattered most. He was a huge part of our offense from start to finish. On top of all that, he’s just an awesome person. Respect and integrity are part of who he is, and a great example of what we want our team culture to look like. A real pillar for our team all year.”
Ramier came to UNB Saint John after a strong high school career at Leo Hayes High School in Fredericton and slid right into the mix as an elite setter at this level. Filling the void of graduated setter Liam McLellan, Ramier played the bulk of the sets for the Seawolves this year and found chemistry with teammates early and often as he finished the season leading the ACAA in assists. He also finished second on the team in digs, with 127.
“He was a huge pickup for us this year and made an impact right away,” added Karatzios about his first-year setter. “Even though it’s his first season, he plays like he’s been in the league for a few years. Always calm, steady, and totally composed. On top of that, he’s one of our best servers, finishing with 23 aces, good for 4th in the league. What really stands out is he's attitude. He never loses his cool, never argues with officials, and always shows respect to everyone on the court. He’s the kind of player any team would want and a great example for the league.”
The Seawolves will look to punch their ticket to the ACAA finals as they face the host St. Thomas University Tommies at 4:30pm. Fans who aren’t on site at the Lady Beaverbrook Gymnasium can watch on acaa.tv.