Can-West Sports Group is thrilled to announce our return to the Transpacific Championship in Honolulu, Hawaii, set for January 18-20. This year, we’re proud to partner with 11 elite athletes from the Lloydminster area, who will represent the group in this prestigious tournament. With a carefully selected team aimed at delivering both talent and depth, we’re excited to see what this squad can achieve on the Hawaiian courts.
“Our goal was to create the most talented and deep team at the tournament,” says Ty Plandowski, head coach and founder of Can-West Sports Group. “I’m excited to get in the gym and work with this talented team. When we sat down to decide who we wanted to invite, we got exactly the 11 athletes we wanted. The size and physicality at the net this team brings is the most exciting thing to me.”
One of the key strengths of this team is its exceptional leadership core, made up of Gavin Tocher, Jory Wagner, and Zander Chambers. These athletes have already proven their talent and dedication on the court, playing pivotal roles for the U16 Rustlers, who recently triumphed in the U16 Sask Provincial Championship. Their experience in high-pressure games and their ability to rally their teammates will be crucial as they prepare to face tough competition in Hawaii.
Gavin, known for his powerful presence on both offense and defense, brings a competitive edge and sets the standard in intensity. Jory’s strategic mind and court awareness make him a natural leader, consistently positioning himself to anticipate plays and support his teammates. Zander rounds out the trio with his unmatched resilience and drive, inspiring others through his work ethic and commitment.
This leadership group not only exemplifies skill but also fosters a team spirit that will be essential in building strong chemistry among the athletes. Each of these leaders will play an instrumental role, both in training sessions and during high-stakes matches in Honolulu, setting the tone for a unified and driven team ready to make a deep run in the tournament.
“Every athlete on this roster will play a pivotal role in pushing us deep into the tournament,” Ty adds. “Our outsides can play across three positions, and our middles are likely the biggest in the tournament, giving us flexibility and strength in any matchup.”
The team will be training together over the next few months to build the chemistry and cohesion needed to compete against some of the best teams in the region. The athletes will arrive in Hawaii on January 15, allowing a couple of days to adjust to the time change, soak in the unique Hawaiian culture, and bond as a team before stepping onto the court.
As Can-West Sports Group, we are committed to offering our athletes opportunities to compete on international stages, grow as individuals, and make lifelong memories. This Hawaii trip is more than just a tournament; it’s an experience that builds character and unity, which will be invaluable to each athlete’s journey.
Stay tuned as we prepare to take on the Transpacific Championship! Follow along for updates, training highlights, and stories from the road as our athletes make us proud.