Coach Zandra’s extensive coaching background and dedication to developing young athletes shows she has a profound impact on both the Indigenous and volleyball community. Winning gold at the Alberta Indigenous Games is a significant accomplishment, especially given her commitment to empowering Indigenous youth through sport.
Her journey as a player, from competing at the Canada Games to her College experience in British Columbia at Vancouver Island University, also adds a valuable perspective to her coaching. She is aspiring to achieve her “Advanced Development Coach” certification. This shows her commitment to continuous growth and excellence in coaching.
Zandra has a daughter playing for the varsity women’s volleyball team at the University of Guelph, a son who plays Sr. boys basketball at BCI and on the Hamilton Elite AAU team, and a daughter who is on the U16 Hamilton Smash Blaze team.
Her coaching philosophy is to meet players where they are able to acknowledge their individual needs and foster a supportive and trusting environment. Focusing on developing the whole player—both body and mind—promotes skill enhancement, mental resilience, and personal growth. It’s a holistic approach that can lead to long-term success both in sports and in life.
