2009-10 OCAA MALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR - RYAN TALSMA

Ryan Talsma, a fourth-year volleyball player for the Redeemer Royals, saved his best season for last. Standing at 6-foot-6, the right side hitter from the volleyball hotbed of Orono, Ont. was named the OCAA men's volleyball player of the year for the first time in his collegiate career and was also honoured for the third time as a CCAA all-Canadian.

A consistent player, Ryan led his team to an OCAA bronze medal on his home court and finished his career at Redeemer as the OCAA's career leader in kills with 719 and total points with 967. He also represented the Royals at the OCAA volleyball all-star game this season in North Bay, Ont.

"Ryan Talsma is a humble leader that never gets bigger than the game," states head coach Wayne Harris. "His leadership, natural gifts and his work ethic have made him one of the most feared players in the OCAA and across the country. Ryan's threat as a big hitter is what makes him such a powerful player, but his defence developed throughout the year into something special."

"He finished eigth in the West (division) in digs and brought his game to a new level, challenging for every single ball on every single play. Ryan's dedication to the team and to the men's volleyball program have taken Royals Volleyball to new heights and established a brand that Redeemer is very proud of."