MVB: Alberta earns edge in preseason poll

CALGARY - The drama that is Canada West men's volleyball is set to return for another season of blink-and-you-miss-it action. With rivalries renewed, the country's top teams will begin their battle for the conference title Friday.

Ahead of tip-off for the 2022-23 season, CW coaches have selected Alberta as the favourite to hoist the Costa Chrysanthou Trophy. The team earned 140 points in the poll with eight first-place votes. The defending U SPORTS national champions boasted the conference's top offence in 2021-22 and will see their strong hitting core return this season. They'll be looking to power their way to their 14th CW title and their first since 2014-15.

The Trinity Western Spartans finished close behind the Bears with 136 points and four first-place votes. The Spartans had a nearly-perfect conference record last season before going on to win their third-straight CW title. Despite losing a couple key players, the team's returning stars will be helped by their roster depth as they look to remain on top of Canada West.

Rounding out the top three are the UBC Thunderbirds, a team hungry for their first Canada West title since 1986. The Thunderbirds have fielded strong programs, last winning a U SPORTS championship in 2018. They'll be looking to make a statement this year with several strong recruits and a returning core.

It all starts Friday, with a full slate of games. The top three vote-getters will have the energy of their home fans behind them as they look to start their seasons with a bang. For the complete schedule, click here.

MEN'S VOLLEYBALL ON CANADA WEST TV

Every men's volleyball game will be available live and on demand this season exclusively on Canada West TV – the official streaming home of the conference. To purchase your pass, click here. 

2022-23 CW MVB PRESEASON COACHES POLL

Team - Points (First-place votes)

Click here for your full team-by-team preview.