Kodiaks MVB adds LCI stand-out Folden

May 28, 2020 - Lethbridge College Kodiaks men’s volleyball head coach Greg Gibos has once again dipped into southern Alberta’s talent pool, announcing the commitment of local stand-out Tanner Folden for the 2020-21 season.

A dynamic 6’3” middle blocker, Folden has been key to the success of the LCI Rams volleyball program over the past several seasons. He led the Rams to three consecutive zone championships and two provincial bronze medals, while also being recognized as a Southern Alberta High School Volleyball League all-star.

He also has experienced success at the club level, guiding his Lethbridge Volleyball Club U17 team to a provincial silver medal and national quarterfinal appearance in 2019.

“Tanner is an extremely powerful and explosive athlete,” says Gibos. “He was consistently one of the best middle blockers in the province and was a provincial team invite during his youth career. We know he’s going to accomplish some great things during his time at Lethbridge College.”

For Gibos, the combination of Folden’s raw talent and tireless work ethic is a dangerous combo.

“Definitely the strongest asset that Tanner brings to our program is his motor and desire to get better,” says Gibos. “He’s a passionate, motivated guy and this shows every time he plays. He’s someone who never backs down and will bring some hard-nosed energy to our program.”

Having already shown a fierce dedication to improvement, Gibos knows from experience that Folden will do whatever it takes to get his game to the next level. 

“Tanner has a strong passion to get better. He would attend all the summer camps and open gyms we would hold, and this speaks to his dedication to his sport and craft,” describes Gibos. “It’s not easy to sacrifice summer nights as a high school student, but Tanner would always be in our gym. He’s committed to this program and he’s committed to making himself the best athlete he can be. What more can you ask for in a young man?” 

Folden says committing to play post-secondary for the Kodiaks is the realization of a goal he’s worked hard to achieve.

“It’s a dream come true,” says Folden. “I’ve been able to watch games, participate in camps and be around the team. In my mind, there’s no better place to be then Lethbridge College for my post-secondary journey.”

The Kodiaks have built a strong reputation among volleyball circles, something certainly not lost on their newest recruit.

“This program is like a family and I couldn’t be happier to be joining them in September,” says Folden.

After overseeing his team to their first CCAA nationals appearance last season, Gibos is excited to watch the program continue to grow.

“Tanner is another high-level athlete who’s going to come here and make this program better,” says Gibos. “His constant ability to push others around him will only make us a stronger program. We are always excited to add local talent, and we know he’s committed to growing and developing our sport in southern Alberta.“

On the academic side, Folden will enroll in Lethbridge College’s General Arts and Science program with a focus on pursuing a career in the medical field.

While uncertainty remains surrounding the 2020-21 ACAC schedule due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Kodiaks are hopeful for an October start to the regular season.