Mohawk women’s volleyball announces 2026 recruiting class

HAMILTON, Ont. – Mohawk Mountaineers women's volleyball head coach Nicholas Petrella has announced his first recruiting class as head coach of the program.

The five recruits add depth across multiple positions and complement a roster that features a core of returning players.

2026-27 WOMEN'S VOLLEYBALL RECRUITING CLASS

Ashley Sullivan
Hometown: Brandon, MB.
High School: Vincent Massey High School
Position: Middle
Program: Health, Wellness & Fitness
Club Team: Brandon Volleyball Club

What is one interesting fact about you?
"I play three sports (volleyball, basketball and softball)."

Lia D'Archi
Hometown: Grimsby, Ont.
High School: West Niagara Secondary School
Position: Libero
Program: General Arts & Science
Club Team: Niagara Rapids

Why did you choose Mohawk?
"I chose Mohawk because it offers a strong balance between academics and athletics. It has programs that match my academic interests, while also providing competitive sports opportunities. This allows me to grow both as a student and as an athlete, and prepares me for my future goals."

Amina Shaikh
Hometown: Orono, Ont.
High School: St. Stephen Catholic Secondary
Position: Libero / Left Side
Program: Health, Wellness & Fitness
Club Team: Peterborough Thunder

Why did you choose Mohawk?
"I chose Mohawk College because of the high standard and work ethic set by the people running their women's volleyball program, and the competitiveness of the girls on the team, in addition to Mohawk's Health, Wellness and Fitness program.

Jaelyn Cameron
Hometown: Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont.
High School: Eden High School
Position: Right Side
Program: Early Childhood Education
Club Team: Milton Edge

What is your ultimate goal as a post-secondary student-athlete?
"I want to experience playing at the collegiate level, to get stronger and elevate my overall performance and game."

Mekiah Zylstra
Hometown: Waterdown, Ont.
High School: Hamilton District Christian High
Position: Middle Blocker / Outside Hitter
Program: Pre-Health
Club Team: Smash Nitro

Notable Career Highlights:

2x OVA Award of Excellence
2023 Smash Nitro Most Improved Player
2025 Smash Nitro Coaches Award
HWDSB All-Star (2023-2025)
Competed at OFSAA in 2025

Prospective student-athletes interested in joining the Mohawk women's volleyball program can contact head coach Nicholas Petrella at nicholas.petrella@mohawkcollege.ca. Tryout dates for full-time Mohawk students will be announced in the summer.

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MEDIA CONTACT:
Satbir Singh
Manager, Sports Marketing, Communications & Fan Engagement
satbir.sing6@mohawkcollege.ca

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