So close to a medal, but an improvement over five years ago.
Former UBCO Heat women’s volleyball student Jennifer Oakes helped lead the Canadian women’s sitting volleyball team to fourth place at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics, an improvement on her seventh place finish in Rio de Janeiro in 2016.
The Canadians, who reached the medal round 2-1 in the round robin game, lost in the game for the bronze medal in four sets against Brazil (25-15, 24-26, 26-24, 25-14). Oakes was a key performer in the team’s final game, posting 11 points.
Overall, Oakes put in an excellent performance for Team Canada on their second Paralympics appearance. She finished 15th in the tournament with 41 points and was the fourth-best setter with an average of 4.8 per set.
Despite missing a medal, the team achieved their goal of fighting for a medal, even though they didn’t stay on the podium in the end.
“Our goal at this tournament was a medal game and we did it, but fourth place would never be enough for us,” said Danielle Ellis, team captain. “I believe we came and showed the world that we deserve our place here at the Paralympics and now we are ready to go home and work hard to earn our place on the podium in Paris 2024 . “
– with files from Volleyball Canada
READ MORE: Former UBCO Heat volleyball player makes her second appearance at the Paralympic Games
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