Cisco Farrero of the College of the Rockies has been named the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) Men’s Volleyball Coach of the Year.

Farrero was honoured during the 2024 CCAA Men’s Volleyball National Championship, hosted by Camosun College in Victoria, BC.

Farrero has undertaken a mission to enhance and adapt to the current student-athlete group, adopting a more hands-on approach. His commitment lies in ensuring the team attains both academic and athletic goals, aiming for a positive and unforgettable student-athlete experience. Despite not securing a PACWEST championship title, Farrero’s team has forged a lasting impression, notably with their remarkable eight-week streak at the summit of the CCAA standings.

“In a year full of parity in CCAA Men’s Volleyball, Coach Farrero and his program were the model of consistency. The Avalanche were ranked in the top 5 of the CCAA every week of the season (except one) and spent eight consecutive weeks as the number one ranked team in the county. What makes this more impressive is that Coach Farrero improved his record by three wins from the 2022/23 season despite losing three starters from that campaign as well as the PACWEST player of the year. Coach Farrero’s ability to adapt and create a cohesive unit and finish atop of the competitive PACWEST division is nothing short of commendable. His holistic approach to the student athlete experience focused around academics, development (3 athletes moving onto USport) and performance captures the true essence of a head coach. We are proud to recognize Cisco Farrero of the College of the Rockies Avalanche as the 2023/24 CCAA Men’s Volleyball Coach of the Year,” said Matthew Schnarr, CCAA Volleyball Convenor.

Recognizing the importance of a balanced life, Cisco has instituted weekly study sessions for the team, providing valuable academic support to those in need. His vision for the team centered around embracing the present moment and striving for personal excellence in both academics and athletics.

Cori Andrichuk, College of the Rockies Manager Student Life and Athletics, added, “It has been an incredible season for Cisco and his team. He set out to have the best season yet and worked tirelessly on himself and with his team to reach the goal of being the best in the PACWEST. Congratulations Cisco!”

Other nominees for the CCAA Men’s Volleyball Coach of the Year award were Aaron Schulha, Red Deer Polytechnic, Don Dulder, Canadian Mennonite University, Shawn Reaume, St. Clair College, Rock Picard, Cégep Limoilou and Jason Melanson, Universitè Sainte Anne

The CCAA Men’s Volleyball Coach of the Year recipient receives a customized ring provided by Jostens Canada, the Official Ring Supplier of the CCAA.

Shawn Reaume
St-Clair Saints
OCAA