Cougars Volleyball Gain Neelin Duo

Taylor Cox and Brie Mulligan have committed to the Cougar women’s volleyball team.

Cox and Mulligan grew up together attending École Harrison School in elementary and now École Secondaire Neelin High School.

Cox is a 5’10 outside hitter. Although left side is her preference, Cox is a versatile player and has experience as a middle and right side as well. She was a AAA high school graduating all-star with the Neelin Spartans and received accolades in her Junior Varsity years as well, earning the Coaches’ Award and Player of the Match at provincials.

“Taylor has shown marked improvement in each of her four years at Neelin and with the Cats Club,” said Cougars coach Kevin Neufeld. “Taylor can play a variety of positions and has the ability to be an impact player for the Cougars.”

Mulligan is a 5’7 setter, playing for the same teams alongside Cox. She fell in love with the sport at a young age, starting in camps at ten years old. Mulligan was named Most Valuable Player on both her freshman and junior varsity teams at Neelin. She was selected an All-Star at the MHSAA AAA Junior varsity provincials as well as a graduating All-Star this past season.

“I understand the offensive system of the game, who to set in which situations to help my team to succeed,” said Mulligan. “Volleyball makes me happy. I am always looking to grow by setting and achieving goals and I love being in the gym!”

Both Cox and Mulligan are bilingual, receiving French diplomas at the end of the school year and each maintain averages north of 90 per cent, ensuring their spot on the Neelin honor roll.

Cox has a knack for writing and is a member of the Neelin Journal Club, with two articles published in the local Brandon Sun newspaper. She’s involved in many facets of the Brandon community, raising money for local charities like Samaritan House, volunteering for the MCC thrift shop and participating in community clean up initiatives.

“Coach Neufeld really influenced my decision to become a part of the Cougars as well as my parents,” said Cox. “I am positive, I work hard and I am always open to change and improvement.”

Mulligan is also well integrated into the Brandon community, volunteering for Christmas Cheer each year, community respite and the Life Skills program at Neelin.

“Brie is a great addition for next year in that ever-demanding position of setter,” said coach Neufeld. “She is one of the top setters in the province with a real desire to learn at the next level. With additional strength and training she will have a tremendous impact on the team.”

Cox has strong family ties to the college. Her father, Brian Cox, teaches in the faculty of business and her aunt, Julie Muller, is the Director of Human Resources and an alumni of the college and Cougars volleyball program. Cox will be taking the college’s Medical Administration program in the fall.

Mulligan will be taking the Social Service Worker program in the fall with the intent to graduate and continue post-secondary training in Education.