Snyder-Kowbel Brings Versatility to Cougars Volleyball

Elle Snyder-Kowbel, a 5’11 left-side/middle has committed to the Cougar women’s volleyball team.

Snyder-Kowbel is a local talent with size, experience and versatility. She attends Vincent Massey High School in Brandon where she competed for the Vikings, a strong team this past season. The team won the city championship, moving on to the AAAA Provincials, where they were ranked 8^th and ultimately lost out in the first round. Snyder-Kowbel was captain of the Vikings this past season and was selected as a MHSAA AAAA Graduating All-Star. She is the third player from coach Neufeld’s U18 Cats Club team who has committed to the Cougars, alongside Brie Mulligan and Taylor Cox.

“When I found out my current club coach, Kevin Neufeld, was the new Cougars coach, my decision to join the team was easy,” said Snyder-Kowbel. “I have a positive mindset both on and off the court. I consider myself a leader and lead by example. Kevin has taught me so much already and I can’t wait to learn more.”

A former dancer, Snyder-Kowbel turned to volleyball in grade seven after she fell in love with the team dynamic. From then on, she played school and club volleyball, and has experience as both a left side and a middle blocker.

“Elle has a very unique skill set where she can play middle, outside hitter and at the libero position,” said Cougars coach, Kevin Neufeld. “This diversity will be of great value to the team and we are pleased to have her join the program.”

Snyder-Kowbel has received a medal for academic achievement at Vincent Massey each year in high school. She is on track now to graduate with honours. She has family ties to the agricultural industry that has spurred an interest in the sector, and she will be taking the college’s Agribusiness program in the fall.

“My grandfather farmed for 40 years and I saw how rewarding working in agriculture can be,” she said. “My dad also works in Ag and after having worked with him this past summer, it gave me the opportunity to learn more and have an appreciation for the industry.”