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About Us

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Founder and Volleyball Coach 
Iuliia Pakhomenko

As a coach with a rich background in volleyball, I bring a unique perspective to the court. My journey started as a player, where I had the privilege of competing professionally in Ukraine, as well as at the NCAA level in the USA and USport Canada. These experiences taught me the value of hard work, discipline, and adapting to different playing styles. I have seen firsthand what it takes to compete at the highest levels, and I'm passionate about passing that knowledge on to my players. 

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​My coaching philosophy blends my years of playing experience with a commitment to developing athletes both on and off the court.  I focus on building strong technical skills, mental toughness, and a deep understanding of the game. Whether coaching beginners or advanced players, my goal is to inspire a love for volleyball while pushing each athlete to achieve their full potential, just as I did during my own playing career. 

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Highlights: Find out more

Volleyball Coach 
Rida Erlaliletepe

Rida is a professional volleyball player from Turkey who plays the Outside Hitter position. She has competed in the Turkish professional leagues with clubs including BeÅŸiktaÅŸ JK, Sarıyer Belediyespor, YeÅŸilyurt SK, İlbank, and Çanakkale Belediyespor, while also representing the Turkish National Team during her career. Rida currently competes with the Thompson Rivers WolfPack in Canada West. She brings high-level international playing experience, strong technical knowledge, and a positive coaching approach focused on athlete confidence, discipline, and game development.

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Volleyball Coach 
Maria Dancheva

Maria is a professional volleyball player from Bulgaria who plays the Opposite/Outside Hitter position. She has competed professionally across Europe, including experience in Bulgaria, Kazakhstan, Switzerland, and Canada, and currently plays for the Thompson Rivers WolfPack in Canada West. Maria brings a strong competitive mindset, advanced offensive knowledge, and valuable international experience, helping athletes develop technical skills, court awareness, and confidence in a supportive training environment.

Kateryna Saprykina 
Athletic Performance Coach 

With a strong background in professional volleyball and athletic development, I specialize in helping athletes improve their strength, agility, and overall performance. Combining experience in competitive volleyball with education in CrossFit, Fitness, Gym, and TRX training, I create structured programs focused on performance, injury prevention, and long-term athlete development. I work with athletes of all levels, helping them build confidence, refine skills, and reach their full potential through sport-specific training and conditioning.

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where it all started

Kamloops, BC

Canada 

Located on the traditional lands of the Tk`emlups te Secwepemc within Secwepemcul`ecw, traditional and unceded territory of the Secwepemc

Refund Policy 

At Ulavolley Academy, we understand that schedules and circumstances can change. However, due to limited space in each program and our commitment to planning coaches and facilities in advance, our refund policy is as follows:

  • Full refund (minus a 20% administrative fee) if cancellation is made at least 20 days before the first session.

  • Once sessions have begun, no refunds will be issued for missed classes, injuries, or withdrawals.

  • If a session is canceled by Ulavolley Academy (e.g., gym closure, coach illness, weather), we will reschedule the session or offer a credit/refund for that class.

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