Adaptation is one of many traits required to survive.
Cochrane volleyball player Caleb Hickok is counting on his adaptability to dig out a new home at the next level.
Upon graduation from Cochrane High in 2012, Hickok joined the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) Trojans men’s volleyball team in Calgary, where he was a setter. Following two SAIT seasons, the 20-year-old is now at University of Manitoba, digging out balls at the libero position (defence) for the Bisons.
As the levels have elevated, so have the demands on Hickok’s adaptability. If it’s versatility the Bisons need, Hickok’s bringing it to the gym.
All in an effort to be a good team player.
“He’s a very intelligent, hard-working individual and he can play a variety of positions,” enthuses Bisons men’s volleyball head coach Garth Pischke of the 6-foot, 175-pound Cochrane product. “He’s spending most of his time in the libero defensive-specialist role this year for us. It’s just his first year with us so he’s taken a step up from the college ranks to the university ranks, which is quite a bit higher-caliber of volleyball. So he’s still learning some things and spending some time in that defensive-specialist role.”
It’s an adjustment Hickok is embracing to ensure everyone knows he belongs at the next level.
“When I was at Cochrane High and all throughout my club play and at SAIT, I was always a setter,” Hickok relates. “I’d never played libero before, so I came here and started making that transition. I’m still kind of playing both and doing whatever the coach needs me to do.”
Along with the position adjustment, there is also a jump in the level of play at the Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS) level.
“Going from college level to university level is a bit of an adjustment,” Hickok says, playing for a Bisons team third in CIS Canada West standings with a 10-2 record. “SAIT is still a high level of play. I thought it really got me ready for CIS level. Everyone’s a bit bigger, a bit stronger in general, especially the Canada West Conference. It’s really, really strong. It’s been an adjustment but it’s been a fun adjustment and always fun to play against the best people in the country.”
Pischke likes what he sees so far in Hickok’s inaugural Bisons season.
“His court sense is just very good. His competitive spirit is outstanding,” Pischke surmises. “He plays to win. If he’s not the hardest, he’s one of the hardest-working guys on our team in practices. He’s certainly a pleasure to have around.”
All in an effort to adapt to the next level.
