Volleyball Canada – Marcello Abbondanza has resigned as head coach of the Canadian National Women’s Team effective immediately.

Abbondanza, who joined the team in May 2017, helped guide the women’s team to World Championship qualification and a bronze medal at the Women’s Pan Am Cup this past summer. The team went on to finish 18th at the FIVB World Championship in Japan this fall.

“I would like to thank Volleyball Canada and all the cooperation we received at the training centre in Richmond (British Columbia),” said Abbondanza. “Most of all, I would like to thank the players for their effort on the court. I wish the team success in the future.”

Abbondanza, who is currently based in Poland with Chemik Police – a pro team that plays in the Orlen Liga – cites his young and growing family (based in Europe) as a key reason for his departure, as well as other professional commitments.

Volleyball Canada is working on a staffing plan for the women’s team, and will be releasing more information when the details are finalized.    

“The team has made progress in the last two seasons, and we thank Marcello for his contribution and focus on improvement on the court,” said Julien Boucher, indoor high performance director for Volleyball Canada. “We now have time before the international season begins next year to review our staffing, and undergo the process of finding the right fit for the women’s program moving forward.”

Volleyball Canada media contact:
Jackie Skender jskender@volleyball.ca
Mobile: 613-794-7676