2024 Annual Awards & Hall of Fame Banquet

In the heart of Manitoba, a young girl named Lorriann Sawatzky discovered her love for volleyball. From the moment she first touched the ball, it was clear that she was destined for greatness on the court. Her journey began in the late 1980s, as she joined the U of W Juvenile club team. With determination in her heart and a fierce competitive spirit, Lorriann led her team to a remarkable victory at the national championships in 1988.

Fuelled by her early success, Lorriann continued to elevate her game, joining the U of M Juvenile team the following year. Once again, she showcased her talent on the national stage, guiding her team to another championship title in 1989. But Lorriann was just getting started. In 1990, as a member of the U of M Junior team, she solidified her status as a volleyball prodigy, clinching yet another national title and leaving a lasting impression on the sport.

Lorriann’s excellence wasn’t confined to the indoor court. In 1990, she represented Manitoba at the Western Canada Games, contributing to her team’s gold medal victory. But it was her partnership with Lisa Kachkowsky in beach volleyball that truly showcased her versatility. Together, they dominated the Manitoba circuit, claiming championship titles and podium finishes at prestigious events across the country.

As Lorriann’s high school career came to an end, accolades poured in, recognizing her as Manitoba’s High School Player of the Year and a Scholar Athlete. Her transition to collegiate volleyball was seamless, as she joined the U of M Women’s Volleyball team in 1990. Over the next five years, Lorriann etched her name in the history books, securing consecutive CIAU National Championship Gold Medals (1990-1991 & 1991-1992). She then went on to win CIAU National Championship Bronze medals in 1992-1993, 1993-1994, and 1994-1995.

Lorriann went on to win countless individual awards and have numerous individual stats records during her time at the University of Manitoba:

• 1991
  • Cheryl Cable Award; Manitoba Jr. Player of the Year
• 1991/92
  • GPAC Second Team All Star
• 1992/93
  • GPAC First Team All Star
  • Second Team All Canadian
• 1993/94
  • GPAC First Team All-Star
  • First team All Canadian
  • Inaugural TSN Award Winner; top player in the country combing academics, athletic and community service
  • University of Manitoba Female Athlete of the Year
• 1994/95
  • GPAC MVP
  • CIAU Player of the Year
  • University of Manitoba Female Athlete of the Year
• 1990 – 1995
  • Academic All Canadian

• Individual Season Records 
  • Most attempts – 2077 (1993-94, first all-time)
  • Most kills – 718 (1993-94, first all-time)
  • Most aces – 135 (1994-95, first all-time)
• Career Stats / Program Records
  • Kills – 2569 (first all-time)
  • Aces – 382 (first all-time)
  • Attempts – 7107 (first all-time)
  • Digs – 2293 (second all-time)

But Lorriann’s impact extended beyond the court. She was a leader both on and off the volleyball court, embodying the values of sportsmanship, dedication, and teamwork. Her exemplary performance earned her recognition as an Academic All-Canadian, showcasing her commitment to excellence in both academics and athletics.

After her collegiate career, Lorriann’s talent caught the attention of national team selectors, leading to her role as co-captain of the Canadian FISU Games team in 1995. Her journey continued overseas, where she spent six successful seasons playing professionally in Europe, further cementing her legacy as one of Canada’s volleyball greats.

Today, Lorriann Sawatzky Ludwig’s name is synonymous with volleyball excellence. Her journey from a young girl with a passion for the sport to a Hall of Fame athlete is a testament to her unwavering determination, relentless work ethic, and boundless talent. Lorriann continues to coach within Manitoba to sharing her knowledge and expertise.