Kaminski’s Olympic Dream Still Alive

After defeating the Dominican Republic in their first game, followed by Peurto Rico, and a huge upset over Cuba, Team Canada and Chatham’s Adam Kaminski’s Olympic dream are still alive.

With the Summer Olympics in London, England only months away, nation’s across the globe are currently playing in qualifying tournaments to earn their spot at the Olympics.

Canada, which features Middle Adam Kaminski of Chatham, is the 18th ranked country in the world and is currently playing at the NORCECA volleyball qualifier tournament in Long Beach, California.

Kaminski has played professionally in Europe for years after finishing his University playing career at the University of Alberta.

In their opening game, Canada handed the Dominican Republic a decided loss, winning three straight games 25-21, 25-13, 25-15.

“There was a little bit of nervousness at the start but the guys stayed calm,” Canadian head coach Glenn Hoag said on the Volleyball Canada website following the team’s first win.

“It was very encouraging for our first game together. It’s not only the result but it’s the way we won today that really gives the guys a lot of confidence.”

The Dominican Republic was the weakest team in Canada’s pool ranked 46th in the world.

Facing Puerto Rico in their second game, Canada was expecting much stiffer competition against the 17th ranked team, but Canada pulled off another win 25-19, 25-20, 25-13.

In their third round robin game, Canada and Kaminski upset 5th ranked Cuba 25-21, 25-17, 25-21 to stay perfect in the round robin and finish first in their pool.

Canada now receives a bye to Friday’s semi-final, meaning the will automatically have a shot for at least a bronze medal in the tournament.