Axewomen add libero Paige Hanzel to 2025 recruitment class

The Acadia Axewomen volleyball team has added Alberta libero Paige Hanzel to its roster for the 2025-26 season.

Hanzel, from St. Albert, Alta., played at Western Canada High School, where she helped lead her team to a 4A provincial championship. She also played club volleyball with Canuck Volleyball Club, winning three consecutive provincial titles and placing fourth nationally three years in a row. Hanzel has represented Alberta at high-performance camps and the Canada Cup, further developing her defensive skills and agility.

Axewomen head coach Michelle Wood praised Hanzel’s skills.

“Paige is a student of the game and a natural leader,” Wood said. “Her tactical awareness and efficient movements enable her success in the backcourt. Her touch on the ball and ability to control hard-driven balls is impressive. As a former libero, I’m very eager to work with Paige.”

Hanzel said she is excited to join Acadia’s program.

“I loved the coaches, the girls and the campus at Acadia. It’s the perfect environment,” Hanzel said. “I’m really looking forward to playing with the girls I met and being coached by Michelle and Vanessa.”

Hanzel’s commitment marks another step forward for the Axewomen, with her experience and defensive skill expected to strengthen the team’s backcourt.