2026 ACAC Women's Volleyball Coaches of the Year
Edmonton, AB (February 26, 2026) –
NORTH WOMEN'S VOLLEYBALL COACH OF THE YEAR, STEVE ENRIGHT:
The Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) is proud to announce Steve Enright of the University of Alberta Augustana Vikings has been named the 2026 ACAC North Women’s Volleyball Coach of the Year.
Coach Enright took the reins as head coach of the Augustana Vikings in 2019 and has since established himself as one of the premier leaders in collegiate volleyball. Over the past seven seasons, Enright’s impact has been felt at every level of the program, earning him three Coach of the Year awards, including two nominations for CCAA Coach of the Year—recognition that reflects both his competitive success and the respect he commands across the country.
Under Enright’s guidance, the Women’s Volleyball program has reached new heights. The Vikings have qualified for two CCAA National Championships, finishing as ACAC silver medalists in both appearances, and have remained a consistent contender within the conference. Year after year, Enright has led his teams to ACAC Championship appearances, setting a standard of excellence defined by preparation, resilience, and a commitment to continual growth.
Beyond the wins and accolades, Enright has fostered a culture centered on athlete development, accountability, and pride in the program. His ability to build competitive teams while mentoring student-athletes on and off the court has been a cornerstone of the Vikings’ sustained success. With a proven track record and a clear vision for the future, Enright is poised to continue guiding the Augustana Vikings toward championship-level performances for years to come.
“Steve's success with the Women's Volleyball program at Augustana has positioned them to be known as one of the top women's volleyball programs within the country” says Business and Operations Coordinator of the Vikings, David Ritz. “Steve's mindful recruitment, technical knowledge of the game, and care for his student-athletes has earned him consideration as top coach within the ACAC and CCAA.”
This prestigious award will be recognized at the 2026 ACAC Women’s Volleyball Championship hosted by the Augustana Vikings in Camrose, AB.
SOUTH WOMEN'S VOLLEYBALL COACH OF THE YEAR, TALBOT WALTON:
The Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) is proud to announce Talbot Walton of the Red Deer Queens has been named the 2026 ACAC South Division Women's Volleyball Coach of the Year.
“I want to congratulate Talbot on receiving this recognition,” says Randy Stewart, Manager, Athletics and Student Life, Red Deer Polytechnic. “Talbot’s dedication, leadership and ability to elevate his student-athletes has been exceptional, and earning the ACAC Women’s Volleyball South Coach of the Year is a well‑deserved recognition. He continues to set a standard of excellence for our program, both on and off the court. We’re incredibly proud of Talbot’s achievements and the culture of growth he inspires in the Queens.”
With guidance from Coach Walton, the Red Deer Polytechnic Queens Volleyball team is having an impressive campaign, achieving a 17-2 regular season record.
After a standout playing career with Red Deer Polytechnic and the University of Alberta, Walton took the helm of the Queens Volleyball program in 2000. Before joining the Queens, he coached with the University of Alberta Pandas and Golden Bears, NAVC, The King’s University, Team Alberta, the Central Alberta Kings Club and the RDP Kings, contributing to multiple provincial and national championship teams along the way.
Since becoming head coach, Talbot has led the Queens to more than 315 ACAC wins, secured two Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) National Championships, four ACAC Championships and numerous conference and national medals. He previously earned five ACAC Coach of the Year awards along with a CCAA Coach of the Year honour, cementing his legacy as one of the most accomplished coaches in the conference.
The ACAC Women’s Volleyball Awards were recognized at the ACAC Women’s Volleyball Championship Banquet and Awards. The championship event will be held at the University of Alberta Augustana from February 27-March 1, 2026.
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About the ACAC: The ACAC is the governing body for intercollegiate athletics in Alberta. Its mission is to provide competitive collegiate sport experiences, promote academic achievement and be a leader of sport development in Canada.
For more information on the ACAC, please visit our website: www.acac.ab.ca
For additional information, contact:
Mark Kosak, Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference
Chief Executive Officer
403-875-7329
markk@acac.ab.ca
Emily Peterson, Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference
Marketing & Communications Coordinator
emilyp@acac.ab.ca