John Paul II Collegiate senior, Declan Mercer will trade his blue and gold Crusaders' threads for the dark green of Lakeland College next season. (Submitted photo/Declan Mercer)

By Martin Martinson

Joining the Rustlers

Volleyball standout, Mercer commits to Lakeland College

May 17, 2022 | 5:15 PM

From the time he first strapped on the knee pads with Battlefords Volleyball Club in the sixth grade, North Battleford’s Declan Mercer has been working towards his goal of one day playing at the collegiate level.

It is a dream that following years of hard work, is now set to be realized this fall, with Mercer’s recent commitment to the Lakeland College Rustlers for the fall of 2022.

One of the top college volleyball programs in the ACAC (Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference), Mercer said he’s looking forward to the opportunity ahead to join the Rustlers next season.

“I can’t wait, I’m really looking forward to it,” Mercer said. “I had a few offers, but I stuck with Lakeland because of how close it is to home. Family can come watch games, and I can do my full education there, so I can use all my five years of eligibility. Those were the two main things for me.”

Declan Mercer (#10 purple) in action with BVC. (Submitted photo/Declan Mercer)

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Growing up with a natural passion for athletics, Mercer played virtually any sport available through much of his early years, before honing in on his main interests of volleyball and basketball during his high school years.

Establishing himself as an integral piece at middle blocker with both his BVC team and JPII Crusaders squad over the the last four years, Mercer brings big-game experience with him as well to the next level.

In addition to winning a provincial gold medal (2019) and two silvers (2018, 2022) with his club team, Mercer also took home a provincial silver with the school team his Grade 10 year, before capping his high school career with provincial gold this year, helping lead JPII’s senior boys to their first in 21 years.

Shelly Fransoo who’s coached Mercer on the Crusaders since his time as a junior, said he has all the tools to find success at the next level.

“He’s a strong athlete, so he brings a power to the court and it’s definitely his strength that stands out,” Fransoo said. “He’s a tall guy too, so when he gets up there for a block it’s going straight down there’s no doubt about it, and his strength is definitely noticeable out there.”

Off the court, Mercer will pursue an education degree.

The Lakeland Rustlers finished fourth in the North Division with a 9-7 record this year in ACAC play.

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Martin.Martinson@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @MartyMartyPxP1