Seven of our CAPS girls were  fortunate enough to attend an advanced hitting clinic at St. Pius X High School on Wednesday evening with former Canadian National Team member Paul Gratton.  Still recognized as one of the world's most feared power hitters, Mr. Gratton helped the girls with everything from hitting approach and finish to setter/hitter timing at the middle position.

"Having Paul come out and give some individual high-end instruction to these girls is a real windfall," commented Coach Cathy O'Doherty.  "You can never get enough coaching in the fine points of power hitting and these girls have really benefitted from his advice.  Having such a legend here in the gym with us is a real honour."

Gratton played for Canada from 1977-1985 and helped Canada place 4th at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games (Canada's best finish ever).  After 1985, Gratton travelled to Europe to play professionally, a decision that saw him play in France, Italy and Japan.  A frequent All-Star and MVP, he was instrumental in helping his teams win a number of club championships and two silver medals at European Championships.  Upon his retirement from professional volleyball, Gratton opened the doors of his own agency called Simgratton Inc., and now represents most Canadian volleyball athletes playing professionally in Europe.  In 1993, he was inducted to the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame, the first volleyball player ever to receive this honour.  Gratton remains an active player within the Ottawa-Carleton Volleyball League.