This summer, NACTV Summer Student Keira McKay sat down with Hanna and Kyra Kasprick, the passionate organizers and coaches behind Neepawa’s Volleyball Summer Camp. Now in its second year, the camp has grown significantly, thanks to the sisters’ dedication and a new partnership with Volleyball Manitoba, the non-profit organization that oversees the sport across the province.

“We organize and coach the camp, and this year we’ve partnered with Volleyball Manitoba,” Hanna explained. “Along with Heather Douglas, we run three sessions for different age groups: 12–13, 14–15, and 16–17 years old.”

Both sisters grew up in Neepawa and played volleyball throughout high school and at the club level. After transitioning into coaching three years ago, they quickly recognized a gap in accessible sports programming for teens in rural areas.

“Growing up here, there wasn’t much for teens in terms of sports programs—we always had to travel to Brandon or Winnipeg for skill development,” Kyra shared. “We wanted to create something local that gets youth off screens, into a social and active environment where they can learn new skills and connect with each other.”

The results have already been encouraging. Participation has doubled since the camp’s inaugural year, and the sisters are eager to see it continue.

“We’re really excited to bring the camp back and hope to keep it going for years to come,” Hanna said. “It’s so important to give rural youth the same opportunities that are available in the cities.”

Beyond volleyball, the camp is also fostering leadership—particularly for young women in sports.

“By creating and leading programs like this, we hope to inspire other young people to step up and take on leadership roles,” Kyra added. “Thank you for giving us the space to share and promote this positive sports program. It’s making a real difference in our community.”

The Kasprick sisters’ message is clear: with initiative, passion, and community support, rural youth can thrive, develop their skills, and step confidently into leadership roles.