The men’s volleyball team added a key piece to their 2026-27 roster this week, with the commitment of dynamic right side Wizdom Smith.
The 6’8” playmaker has come a long way in short span of time in his volleyball career. He took the sport up in grade ten, shortly after moving to Winnipeg from Hollow Water First Nation, a population of roughly 2,300, two hours north of Winnipeg.
Originally intent on pursuing basketball, his trajectory changed during his time at Dakota Collegiate, when one of the Lancers’ volleyball coaches caught wind of his athleticism while he was shooting around in the gym. Able to touch the ten-foot high basketball rim, he offered a tease of what he could bring as an attacker in volleyball.
Just two years later, Smith was a can’t miss prospect. He earned SCAC MVP honours, All-Manitoba recognition and a top six ranking in the province as a dominant right side.
Smith was integral in Dakota’s march to the provincial final in his senior year, anchoring a Lancers attack during a two-and-a-half hour marathon win in the SCAC final against Glenlawn. Dakota also topped the Lions in the provincial semi-finals, thanks in part to the tricky, unconventional left-handed attack of Smith, which kept teams off balance.
“I was a very raw talent,” admitted Smith.
“But I did everything I said I was going to do. Obviously I didn’t win the provincial championship, but everything along the way I spoke into existence. It was a really surreal feeling to do that, to be top six in Manitoba. It really felt good.”
After high school, Smith proved his worth in the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) for two years.
He was an immediate difference-maker for Niagra in 2024-25, recording 140 kills while adding 26 blocks, including seven solos against Mohawk in January 11, 2025. On the attack, Smith’s cut shots, and laser-beam accuracy made him a fan favourite. He was recognized at year’s end with an OCAA West Division All-Rookie selection.