From the sandy beaches of the Cayman Islands to the competitive courts of the Atlantic Collegiate Athletic Association (ACAA), Maryn and Megan McCoombs have carved out a unique and inspiring volleyball journey. Their paths, though intertwined, have been shaped by individual ambition, perseverance, and a shared love for the sport.
Maryn’s Story: The Trailblazer
Maryn McCoombs, a standout left-side hitter for the Dalhousie Rams—and a self-proclaimed wannabe libero—first discovered her love for volleyball in Grade 9 in the Cayman Islands. Her introduction to the sport came in an unconventional way: after volunteering at a NORCECA international beach volleyball tournament, she transitioned from beach volleyball to indoor, an unusual path that few athletes take.
Her rapid development in the sport was fueled by playing with older, more experienced athletes. However, the lack of consistent coaching in Cayman led her to seek greater opportunities. In Grade 11, after attending Cougar Camp in Nova Scotia, she decided she didn’t want to return to Cayman and, with her mother’s unwavering support, moved to Truro to pursue her volleyball dreams. Living with her grandfather, she attended Cobequid Educational Centre (CEC) and played under Coach Carrie Peck, who became a guiding force in her career and life.
Despite initially attending Saint Mary’s University (SMU) after high school, Maryn quickly realized how much she missed volleyball. A single text from her mother to Coach Carrie led to her joining the Dalhousie Rams, where she played a crucial role in establishing a competitive roster for the team.
Her journey hasn’t been without challenges. She tore her ACL in the summer of her first year, forcing her to sit out her second season. However, the experience gave her a new perspective on the game, deepening her appreciation for the sport and her teammates.
Some of her favorite volleyball memories include major upsets against top teams like Holland College, UNBSJ, and UKC, as well as competing at the NORCECA tournament, where she faced world-class players like Sarah Pavan. Looking ahead, Maryn sees herself continuing to represent Cayman internationally or possibly coaching in Canada.
Megan’s Story: The Energetic Force
Megan McCoombs, a second-year middle blocker for the Rams, took a different route to the sport. Though she played volleyball in Cayman, she wasn’t fully committed until Grade 10, when she moved to Truro, following in her sister’s footsteps. Living with their grandfather, she played JV at CEC before making the varsity squad for Grades 11 and 12 under the coaching of Giles Boudreau, Bob Piers, and Carrie Peck.
Megan faced a pivotal decision after high school: she had been considering attending the University of Ottawa for biomedical engineering, but a coin flip determined her fate. When the coin landed on Ottawa, it didn’t feel right—so she chose Dal AC, where she could play under Coach Carrie and with her sister.
Her volleyball journey has been shaped by the unwavering support of her parents, her grandfather, and key mentors, including strength and conditioning coach Derek Weber. Though she started as a quieter player, Megan’s confidence and energy exploded in her senior years of high school, turning her into one of the loudest and most passionate players on the court. She was named captain of her club team, earned a spot on Team Nova Scotia for the Canada Cup, and developed significantly as a beach volleyball player under the guidance of Coach Trevor Theroulde.
Megan’s favorite volleyball moments aren’t just about wins and losses—they’re about the bonds she’s formed with teammates. From bus trips filled with laughter to high-energy games, the connections she’s made through the sport are what she cherishes most. As she prepares to transition to Dalhousie Halifax next year to complete her engineering degree, she is grateful for the opportunity to play beyond high school and to have shared the experience with Maryn.
The McCoombs Sisterhood on the Court
Playing together at Dal AC has been a defining experience for both sisters. While they didn’t always get along growing up, volleyball has strengthened their bond. Maryn’s disciplined, passionate approach to the game balances Megan’s energetic and spontaneous style, creating a dynamic that fuels their competitive drive.
Though they have their occasional sibling moments, their connection on the court is undeniable. Megan credits Maryn’s example for pushing her to be a better athlete, while Maryn admires Megan’s intensity and heart. Their shared experience of living, training, and competing together has been a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity—one that neither of them takes for granted.
Coach Carrie Peck’s Perspective: Mentoring Two Exceptional Athletes
Coach Carrie Peck has had the unique experience of coaching both sisters from their high school years at CEC to their time with the Rams. She describes Maryn as a hardworking, determined leader who always gives 100% effort, both on and off the court. Her dedication to excellence and her ability to lift up her teammates have been instrumental in the team’s success.
Megan, on the other hand, is the team’s energetic force. Her enthusiasm is contagious, and her presence is impossible to miss—especially with her creative introduction of recorders into the Rams’ cheering squad. Beyond her vocal support, Megan’s work ethic and drive to improve make her a key player on the team.
For Coach Carrie, coaching the McCoombs sisters has been more than just a professional experience—it has been a personal journey. “They are more than just athletes; they are leaders, mentors, and role models. To me, they are family, and the bond we have formed will last beyond their time at Dal AC. While I will truly miss them on and off the court, I know they will go on to achieve great things, and I can’t wait to see what’s next for them.”
A Lasting Legacy
Maryn and Megan McCoombs have left an undeniable mark on the Dal AC Rams volleyball program. Their journeys, though different, share common themes of resilience, passion, and an unwavering love for the game. Whether it’s through future international representation, coaching, or simply continuing to grow as athletes and individuals, their impact will be felt for years to come.
As they prepare for their next chapters, one thing is certain: once a Ram, always a Ram.